Can You Get Dental Implants After Having Dentures?

If you currently wear dentures and are considering upgrading to a more permanent solution, you might be wondering: can you get dental implants after having dentures? The answer is yes—many patients successfully transition from traditional dentures to dental implants, often improving their comfort, bite function, and overall quality of life in the process.

Understanding the Transition from Dentures to Dental Implants

Dentures have long been a go-to solution for replacing missing teeth, but they can come with drawbacks—such as instability, dietary restrictions, and gradual jawbone loss. Dental implants offer a more secure and natural-feeling alternative by replacing the tooth root and preserving bone density.

If you’ve been wearing dentures for a while, your jawbone may have experienced some resorption (bone shrinkage), but that doesn’t necessarily disqualify you from getting dental implants. In fact, many patients who wear dentures are great candidates for implants, especially with modern advancements in dental technology and treatment planning.

What to Expect When Switching from Dentures to Implants

1. Evaluation and Planning

Your dentist or oral surgeon will assess your oral health, medical history, and jawbone density. Imaging tools such as 3D scans help determine if your bone is strong enough to support implants.

If there’s significant bone loss, a bone graft may be recommended to rebuild the structure needed for implant placement. In some cases, mini implants or All-on-4 techniques may be viable alternatives.

2. Implant Placement

Once you’re cleared for treatment, the implants are surgically placed into the jawbone. Over the next few months, they fuse with the bone through a process called osseointegration, creating a sturdy foundation.

3. Attaching the Final Prosthetic

After healing, a custom restoration—either a fixed or removable appliance—is attached to the implants. This could involve modifying your current denture or fabricating a completely new one. For more information on this step, you can learn about the differences between fixed vs removable teeth.

Key Benefits of Getting Implants After Dentures

  • Improved stability: No more slipping or shifting while speaking or eating.
  • Preserved bone health: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing further resorption.
  • Long-term durability: Implants can last decades with proper care.
  • Enhanced comfort and confidence: Say goodbye to adhesives and discomfort from poorly fitting dentures.

Are You a Good Candidate?

Even if you’ve had dentures for years, you may still be a candidate for implants. Factors that influence your eligibility include:

  • Sufficient bone structure (or willingness to undergo grafting)
  • Good overall health
  • Healthy gums
  • Commitment to oral hygiene and regular dental visits

A personalized consultation with a dental professional is the best way to determine your specific options and timeline.

Conclusion

Yes, you can get dental implants after having dentures, and many patients find it to be a life-changing improvement. Whether you’re tired of dealing with loose dentures or simply want a more natural-feeling solution, implants may offer the stability and confidence you’re looking for.