Dental Implants vs. Dentures: What’s Right for Your Smile in Butte?

Missing teeth can affect far more than your appearance. They can impact your speech, your ability to chew properly, and even your long-term oral health. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers two primary options to replace missing teeth—dentures and dental implants. At Silver Creek Family Dentistry in Butte, Montana, we provide both solutions and help patients choose the one that best fits their lifestyle, health, and budget.

If you’re unsure about which path to take, this guide breaks down the differences between dentures and dental implants, along with the advantages and limitations of each.

The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth

According to the American College of Prosthodontists, over 36 million Americans are missing all of their teeth, and 120 million are missing at least one tooth. When left untreated, tooth loss can lead to bone loss in the jaw, shifting of remaining teeth, and changes in facial structure over time.

Replacing missing teeth not only improves function and confidence, but also supports overall oral health by maintaining bite alignment and jawbone integrity. Whether you are missing one tooth or an entire arch, restoring your smile can significantly improve your quality of life.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth and the surrounding tissue. They can be complete (replacing all teeth in the upper or lower jaw) or partial (filling gaps where only some teeth are missing). Dentures are typically made from acrylic resin and designed to resemble natural teeth.

Many patients in Butte choose dentures as a more affordable solution to restore function quickly. They can be fitted within weeks and offer cosmetic improvements for individuals with extensive tooth loss.

Pros of Dentures

• Typically lower upfront cost
• Can restore an entire arch of missing teeth
• Non-surgical solution
• Quick treatment timeline

Cons of Dentures

• May feel bulky or unstable
• Require adhesives or adjustments
• Can contribute to bone loss over time
• Need to be removed nightly for cleaning

Although today’s dentures are more natural-looking and better-fitting than ever before, they still sit on top of the gums and do not stimulate the jawbone like natural teeth or implants. As a result, long-term denture wearers may experience gradual jawbone resorption and changes in facial appearance.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. Once the implant fuses with the bone (a process called osseointegration), a dental crown, bridge, or denture can be securely attached to it.

At Silver Creek Family Dentistry, we provide several implant solutions, including single-tooth implants, implant-supported dentures, and All-on-X systems. Implants are considered the gold standard for tooth replacement due to their stability, durability, and ability to preserve jawbone health.

Pros of Dental Implants

• Mimic the look and function of natural teeth
• Stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone loss
• Do not require removal or adhesives
• Long-lasting with proper care (often 20+ years)

Cons of Dental Implants

• Higher upfront cost
• Requires surgery and healing time
• Not always suitable for patients with low bone density or certain medical conditions

Dental implants boast a success rate of over 95 percent, according to the Journal of Oral Implantology. With proper hygiene and regular checkups, they offer a long-term solution that looks, feels, and performs like real teeth.

Comparing Cost and Longevity

While dental implants are typically more expensive initially, they can be more cost-effective over time. Dentures often need to be replaced every 5 to 8 years due to wear or changes in the jaw, while implants—when properly maintained—can last a lifetime.

At Silver Creek Family Dentistry, we believe in helping Butte residents make informed decisions by discussing all costs, insurance benefits, and financing options up front. We offer flexible payment solutions through CareCredit and Cherry Payment Plans, as well as an in-house membership program for patients without dental insurance.

Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between dental implants and dentures depends on several personal and medical factors. Here’s what to consider:

Number of Missing Teeth
For a single missing tooth, a dental implant is often the preferred option. For multiple or full-arch replacements, both implant-supported dentures and traditional dentures are viable.

Bone Health
Implants require a healthy amount of jawbone for support. If bone loss is significant, bone grafting may be necessary before implant placement.

Budget and Insurance
Dentures typically have lower upfront costs and are often partially covered by insurance. Implants may require a higher initial investment but deliver longer-term value.

Lifestyle and Preferences
Patients who want the closest thing to natural teeth in terms of function, aesthetics, and convenience often prefer implants. However, patients who prefer to avoid surgery or need a faster solution may choose dentures.

The Hybrid Option: Implant-Supported Dentures

At our Butte office, many patients choose a hybrid solution: implant-supported dentures. These combine the affordability of dentures with the stability of implants. Using as few as four implants per arch, a denture can be securely attached for a stronger bite, better comfort, and reduced bone loss.

This option eliminates the need for adhesives and prevents slipping or shifting during meals or conversations—common complaints among traditional denture wearers.

Restoring Smiles Across Butte, Montana

Tooth loss doesn’t have to define your smile—or your life. At Silver Creek Family Dentistry, we’re proud to offer customized solutions that help Butte residents reclaim confidence, comfort, and oral health. From start to finish, our experienced team walks you through every step, from consultation and planning to aftercare and maintenance.

Whether you’re leaning toward dentures, implants, or just beginning to explore your options, we’re here to help you make the best choice for your unique smile.