Single Tooth Denture vs. Dental Implant: Which Is Right for You?

Amidst the chaos of a missing tooth, find peace knowing this is just a minor chip in the road to caring for your beautiful smile. Through our Restoration services, we can effectively restore and replace a missing tooth with two different options: a single tooth denture or a dental implant. 

A single tooth denture is removable, while a surgical procedure secures a dental implant to the jawbone. The right treatment isn’t necessarily as simple as picking one over the other. Certain factors can influence this decision: 

• The location of the missing tooth (or teeth)
• Oral health status 
• Budget 
• Lifestyle 
• Timeline 

Fortunately, you don’t have to make this decision alone. Our dental team is here to support you every step of the way! 

What Is a Single Tooth Denture?

When most people think of dentures, they picture a full set of artificial teeth. This isn’t always the case! Dentures are more customizable than you might think. 

A single tooth denture is a removable prosthetic designed to fill the gap left by a missing tooth. 

Think of it as a more lightweight and specific version of traditional full dentures. It provides an affordable, non-invasive solution for people looking for a quick fix to restore their smile and basic oral functionality. 

The benefits of a single tooth denture include: 

• Affordability: Single tooth dentures are generally more affordable, making them a great starter option for those on a budget or who aren’t ready for a surgical procedure. 
• Non-invasive: Because they don’t require surgery or a healing period, these dentures are a quick and pain-free way to restore your smile. 
• Custom-fit: Our expert team verifies that each denture (no matter its size) is custom-made to fit your mouth comfortably and securely. 

With that said, single tooth dentures do come with limitations. Since they are removable, they don’t offer the same level of stability as implants. Over time, you may also notice shifting or denture wear. 

At Smyl Dentistry, we offer custom partial and full dentures tailored to your needs through our restoration services. 

What Is a Dental Implant? 

A dental implant is a long-term, fixed solution that feels and functions like a natural tooth.

A dental implant offers greater stability than a denture (which is removable), but this requires a more invasive procedure. A dental implant involves surgically placing a titanium post into your jawbone, which acts as a root. Once healed, we attach a crown at the top, creating a seamless replacement that’s nearly indistinguishable from your real teeth. 

A dental implant offers several benefits, including: 

• Natural look and feel: Dental implants mimic the structure and appearance of a natural tooth, seamlessly blending with your smile. 
• Durability and longevity: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, offering an unparalleled return on investment. 
• Prevention of bone loss: Implants stimulate your jawbone, preventing bone loss over time and maintaining the structure of your face. 
• Easy maintenance: Caring for a dental implant is as simple as brushing and flossing your natural teeth. 

Although dental implants have great benefits, they require a surgical procedure and have a higher initial cost than dentures. 

At Smyl Dental, we prioritize your smile and are committed to delivering outstanding Restoration services.

Finding the Right Fit: Factors to Consider

Deciding between dentures or implants isn’t always as easy as choosing between “Options 1 and 2”. There’s no universal answer on which is better, because it all boils down to your unique needs, wants, and additional factors. 

Here are some factors to consider: 

Your Oral Health 

The location of the missing tooth or the number of missing teeth plays a considerable role. 

If you’re looking to replace a single tooth towards the back of your mouth, where it’s less visible, you might opt for a single-tooth denture. However, a dental implant offers better stability while chewing your food.

If a front tooth is missing or if you’re missing multiple teeth, a dental implant might be a better option. It allows you to undergo the procedure once while restoring various areas.

Dental implants require healthy gums and sufficient jawbone to support the titanium post. If you’ve experienced bone loss from a tooth accident, you might need a bone graft before we can place the implant. 

Meanwhile, single tooth dentures don’t have any such requirements, making them accessible to a broader range of patients. 

Budget 

Our oral health is so important, but our team knows how challenging it can be to invest in dental care. Your budget is a determining factor in almost every decision you make.

If cost is a significant factor, single tooth dentures are the more affordable choice. Dental implants have a greater initial cost (since the procedure is more complex and long-lasting) but offer a much better value over time because of their durability and low maintenance. 

Dental coverage under private insurance plans always varies, although most include some level of coverage for dentures. Dental implants aren’t always covered under insurance, so we encourage you to connect with your plan beforehand. 

Lifestyle 

Are you looking for something permanent or something flexible? Dental implants are ideal if you’re seeking a lasting solution, while dentures are a great choice if you’d prefer a removable option. 

Timeframe 

Need a quick fix? Our team at Smyl Denstry can complete a single tooth denture fitting in a much shorter time frame. After the initial consultation, we take impressions before sending the molds to the lab. Then, we can make any necessary adjustments for a proper fit and feel. 

The dental implant process is much more invasive and complex, requiring multiple visits and a healing period. 

Our team is here to help you choose between dentures and dental implants based on your needs. We’ll assess your situation and provide personalized recommendations, supporting you throughout the process.

Keep Smiling!

A missing tooth requires timely intervention. In addition to affecting your smile, it can alter your dental health, your ability to chew, and your speech. 

Don’t overwhelm yourself when debating between a single tooth denture and a dental implant. The important thing is that you’re taking a proactive step in maintaining your oral health. 

Besides, you don’t have to make this decision alone. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way. 

At Smyl Dentistry, we’re dedicated to our vibrant Toronto community. We embrace the diversity around us and strive to offer care that reflects our commitment to your health and happiness. 

Let us help you get your smile back. Connect with us and book your appointment today!