Single Implant vs Partial Denture: Best Choice for Missing Teeth in South OC

San Juan Capistrano, CA


If you’ve lost a tooth, you’re not alone—millions of Americans face this decision every year. At Kaban Dental Group in San Juan Capistrano, patients from Dana Point, Mission Viejo, San Clemente, and Aliso Viejo often ask: “Should I replace my missing tooth with a single implant or a partial denture?”

Both options restore function and appearance, but they differ in cost, comfort, and long-term benefits. Let’s break it down.


What Is a Single Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a titanium post surgically placed in the jawbone to act as a replacement tooth root. Once healed, it’s topped with a crown that looks and functions like a natural tooth.

Benefits of single implants:

  • Permanent solution with natural function and appearance

  • Prevents jawbone loss by stimulating the bone

  • Doesn’t affect nearby teeth

  • Easy to maintain—brush and floss like natural teeth

Learn more about Dental Implants in San Juan Capistrano.

What Is a Partial Denture?

A partial denture is a removable appliance that replaces one or more missing teeth. It usually clips onto nearby teeth for support.

Benefits of partial dentures:

  • More affordable upfront

  • Can replace multiple teeth at once

  • Non-surgical option

  • Faster turnaround time compared to implants

Learn more about Dentures in San Juan Capistrano.

Single Implant vs Partial Denture: Key Comparisons

1. Cost

  • Implants: Higher upfront investment ($3,000–$6,000 per implant) but can last decades.

  • Partial Dentures: Lower cost ($1,000–$2,500) but may require adjustments or replacement every 5–7 years.

2. Longevity & Maintenance

  • Implants: Long-term, permanent solution with proper care.

  • Dentures: Need regular relining, may loosen over time.

3. Comfort & Function

  • Implants: Feel like natural teeth, no slipping or adhesives.

  • Dentures: Can shift, especially when chewing harder foods.

4. Bone Health

  • Implants: Preserve jawbone structure and facial profile.

  • Dentures: Do not prevent bone loss, which may change fit over time.

Learn more: Dental Implant vs Bridge for a Missing Molar in San Juan Capistrano

Which Option Is Best for You?

  • Choose a single implant if you want a long-term, natural-looking, permanent solution.

  • Choose a partial denture if you’re looking for a more affordable, faster fix or need to replace multiple teeth at once.

Every patient’s case is unique. At Kaban Dental Group, we evaluate:

  • Number of missing teeth

  • Jawbone health

  • Budget and long-term goals

  • Lifestyle and daily habits

Local Restorative Dentistry in South OC

At Kaban Dental Group, we’ve helped patients across San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, Mission Viejo, San Clemente, and Aliso Viejo restore their smiles with both dental implants and partial dentures.

Call us at (949) 496-5585 or schedule your consultation online.

Dr. Kelly Kaban

Dr. Kelly Kaban graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with her Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular Environmental Biology and graduated from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry with honors in 2017.

Dr. Kaban infuses learning, nature, and fitness as ways to bring balance and peace of mind to her life.

https://www.kabandentalgroup.com/
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Implant-Supported Dentures in San Juan Capistrano: Cost, Fit & Long-Term Benefits