Dentures and dental implants are dental appliances that help replace missing teeth. However, they have different effects on you, especially on how you look. Dentures might leave you looking older compared to dental implants.

How Dentures May Make You Look Old

After losing permanent teeth, other than losing their functionality, the physical changes affect your appearance. With the jawbone shrinking, you will notice changes to the shape of your face. When you replace the missing teeth with dentures, the jaws will no longer come together properly. This will lead to a condition known as loss of vertical dimension: the distance between your chin and nose shortens. Jaw shrinking causes an over-closed and sunken facial appearance that makes you look older than usual.

How Dental Implants Make You Look Younger

Dental implants make you look younger by preventing bone loss. With the prevention of bone loss that is typically caused by missing teeth, your facial structure will be intact. Consequently, the chances of facial sagging and wrinkling are less likely. We recommend that you get dental implants because they don't lead to bone loss. The longer you wear dentures or stay with missing teeth, you will be promoting bone loss. This will make you look older than you actually are. It is recommended that you get dental implants, especially when all your teeth are missing. This is because the lower one-third of your face starts to collapse if not properly fitted to the jawbone.

To correct such a condition, our dentists will carefully evaluate your dental structure and fit the implants perfectly. Contrary to what many people think, getting dental implants is a simple and straightforward procedure. After getting your dental implants, it is good to properly take care of them as you would care for permanent teeth. Visit our offices for more information on how dentures and dental implants work.

Woman smiling while flossing her teeth in a bright bathroom
July 30, 2026
Learn how to care for your dental bridge in Salem, MA. Discover simple daily habits, cleaning tips, and preventive care to help protect your restoration and keep your smile healthy.
Man brushing his teeth with an electric toothbrush in a bright bathroom
July 30, 2026
Learn how to protect your oral health as you age in Salem, MA. Discover healthy habits, preventive dental care, and daily tips to keep your teeth and gums strong for years to come.
Man smiling as a hand applies dental whitening gel with a swab, with teeth shade guide visible
June 26, 2026
Learn the top 3 signs it may be time to replace your dental veneers in Salem, MA. Discover how worn, damaged, or ill-fitting veneers can affect your smile and when to schedule an evaluation.
Smiling woman adjusting her blouse in a mirror beside a woven lamp and potted plant
June 26, 2026
Learn how saliva protects your teeth and gums in Salem, MA. Discover how saliva helps prevent cavities, strengthens enamel, relieves dry mouth, and supports long-term oral health.
Smiling woman with dark wavy hair outdoors, with green foliage in the background
May 28, 2026
Discover 5 simple tips for maintaining a healthy smile as you age, from daily oral care and hydration to routine dental visits and protecting your teeth for long-term oral health.
Man holding his cheek in pain on a couch, with a blurred home background
May 28, 2026
Learn when a toothache may be a dental emergency. Discover warning signs like swelling, severe pain, and infection symptoms, plus what to do before seeing a dentist at Salem Dental Arts in Salem, MA.
Dentist smiling in a dental chair while a clinician in gloves stands nearby
April 22, 2026
Learn how regular dental visits help prevent gum disease and protect your smile at Salem Dental Arts in Salem, MA.
Woman whitening her teeth in a bright room
April 22, 2026
Compare at-home vs professional teeth whitening and find the best option for your smile at Salem Dental Arts in Salem, MA.
A plate of grilled chicken with green beans, red beans, kiwi, peppers, and fresh produce
March 24, 2026
Learn how your diet can impact tooth enamel and sensitivity and how to protect your smile at Salem Dental Arts in Salem, MA.
Hands holding a small, 3D-printed model of teeth and a single crown piece
March 24, 2026
Get answers to common dental crown questions and learn how crowns restore damaged teeth at Salem Dental Arts in Salem, MA.
Show More