Implant Retained Dentures vs Traditional Dentures
If you need to have all of your teeth replaced or if you need to have several extractions due to gum disease or decay you are probably considering what kind of denture might be best. As you decide, it is important to have a good understanding of the differences between conventional dentures and modern implants.
Removable Dentures: Pros and Cons
When getting a new denture the initial investment for a conventional denture can be fairly inexpensive, however a conventional denture may prove to be costly in the long run. As your bone anatomy shifts over time, and the acrylic of the denture wears out, conventional dentures will need to be replaced from time to time. So, it is important to consider that though more costly during the initial investment, dental implants can actually last a lifetime.
Getting habituated to a new prosthesis takes practice. Learning how to eat and talk with conventional dentures takes time. Since conventional dentures do not allow for the same kind of force with chewing and biting as natural teeth, foods will be required to be formed into smaller pieces and softer foods are often advised. However, if an affordable, immediate tooth and/or teeth replacement is needed dentures are a serious consideration.
Implant Dentures : Advantages
The advantages of an Implant Dentures are many. Implant dentures are generally more comfortable to wear and don’t fall out. There are no gooey adhesives involved, and often current bone health is enhanced. They are known to be easier to eat and talk with than conventional dentures, and with a slimmer design there are no sore spots or rubbing. An implant denture offers more security and stability day to day and there are both permanent and snap on options.
Dental implants are even stronger than the our natural teeth, and are able to support considerable weight. So, fewer implants are needed for stabilized dentures. Speaking and eating with a slimline implant will feel similar to the experience of speaking and eating with your natural teeth. And with implant dentures, there is no need for any concerns about dentures coming loose while eating or speaking.
Bone health is also improved with implant dentures, as compared with conventional dentures. Since standard dentures rest on your gums pressure is put on your jawline repeatedly, which over time causes bone shrinkage (also known as resorb). Your facial appearance and profile can be significantly affected as a result. Implant dentures, however, actually strengthen the bone that is inside the jaw. Through a process known as “osseointegration” new bone forms around the implant which fuses the appliance permanently in place and in turn enhances the overall bone health and preservation of the jaw.
Implant Retained Dentures : Types
There are a few options for anchoring your denture with the use of dental implants. A conventional denture can be stabilized with the use of 2-4 implants which allows for a better (and more secure) fit, as well as easy removal. This “snap-on” option offers both easy maintenance and care, as well as the stability that comes with implants. There is also the “All on 4” option where the implant denture is permanently anchored. This option is a kind of hybrid bridge/denture that can follow the natural outline of your mouth and smile. It is attached permanently on to 4 ideally placed implants, which can then support the weight of the missing lower or upper teeth.
Which Option for You?
Budget, health and your specific dental needs will influence what kind of denture is recommended. A consultation for implant retained dentures is encouraged, and there are often financing options available