Implant-Supported Dentures v Conventional Dentures

Many patients who have lost a significant number of their natural teeth have to decide what type of dental prosthesis they want to use to restore their mouths. There are a number of options available but here, we will discuss denture options including traditional dentures and implant-supported dentures. It is important to discuss your options with your dentist so they can help you determine the best path of treatment for your individual case and lifestyle.

What is the difference between conventional dentures and implant-supported dentures?

Both a conventional denture and an implant-supported denture can be a partial denture or a full denture. Both are fabricated using an acrylic base that is tinted to match the patient’s gum tissue and porcelain teeth that are set into the base.

A conventional denture fits over your gums and is held in place using a denture adhesive and suction. A conventional denture can be removed by the patient for cleaning and sleeping. This style is what most people think of when they hear the term “denture“.

An implant-supported denture also fits over your gums but is held in place using screws that tighten into dental implants which are surgically placed into the patient’s jawbone. Patients cannot remove an implant-supported denture on their own, a dentist has to take it off for them.

Conventional Dentures v Implant-Supported Dentures

Of these two options, conventional dentures are initially the less expensive choice and are ideal for patients who cannot endure implant placement surgery. Conventional dentures, however, need to be replaced every 10 years or so. They can allow for bone deterioration which thereby causes the denture to not fit properly which in turn can irritate the gum tissue and cause mouth sores. The deterioration of bone structure can eventually lead to a change in your facial structure and appearance.

Implant-supported dentures are significantly more costly but are drastically more secure for patients when they eat and speak. Patients looking to get an implant-supported denture have to be overall healthy, with good jawbone structure and density. They also have to be able to endure implant placement surgery and six months of healing time.

Which is ultimately the best denture option?

An implant-supported denture may seem financially daunting at the start but when all is said and done, they last so much longer and are so much more comfortable for the wearer than a conventional denture. Patients even find that an implant-supported denture is easier to become accustomed to than a conventional denture.

So it all comes down to stability and longevity. An implant-supported denture can last twice as long as a conventional denture and is better for the overall health of the patient. Conventional dentures can eventually lead to other issues including bone resorption and mouth sores. And even though the denture part of an implant-supported denture may need to be replaced, the implants can last a lifetime.

More on Implant Supported Dentures : Cleaning Implant Supported Dentures