Implant Retained Dentures vs Implant Supported Dentures
Patients who are missing a significant number of teeth or who need to have an entire arch or even both arches replaced have a number of options available to them for restoration! Traditional dentures, which use suction and adhesion to stay in place, are the first thing most people think of when they are considering a denture but implants can be used to support a denture that is both more natural looking and stable than a traditional denture.
A traditional denture sits above the gum tissue and can actually allow the jaw bone to deteriorate over time which can lead to a change in your facial structure and cause your denture to become ill-fitting and need to be replaced. Using implants to secure a denture is the healthier option for bone structure because dental implants actually stimulate bone regeneration and help ensure the health of your bone structure.
If your dentist believes that you are a good candidate for dental implants, they will refer you to either a periodontist or oral surgeon for evaluation. Having implants placed is an invasive procedure but if you are able to endure the surgery and healing time, implant dentures may be the best option for you!
Types of Implant Dentures
There are two types of implant dentures available: implant-retained dentures and implant-supported dentures. The difference between the two is simply that one is removable and the other is fixed in place and can only be removed by a dentist. An implant-retained denture, also called a snap-in denture, is made so the patient can remove them for cleaning and even sleeping. An implant-supported denture is secured in place using screws and can only be removed by the dentist.
Which implant denture is right for me?
Things you should consider when deciding which implant denture will best suit you include lifestyle, your overall health, and the cost.
- Your lifestyle can greatly impact the decision between implant dentures. Diet and oral hygiene are two of the biggest factors that need to be taken into consideration. Patients who regularly consume foods that are more difficult to chew, such as steak, may have better results with implant-supported dentures. Those who consume mostly plant-based foods may find that an implant-retained denture will suit them just fine! Oral hygiene is another factor that is very important in your decision. Patients with poor oral hygiene will have better success with an implant-retained denture since they can be removed easily for cleaning and sleeping every day.
- Patients that suffer from medical issues such as sleep apnea or TMJ issues well have better results with an implant-supported denture. Keeping your denture in while you sleep can help alleviate pressure and stress applied to the jaw during the night.
- The biggest deciding factor may be the cost of treatment. An implant-supported denture is more costly at about $30,000 per arch than an implant-retained denture which costs about $8,000 per arch.
Losing your teeth does not mean that you have to be saddled with a traditional denture and rely on messy adhesives and suffer from irritation on sores for the rest of your life. Implant Dentures are a great way to restore the form and function of your mouth with stability and comfort!