Implant-Supported Dentures v Conventional Dentures

Dentures are a great way to replace a number of missing teeth in one area of the mouth, with a partial, or an arch, with a full denture! When patients are looking at their options for restoring missing teeth, a conventional denture or a sioux falls implant-supported denture are two great options to restore their smile! The biggest difference between these two types of dentures is the method used to hold them in place.

 

A conventional denture sits above the gums and is held in place with denture adhesive and suction and is often what comes to mind for most people when they think of a denture. This type is easily removed by the patient for oral hygiene and sleeping. They are also easier for your dentist to work on and make adjustments to.

 

An implant-supported denture is held in place using dental implants onto which the denture is either cemented or screwed! Dental implants are surgically placed directly into the jaw bone and act as an artificial root of a tooth. This type of denture cannot be removed by the patient, only by a dentist.

 

Both types can be used to fabricate a partial denture or a full denture and are made using an acrylic base with porcelain teeth. The base is tinted the color of the patient's gum tissue with porcelain teeth set into the base.

 

Conventional Denture v Implant-Supported Denture

At the start of treatment, conventional dentures are typically the less expensive option but will often need to be replaced much sooner than an implant-supported denture. Conventional dentures may only last up to 10 years, largely due to jaw bone deterioration and changes in facial structure which causes the denture to become ill-fitting and may even cause changes to your appearance. The jawbone will begin to deteriorate because there are no tooth roots (natural or artificial) in the jawbone to help stimulate bone regeneration.

 

Implant-supported dentures are more costly but are much more stable and secure and will last much longer than conventional dentures. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants have the ability to last a lifetime and an implant denture will only need to be replaced with normal wear and tear or accident or damage.

 

An implant-supported denture is much more comfortable for the patient as well since the denture is secured in place using screws or cement and cannot slip around in the patient's mouth. When a denture is able to move, it can rub and cause irritation and sores on the gum tissue, making the denture uncomfortable or even painful to wear.

 

Your dentist will review your options with you and help determine what type of dental restoration will best suit your individual needs and lifestyle. Make sure to disclose any questions or concerns you may have about any type of treatment. It is also important for your dentist to understand what you want and need out of your dental prosthesis. Patients who are able to endure implant placement surgery and the extensive healing time may find an implant-supported denture to be a more appealing option!

 

What are Implant Supported Dentures?