Implant Supported Dentures vs Conventional Dentures

Conventional Dentures and Implant Supported Dentures

Once your natural teeth are gone, there are a few options to consider for replacing the absent teeth. Most dentists recommend either traditional dentures or implant supported dentures. There are significant differences between these two techniques and each has specific pros and cons to consider. Understanding the differences will help ensure you make the best decision for teeth replacement.

The Differences

Conventional dentures are designed to follow to the unique shape of your mouth. Your gums and the underlying bone structure in your mouth support the dentures. Dentures can rub against your gums during normal wear and create painful sores. This type of denture can be removed and cleaned outside the mouth.

An implant supported denture is a denture supported by four or more dental implants. This type of denture does not rest on the gums. Instead, it is fixed on implants that are embedded in the jaw bone. A dentist removes the denture for regular cleaning and examinations. Patients are not able to remove the denture on their own.

Conventional Dentures vs. Implant Supported Dentures

In order to determine which option is best, it is important to consider how the differences between the two options affect the performance of the denture.

Regular dentures can rub against the gum and cause pain. This is especially true for dentures placed in the lower jaw. Because nothing holds them in place, they can create a challenge with chewing. In addition, the bone shrinks as there are no teeth or implants in place to stimulate it.

Implant supported dentures are strong from the existing bone. The dental implants used to support this type of denture are embedded directly into the jaw bone. This helps prevent slipping and provides them with added strength. The strong base also prevents sore spots on the gum caused by rubbing. Dental implants stimulate the bone which helps prevent the bone from shrinking.

Conventional dentures do not stimulate the bone which can result in the jawbone shrinking. This also results in a change in the shape of your mouth. This changing shape can require the dentist to adjust the denture to fit the new shape of your mouth. Additionally, the denture lining needs to be adjusted to address the sore spots.

Implant supported dentures are not designed to rest on the gums. Rather, the bone acts as the anchor to keep them in place. The implants promote bone strength and help prevent shrinking of the bone.

Long-Term Outcome

Because they are more affordable, traditional dentures may appear to be the best option as they are less expensive up front. It’s important to consider that they may need to be adjusted down the road. They can also result in a change in the shape of your smile. Traditional denture wearers are often embarrassed to eat in public and even avoid social situations. When evaluating your options, it is critical to evaluate your lifestyle and how it may possibly be impacted through the use of traditional dentures.

Many people argue that implant supported dentures are the better option as they alleviate many of the issues associated with traditional dentures. Implant supported dentures help to preserve the existing bone and rarely require adjustments. This option is more secure and doesn’t move when chewing. Implant supported dentures may cost more up front, however, they require far less maintenance in comparison to regular dentures.

Determining whether conventional dentures or implant supported dentures are best is a personal choice. Be sure to consider the pros and cons of each option and evaluate how it will impact your daily living.