Implant Supported Dentures vs. Conventional Dentures
Losing your natural teeth doesn’t have to be a depressing and embarrassing experience. Today, there are many good tooth replacement options available to you. Dentures have always been a cost-effective and quick tooth replacement option for individuals who are missing most or all of their natural teeth. Unfortunately, what is gained in cost and time is lost when it comes to the fit and comfort of dentures. Implant supported dentures were created to address this problem. Maybe you have never heard of implant supported dentures before. Implant supported dentures are a type of denture designed to attach to dental implants securely placed in the jawbone. Attachment means stability, durability, and improved comfort. Interested in hearing more? Below is more information on the differences between implant supported dentures and conventional dentures.
Conventional dentures
A conventional denture is an artificial prosthetic that serves as a tooth replacement. Dentures can be used to replace multiple or all teeth at once. Conventional dentures function quickly and cost-effectively with a “one size fits all” approach to tooth replacement. This style works quickly because it is designed to sit on top of the gums with a built-in natural looking portion that covers the gumline. A denture can be fit to wear on just the upper gum, lower gum, or both.
Implant supported dentures
One of the things that people do not realize is that losing teeth not only results in the loss of function the teeth provide, but also the loss of structure. Without teeth, the shape of the mouth and jaw changes overtime in a process that is called resorption. This constantly changing shape poses a challenge to conventional dentures requiring them to be refitted every few years. Ill-fitting dentures cause discomfort and issues with eating, chewing, and talking. The solution to this problem is implant supported dentures. Dentists realized that when implants, or titanium screws, are placed into the jawbone, they not only provide a secure place for the dentures to be attached, but they also promote bone growth and halt the resorption process. These dental implants are securely installed in the jawbone, acting just like strong, stable, and secure teeth. Once these implants are in place the dentures simply attach on top.
Benefits of Supported Dentures vs. Conventional Dentures
Upfront, supported dentures are an investment, especially when compared to affordable and quick conventional dentures. But what should be considered in this cost comparison is the number of times conventional dentures will need to be replaced or refitted over the years. If you are willing to make the investment, there are many benefits of supported dentures over traditional dentures that should be considered:
- Maintain face shape and jaw structure: When the implants are placed in the jawbone, the body recognizes them as teeth, which helps to stop the resorption process. Additionally, the implants spark healthy bone growth.
- Secure fit that improves everyday life: One of the biggest challenges for conventional dentures is maintaining a secure fit. With implants, supported dentures will always fit securely without the need for refitting.
- Improved appearance: With the secure attachment, supported dentures need less artificial material to maintain fit. This design difference results in dentures that appear smaller and more natural looking in the mouth.
More on Implant Supported Dentures : What are Implant Supported Dentures?