Implant-retained dentures vs. implant-supported dentures
Implant-retained dentures and implant-supported dentures have increased in popularity in recent years, as wearers of both of these types of dental restorations learn that they are much more comfortable and convenient than conventional removable dentures. In order to determine whether implant-retained dentures or implant-supported dentures are more appropriate for your specific needs, it’s important to understand the differences between these two types of long-term dental restorations.
Implant-supported dentures are fixed in the mouth, permanently attached to dental implant fixtures that have been surgically placed into the bones in the jaw. Because they absorb the full forces of biting and chewing, they function and feel most effectively, like natural teeth. Implant-supported dentures tend to be more expensive than other types of dentures, and they are not usually compatible with mini implants or procedures that require fewer implant fixtures like all-on-two or all-on-four dentures. Implant-supported dentures also require the availability of a sufficient quantity of healthy bone, which may not be possible with certain patients. This may necessitate bone grafts or soft tissue regeneration to ensure successful treatment; these additional surgical procedures add to the overall cost and may be daunting for the patient, though they are routine procedures. Sometimes, the need for additional surgical procedures indicates that implant-retained dentures may be more appropriate.
Implant-retained dentures allow the gums to absorb more of the force from biting and chewing, which means that certain very hard foods are best avoided, and which also means that eating with these types of dentures may require a little getting used to. It is often possible to place implant-retained dentures on fewer implant fixtures, as with all-on-two or all-on-four implants, which helps implant-retained dentures be more affordable for many patients; in some cases, mini implants are also appropriate for implant-retained dentures, which also helps with cost. Mini implants can be especially useful for patients with minimal available bone, thereby reducing or eliminating the need for bone grafts, further lessening cost. Implant-retained dentures allow the wearer to eat and speak comfortably and easily, after some adjustment, and they are removed nightly and for cleaning throughout the day.
Multiple factors make each of these appropriate choices for certain patients. Patients with sleep apnea or bite problems, like TMJ, may prefer the stability provided by having their dentures in while sleeping, especially when these restorations are made of particularly resilient materials. For some people, the psychological benefits of permanently placed teeth make implant-supported dentures worth the greater cost. Dietary preferences can contribute to which choice is better, too; people who prefer to eat a wider variety of foods may find that implant-supported dentures are preferable, whereas people who are already accustomed to a limited diet may be satisfied with implant-retained dentures. Implant-supported dentures are more expensive than implant-retained dentures, and for some people, these costs are worth the greater benefits they may provide. Carefully discussing the pros and cons of each option with a dental professional, and learning about the specific factors that affect the success and cost of each type, can help patients determine which is the preferable type of denture for them. It is generally agreed that both types of denture provide great benefit to the wearer, and talking about the options with a professional is a great way to decide which option you prefer.