Implant Retained Dentures Vs. Implant Supported Dentures
Patients with missing teeth who have and are dissatisfied with their dentures or who are looking to avoid issues commonly attributed to dentures (sore gums, constant slipping, reduced ability to enjoy foods, increased risk of developing additional oral health issues) may be good candidates for implant retained or implant supported dentures. Implant retained dentures are dentures that fasten to a titanium implant that has been placed in the jawbone and acts as the root of the new tooth. This implant can be removed by the individual, whereas implant supported dentures are fixed to this implant and can only be removed by their dentist or periodontist.
Compared to traditional dentures, both implant retained and implant supported dentures provide a great deal more stability and improved functionality. More importantly, both treatment options reduce the risk of further jawbone deterioration, which is a common issue that occurs for patients who have traditional dentures.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Implant Retained Vs. Implant Supported
One of the biggest differences between implant retained versus implant supported dentures is the level of maintenance required. Implant supported dentures can be cared for much like one’s natural teeth, whereas implant retained dentures must be taken out and cleaned thoroughly each night, preferably using a soft-bristle toothbrush. It is also advised that people do not sleep with their implant retained denture in, whereas implant supported dentures do not require this type of modification.
For some patients, the additional care required for implant retained dentures is inconsequential compared to other factors, such as the reduced cost of having implant retained dentures placed or how much less invasive and time consuming the implant retained denture process is compared to the process of having supported dentures placed. While the process for having implant supported dentures is more expensive and takes longer, the end result is a stronger implant that will restore a patient back to their full force bite, allowing them to enjoy all types of foods. Implant supported dentures are also slightly more durable than implant retained dentures.
Which One Is Right For Me?
While there are benefits and drawbacks to implant retained versus implant supported dentures, the good news is that both are very effective treatment options with high patient satisfaction rates. Patients who have either type of denture placed are typically very happy with the results and enjoy the following benefits:
- Feels and looks like their natural teeth
- Restores their ability to enjoy more types of foods
- Does not rub or cause sore spots, which is a common issue with traditional dentures
- Maintenance is simpler than traditional dentures and does not require the use of adhesives
- Improves one’s overall oral health and reduces the risk of jawbone deterioration and other oral health issues that can develop when teeth are missing
- Comfortable
- Will not slip or fall out of place while talking or eating
- Improves ones sense of self-confidence
To learn more about implant retained and implant supported dentures and determine which of these options may be right for you, schedule an appointment with your periodontist today!