Implant Retained Dentures vs Implant Supported Dentures
While the low cost and ease of fitting traditional dentures is enough to convince some clients to try them as a tooth replacement technology, many eventually come to the conclusion that they are simply not as comfortable or functional as they would like. In fact, many people who initially choose traditional dentures end up opting for either implant retained or implant supported dentures when they decide that they have had enough of their traditional dentures. Increasingly, folks are also choosing these versatile and long-wearing dentures from the very beginning. What many find is that they are not only easier and more pleasurable to wear, they also look better and last a very long time, making them well worth the time and money that it takes to create them. But what is the difference between these two popular kinds of dentures? Read on for a full description of the materials, procedures, benefits, and costs that set these two dentures apart.
Implant Retained Dentures
Implant retained dentures are dentures that are held in place with the use of a small number of dental implants, which are small structural supports that extend both below and above the gumline. These implants are embedded into the jawbone in an initial surgical procedure and then, after being thoroughly integrated into the structure of the bone itself, connected to small posts above the gumline that attach to the dentures. These implants provide a great deal of stability for the dentures, helping them to remain in place while their wearer speaks and eats so that they do not move around in the mouth.
While as few as two to four implants can be used to hold the lower arch in place, four to six are necessary to hold the top arch where it belongs. Because of the low number of dental implants, some prefer the more minimal approach of implant retained dentures as they require fewer surgical sites and are also more cost-effective. One of the drawbacks, however, is that they are not quite as stable or strong as implant supported dentures. They also need to be removed every night for cleaning, as do traditional dentures.
Implant Supported Dentures
Implant supported dentures, on the other hand, are held in place by a larger number of dental implants and are designed to remain in the mouth. For this reason, they are also referred to as fixed dentures. Because they count on the structural support of more implants, implant supported dentures provide a more natural bite and are able to support more forceful biting and chewing, as the brunt of the force is absorbed directly by the implants into the jawbone rather than by the gums. They also require swaths of jawbone that are healthy and strong to lend support to the implants, which is not always available in those who are missing teeth. If this kind of quality hard tissue is not available, bone grafting might be required.
Because implant supported dentures require more surgical intervention in the form of dental implants and potentially bone grafts, the cost is higher than that of implant retained dentures. For those who prefer to not remove their dentures, though, and who value the ability to eat foods that require a stronger bite or more vigorous chewing, implant supported dentures may very well be worth the cost. Those who suffer from conditions such as sleep apnea, as well, may find that the structural support of implant supported dentures provide a better sleeping experience than dentures that are removed before bed.
Both of these are excellent options that can provide tremendous benefits and improved quality of life for their wearer. For more information about which might work best for you, call your dentist today to schedule and individualized consultation.