Removable Dentures Versus Implant-Supported Dentures
January 16, 2020
When you lose all your teeth, you may feel like you have only one choice: dentures. However, what you may not realize is the wide variety of solutions available on the market today, such as fixed dentures or bridges anchored by dental implants. As dentist Dr. Kaz Zymantas of Premier Dental in Naperville, IL recommends, patients who require a full set of upper and/or lower prosthetic teeth should always consider all the options at their disposal. Today, we will dive into removable dentures versus implant-supported alternatives.
The Ins and Outs of Removable Dentures
Removable dentures are the traditional ones you probably picture. They can be taken out at night and are held into place using some kind of adhesive mixed with suction forces. Because they are not part of the mouth, they tend to slip, click and fall out from time to time. As the jawbone shrinks because it is no longer stimulated by teeth, the dentures need to be re-fitted to ensure a snug, comfortable fit.
How Implant-Supported Dentures Differ From Removable Types
Implant-supported dentures might look similar to removable dentures, but they are far superior in a number of ways. First, as few as four to six dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone at precise spots. After the titanium implants have fused with the bone, they help prevent bone loss. Additionally, they provide solid foundations for a denture or full-arch bridge.
Once the denture is attached to the dental implants, it cannot be removed except by a dentist. This means it stays in the mouth day and night. Wearers become so accustomed to having teeth again than many forget their implant-supported dentures aren’t their real teeth! Not only can they eat foods they enjoy, but they can gain the confidence that comes from having a no-slip, highly natural-looking smile!
Can Everyone Get Implant-Supported Dentures?
Although implant-supported dentures are generally preferable to removable dentures, they may not be an option if a patient is in poor overall health or lacks enough living bone tissue to support surgery. However, dentists like Dr. Zymantas can frequently work with patients to improve their candidacy through treatments like bone grafting. If you live in the Naperville, IL region and want to know more about dental implants and dentures, call our office, Premier Dental at (630) 355-3339 for an appointment.