Implant Retained Dentures vs Implant Supported Dentures
For anyone who may have lost all, or even some of their teeth, traditional dentures often prove to be uncomfortable and/or lacking in performance. Because of this dental implants are now being used to offer support and stabilization to retain dentures that may not be fitting well. These implant retained dentures have specific benefits, and the implant supported dentures offer other advantages, but improved bite functionality and enhanced stabilization are offered by both types. Which treatment works best depends on various conditions and factors.
Implant-Supported Type Dentures
Implant-supported dentures are able to accept significant bite force and so this type of fixed denture is able to absorb bite impact through the implant into the jawbone, which ultimately will provide the most natural and effective bite capabilities for patients. Typically this type of denture is more costly because this treatment requires more implants. A certain amount and quality of existing bone is also required for this type of denture, so this may or may not be an option for some patients. Especially because naturally some people will feel hesitant about undergoing other associated procedures (such as bone regeneration treatments or soft tissue repair or reconstruction) that might be necessary for ensuring successful treatment resulting in an implant-supported denture.
Implant-Retained Type Dentures
With implant-retained dentures most of the bite force is actually absorbed via the gums But with this treatment fewer dental implants are needed which usually means a more affordable procedure. With these types of implant-retained dentures often mini dental implants can be used. These types of implant-retained dentures do help people speak and eat more with more confidence and with more ease. However they aren’t fully mimicking natural bite, and they do have to be removed daily for cleaning.
Important Considerations
A person’s general health, oral health, cirumstances, lifestyle, diet, and cost are all important aspects to be considered when deciding on the right denture treatment.
For people that strongly prefer the idea of waking up with natural looking, feeling, teeth that are fixed the implant-supported type dentures will likely be the right overall lifestyle fit and choice. Other patients that suffer from TMJ and/or sleep apnea often feel most comfortable if they are able to sleep with teeth intact through the night, and so likely will also prefer the implant-supported type denture.
In regards to diet and eating preferences, someone that doesn’t miss the stickier and chewier foods might prefer the implant-retained type denture, while someone who prefers (or needs) to be able to eat chewier meats such as steak likely opt for implant-retained dentures.
Cost is a factor for most people, as well, when choosing denture treatments. Implant-supported dentures can cost more up front, but are also generally agreed to offer more long-lasting benefits. But, it is important to reiterate that both of types of treatments can be effective for someone in need of dentures.