People who are dissatisfied with their traditional dentures have two treatment alternatives: removable implant retained dentures or fixed implant supported dentures. Fortunately, either option will provide a significant improvement when it comes to comfort, stability, and improvement of your overall oral health, however there are some key differences that are important to be aware of if you are considering either option. One of the biggest differences that informs peoples decision is the cost of treatment. Removable implant retained dentures are the more affordable option between the two; however, part of that affordability comes at the cost of strength of the implant and long-term durability. Additionally, because the implant retained denture is removable, this option will require more modified daily maintenance when it comes to cleaning and maintaining the overall health of your denture. Because implant supported dentures cannot be removed other than by a dentist or periodontist, they provide greater stability and do not come with the risk of falling out.
Because implant supported dentures can manage the full force of the bite, this option is best suited for patients who want to resume eating and enjoying as many different types of food as possible. This is also a better option for patients who want a more permanent and durable solution, and for whom the cost and time involved with treatment is not of a great concern. Another important factor that will determine which treatment is best for each patient is the current health of their jawbone. Patients who have lost a significant amount of jawbone and would prefer to not have additional procedures such as a bone graft or sinus lift may be able to receive similar support from an implant retained denture. Although the patient will not receive the same high level of force while biting and have to remove their denture each night for cleaning, they will enjoy being able to talk confidently and eat in public with little concern of the implant falling out.
Which Treatment Option is Right for Me?
The best way to determine whether implant retained or implant supported dentures is right for you is to schedule an appointment with your periodontist. During this appointment, you will have an opportunity to discuss your treatment goals and your periodontist can perform a thorough evaluation of your oral health to determine what treatment options are available to you and answer any questions you may have.
While there are benefits and drawback to either approach, studies show that the majority of patients who shift from traditional dentures to either implant retained or implant supported dentures are satisfied with the results. The following are examples of ways in which either option has improved the daily lives of these patients:
- Stronger, more secure fit
- No sore spots or rubbing
- Improved ability to eat a greater variety of foods
- Does not fall out
- More comfortable
- Looks and feels more natural
- No adhesives required
- Improved overall oral health
- Improved self confidence