Implant-Supported Dentures v Conventional Dentures

Patients who have lost a significant number of teeth may require a dental prosthesis to restore their smile. Dentures are a great way to replace a number of missing teeth in one area of the mouth with a partial or one or both arches with a full denture! A patient can have a conventional denture or an implant supported denture in rockwall texas. When comparing a conventional denture and an implant supported denture, the biggest difference is the method used to hold them in place.

A conventional denture is what comes to mind for most people when they think of a denture. This is the type that sits above the gums and is held in place with denture adhesive and suction. Conventional dentures are easily removed by the patient for cleaning, sleeping, and adjustments by your Dentist.

An implant supported denture is held in place by dental implants! Dental implants are surgically placed directly into the job on an act is the root of the tooth onto which the denture is secured using screws or cement. This type of denture cannot be removed by the patient, only by a Dentist.

Both types can be used to fabricate a partial denture or a full denture for the patient. They are both made using an acrylic base tinted the color of the patient's gum tissue with porcelain teeth set into the base.

What are the differences between a conventional denture and an implant supported denture?

Conventional dentures will always be the less expensive option to start but a conventional denture will often need to be replaced much sooner than an implant supported denture. They may only last up to 10 years, largely due to jaw bone deterioration and a change in facial structure which causes the denture to become ill fitting and may even cause changes to your appearance. The jawbone can begin to deteriorate with a conventional denture because there are no tooth roots in the jawbone to help stimulate bone regeneration.

Avoiding bone deterioration is just one reason that an implant supported denture is often the better choice. Though they are more costly to begin with, they are much more stable and secure and will not need to be replaced as often. Dental implants have the ability to last a lifetime and an implant denture will only need to be replaced with normal wear and tear or accident or damage. An implant supported denture is much more comfortable for the patient as well since the denture is secured in place using screws or cement and cannot slip around in the patient's mouth. When a denture is able to move, it can rub and cause irritation on the gum tissue.

It is important for you to discuss your goals for your smile with your Dentist. They will be able to review your options with you and help determine what dental restoration will best suit your individual needs and lifestyle. Patients who were able to endure implant placement surgery and the extensive healing time may find an implant supported denture to be more appealing. Patients must be overall healthy and have sufficient bone structure in order to have a successful implant case.

What are Implant Supported Dentures?