Traditional Or Implant-Supported Dentures: Which One is Right For Me?

Posted by Kevin Kit Nov 04, 2024

Dentures offer a great solution for our patients with missing teeth, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of their natural smiles. They can improve facial appearance, boost self-confidence, aid in better chewing, ensure clear speech, and help maintain your overall oral health.

In addition to the traditional denture, we also have implant-supported denture. With the progress in dental technology, implant-supported dentures are now another great choice for improving your smile. In this article, we will compare traditional dentures with implant-supported dentures to help you choose the best option for you.

As most of you know, traditional dentures have been a popular option for replacing missing teeth for many years. These removable dental appliances are custom-made to fit comfortably in your mouth and restore your natural-looking smile. They are also a cost-effective solution if you are looking to regain your ability to chew and speak properly.

Typically, traditional dentures are made of two main materials:

Acrylic Resin: The base of the denture, which sits against the gums, (also know as gingiva) is commonly made of acrylic resin. This material is durable, lightweight, and can be tinted to match the color of our patient's gums.

Porcelain or Acrylic Teeth: The artificial teeth attached to the acrylic base are usually made of either porcelain or acrylic resin. Porcelain teeth are more durable and natural-looking but can be more prone to wear and chipping. Acrylic teeth are less expensive and can be easily adjusted or repaired.

With proper care and regular dental check-ups, traditional dentures can provide a functional and aesthetically pleasing solution for those who wish to replace their missing teeth.

Pros of Traditional Dentures

Non-invasive

Traditional dentures are less invasive as it does not require surgery. Unlike dental implants that require surgery, dentures provide a removable and comfortable solution for achieving a natural-looking smile.

Versatility

Traditional dentures can be a suitable option for individuals with varying levels of jawbone density.

Comfort

One of the key benefits of traditional dentures is that they are custom-made to fit each individual's mouth, providing a comfortable and secure fit. This comfort is essential for everyday activities such as eating and speaking, allowing individuals to feel at ease throughout the day.

Aesthetics

Another advantage of traditional dentures is their ability to restore a natural looking smile. They can be designed to match the shape and color of the surrounding teeth, enhancing the overall appearance of the smile and boosting confidence.

Affordability

In comparison to other dental restoration options, traditional dentures are a cost-effective solution for individuals seeking to replace missing teeth. They offer a practical way to restore function and aesthetics without breaking the bank.

Ease of Maintenance

Maintaining traditional dentures is relatively straightforward. Regular cleaning and proper care can help extend their lifespan and keep them looking and functioning at their best. By following a few simple steps from our dentist at Whittier Premier Dental, you can ensure your dentures remain in good condition for years to come.

Cons of Traditional Dentures

Stability

Traditional dentures may not offer the same level of stability and retention as implant-supported dentures, especially for lower dentures. This is because implant-supported dentures are secured in place by dental implants that are anchored into the jawbone. This stability not only improves the comfort of wearing dentures but also enhances the ability to chew and speak with confidence.

Bone Resorption

Over time, wearing traditional dentures can lead to bone resorption, which may affect the fit and comfort of the dentures. This occurs because traditional dentures do not stimulate the underlying jawbone as natural teeth do. As a result, the bone in the jaw may begin to deteriorate gradually, leading to changes in the shape of the jawbone and causing the dentures to become loose or uncomfortable. If this occurs, we will gladly assist you in achieving the perfect fit for your dentures again. Reach out to us at Whittier Premier Dental. We are here to ensure your comfort and confidence.

Adjustment Maintenance

Traditional dentures require regular maintenance, including cleaning and occasional adjustments may be needed to ensure a proper fit and comfort. Over time, the shape of the gums and jawbone may change, affecting the fit of the dentures. By visiting us at Whittier Premier Dental, we can help prevent sore spots, discomfort, and potential damage to the oral tissues. By staying proactive with maintenance and seeking our professional guidance when needed, denture wearers can enjoy a comfortable and functional experience with their dentures.

Traditional dentures provide versatility in addressing different levels of jawbone density, offering comfort, aesthetics, affordability, and ease of maintenance. With proper care and attention, they can be an excellent choice for individuals looking to restore their smile and regain confidence in their daily lives.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures are an even better option for missing teeth. They are also known as implant-retained dentures or overdentures. Implant-supported dentures are a type of dental restoration that combines traditional dentures with dental implants for increased stability and functionality. Unlike traditional dentures, which rely on adhesives or suction for retention, implant-supported dentures are anchored securely to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone.

Here's how implant-supported dentures work:

Dental implants are small, titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone. These implants act as artificial tooth roots, providing a stable foundation for the denture.
After the dental implants have integrated (osseointegration) with the jawbone, abutments are attached to the implants. Abutments are connector pieces that protrude above the gum line and serve as attachment points for the denture.
The denture, which is custom-made to fit the patient's mouth, is designed with special attachments that snap onto the abutments. These attachments allow the denture to be securely held in place while still being removable for cleaning and maintenance.

Regular denture check-ups for implant-supported dentures are important to ensure they last for years to come. Reach out to us at Whittier Premier Dental to ensure your dentures are well maintained.

Pros of Implant-Supported Dentures

Enhanced Stability

Implant-supported dentures offer significantly improved stability and retention compared to traditional dentures. Because they are anchored to dental implants, they do not rely on adhesives or suction for support, reducing the risk of slippage or discomfort.

Preservation of Bone

Dental implants help stimulate bone growth in the jaw, preventing or minimizing bone resorption (shrinkage) that can occur with traditional dentures. This helps maintain jawbone density and prevents changes in facial appearance over time.

Improved Functionality

With implant-supported dentures, patients can enjoy improved chewing effciency, speech clarity, and overall comfort compared to traditional dentures. The secure fit provided by dental implants allows for greater confidence when eating, speaking, and smiling.

Long-Term Solution

Implant-supported dentures are a durable and long-lasting solution for tooth replacement. With proper care and maintenance, they can provide patients with many years of reliable use and improved quality of life. We are here to assist in the regular maintenance of your implant-supported dentures, to make an appointment with us, reach out to us at Whittier Premier Dental.