Implant Retained Dentures vs. Implant Supported Dentures
Historically, many people who are missing multiple natural teeth have relied on traditional removable dentures to restore the appearance and function of the dentition. Many people who use traditional dentures find these appliances uncomfortable, however, as they are prone to slipping or rubbing against the gums and interfering with normal eating and speaking. Thanks to continued advances in implant dentistry, stable, secure alternatives to traditional dentures are becoming more popular and more accessible, with each passing day. When dental implants were first used in restorative dentistry, most clinical cases involved each individual dental implant post supporting a single dental prosthetic, or crown. As technologies have improved, dentists have designed treatments that rely on as few as two or three dental implants to support a full row of teeth.
In more recent years, implants have been used in a variety of applications, including both implant-retained dentures and implant-supported dentures. The key difference between these two types of dental restoration is the way that each attaches to the dental implants that support them. Each of these treatments has its own benefits and drawbacks, and all treatment options should be carefully reviewed with your dentist if you’re considering replacing missing teeth.
As an overview, implant-retained dentures are designed to be taken out for cleaning and while sleeping. Because they are cleaned outside the mouth, it is very easy to clean and maintain the denture, and it’s easier to clean the attachment apparatus and oral tissues while the denture is outside the mouth. Implant-retained dentures attach to surgically placed dental implant posts with a specialized attachment that allows them to snap easily into and out of place while preventing them from sliding or shifting. Additional support is provided by the gum tissue that surrounds the denture attachment, which also enhances the appearance of implant-retained dentures. Because fewer implants are required, implant-retained dentures are usually considerably less expensive than implant-supported dentures. While implant-retained dentures provide improved stability when compared with removable dentures, and while they are undoubtedly more comfortable, there may still be some movement in an implant-retained denture.
Implant-supported dentures, on the other hand, are designed to be far more difficult to detach, and many types of implant-supported dentures can only be removed by a dental professional. This provides a more natural function and a more comfortable feel, though it can make it more challenging to properly clean small or hidden areas around an implant-supported denture. Stability and enhanced function are also improved due to the number of implants used and the complexity of implant-supported denture designs, though this complexity comes at a cost, and implant-supported dentures can be expected to cost more than implant-retained ones.
When considering what type of dental restoration is best for each patient, multiple factors come into play. The overall health of the oral tissues and the density of the bone help determine which option is preferable, as optimal healthy bone is necessary to support multiple dental implants. For patients who enjoy eating a wide variety of differently textured foods, implant-supported dentures may be a better option, while patients who value the convenience of cleaning a removable denture might prefer an implant-retained option. Don’t be afraid to ask your dentist about the details that matter to you as you’re investigating your options for stable, comfortable replacement teeth.