Two Styles of Implant-Supported Dentures

Traditional dentures are no longer the only option for treating extensive or complete tooth loss. Skip the messy adhesives, dietary restrictions, and frequent relinings by choosing implant-supported dentures instead.

Here’s what you should know about the two types of implant-supported dentures, and how fixed permanent dentures compare to traditional removable denture treatment.

What are fixed permanent and removable dentures?

Implant-supported dentures are also known as permanent dentures because the implant posts become a permanent addition to your smile anatomy. The two specific styles of permanent dentures are fixed and removable.

Fixed

Fixed permanent dentures can only be removed by a dentist. You’ll have a full smile 24/7, just as if you never experienced tooth loss in the first place.

Fixed permanent dentures can be a little trickier to clean around, but they offer the most natural feel for most patients. We bet you’ll even forget you’re wearing any sort of denture at all.

Removable

Removable permanent dentures have a slightly different design that allows the wearer to pop off the denture itself from the implant posts. Most wearers will remove the denture for cleaning and while sleeping, similarly to a traditional denture.

Removable permanent dentures make oral hygiene easier to maintain overall. They can also be slightly more affordable than fixed permanent dentures.

Why choose permanent dentures over traditional?

Despite their inherent flaws, traditional dentures are still very popular because they are affordable and treatment is fast. So, why would you want permanent dentures in the first place? The answer is that implant-supported dentures provide the closest look, feel, and function of a natural smile. You’ll experience life-changing benefits not possible with traditional dentures.

Dental implants are quickly becoming the “standard of care” for replacing missing teeth because they offer advantages other restorations cannot. Many of the same advantages of individual dental implants apply to implant-supported dentures.

Implant-supported denture benefits:

• Dental implant posts mimic the root of a natural tooth and keep the jawbone stimulated and healthy. 
• Implant-supported dentures prevent the dreaded facial sagging and premature aging that occurs with wearing traditional dentures.
• You’ll be able to enjoy a much wider range of foods with implant-supported dentures, thereby improving your general health.
• You’ll be able to eat and speak with confidence knowing your implant-supported denture isn’t going to slide around or pop out of place.

Many patients who’ve upgraded from traditional dentures to implant-supported dentures remark at how much their quality of life has improved since making the change. Even removable permanent dentures still offer considerable benefits over traditional dentures.

What are the disadvantages of permanent dentures?

Before moving forward with removable or fixed permanent dentures, you need to know everything, not just the benefits.

Implant-supported dentures don’t necessarily have disadvantages or downsides, but there are still factors that you should be aware of before surgery. These potential drawbacks include:

• A lengthy healing period that can take months. 
• Some discomfort and soreness immediately following surgery.
• Dietary restrictions during the healing process (liquids and soft foods).
• A greater financial cost compared to traditional dentures.

Your dentist will also go over these factors to ensure you know exactly what to expect before and after dental implant surgery, including your future life with permanent dentures in the decades to come.

Who is a candidate for implant-supported dentures?

Implant-supported dentures offer many benefits, but achieving candidacy is different from traditional or immediate dentures. While immediate dentures are noninvasive, fixed and removable implant-supported dentures require oral surgery. This surgery results in a longer period of healing, meaning patients should be in good general health before treatment.

Ideal candidates for implant-supported dentures should have:

• Healthy gums and adequate jawbone density
• No uncontrolled medical conditions
• Established oral hygiene habits

It’s also important that candidates:

• Do not smoke or drink excessive alcohol
• Do not have an immune system disorder
• Do not have bruxism or a TMJ disorder

The way to determine if you’re a candidate is through a consultation and evaluation. Even if you’re not a candidate right now, it may be possible that you can achieve candidacy in the future. Your dentist will go over your options and guide you toward the best solution for your oral health.

Schedule a consultation to learn more about dentures.

By now you probably have an idea of what type of denture would fit your lifestyle best. The next step is to visit My Chico Dentist for an in-depth consultation with the best prosthodontist in Chico, CA. Our team offers custom-made dentures that look natural and feel comfortable.

During your consultation you’ll learn more about denture prosthetics and find out if you’re a candidate for the procedure that interests you the most. You’ll also get a chance to ask questions and get clarification on the treatment process so you can move forward with confidence.

Book your denture consultation today by calling our office or requesting an appointment online.