If you’ve been told that you need dentures, you have two options: traditional dentures or dentures that are anchored in place by dental implants. You may wonder if conventional dentures are the better choice for you because you’re worried that the process of getting dental implants is longer and more expensive. Before you make a decision, it's a good idea to consider some of the benefits of dental implant supported dentures.
Dental Implants Prevent Bone Loss
Dental implants are inserted into the jaw bone to promote new bone growth and prevent bone loss, which gives your restoration the support it needs to function properly. Patients with traditional dentures lose bone density in the jaw over time. One of the consequences of this bone loss is a weakened bite. Eventually, biting and chewing your favorite foods may become so difficult that you won't be able to enjoy them any longer.
Another reason patients wish to avoid jawbone loss is that it can affect their facial structure. This condition is referred to as facial collapse. Your features will begin to sag and take on a sunken, prematurely aged appearance. Solutions for facial collapse are costly and not nearly as effective as prevention.
Implant Supported Dentures Are More Secure
Your dental implants hold your implant-supported dentures in place. There's no need to use a messy denture paste or adhesive to keep implant-based restorations secure. Patients prefer implant-supported dentures over traditional dentures because they are more comfortable, without the slippage that causes painful sores and gum irritation.
In addition, patients who have had both traditional dentures and dental implants strongly prefer implants because their stability helps them feel more self-confident. They don't have to be concerned about their dentures falling out or slurring their speech. They never have to turn down food at a restaurant or family gathering because they know they can't bite or chew it. They don't have to worry about jawbone loss affecting their facial appearance and aging them beyond their years.
Patients sometimes forget they're wearing dentures at all because implant-supported dentures look, feel, and function so much like natural teeth.
Implant Supported Dentures May Cost Less in the Long Run
We recognize that for many patients, the cost difference between conventional dentures and implant supported dentures is a determining factor. That said, consider the fact that traditional dentures may be less expensive in the short term, but in the long run, they could cost you more.
Traditional dentures are less durable than implant supported dentures; they need to be refitted or relined every few years as the jawbone deteriorates. Some types of dentures are prone to warping over time too, which is another reason you'll need to replace them. If bone loss affects your ability to eat or causes facial collapse, you could need a sinus lift or bone grafting to repair the damage.
In contrast, your dental implants will last a lifetime and, because of their stability compared to traditional dentures, the restoration that attaches to your implants will need to be replaced less frequently.
Taking Care of Implant Supported Dentures Is Easy
Whether you choose a fixed denture that is permanently attached to your dental implants or a removable (snap-on) option, caring for implant supported dentures is easy. A fixed restoration can be brushed with a toothbrush, while a removable denture is cleaned just like a traditional denture.
Learn More About Dental Implant Supported Dentures
If you’d like to discuss whether dental implant supported dentures are right for you, contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our two Massachusetts locations.