Implant Retained Dentures vs Traditional Dentures
If you’re facing the need to replace all your teeth, whether due to advanced decay, gum disease, or injury, you’re likely weighing your options between traditional dentures and implant retained dentures. While both are designed to restore your smile and function, the experience of wearing and living with each is quite different. Understanding these differences is the first step toward choosing the best solution for your lifestyle, health, and budget. Read on to learn more.
Traditional Dentures
Traditional dentures are removable prosthetics that rest directly on the gums. They are often chosen for their lower initial cost and faster turnaround time. For someone needing a quick, affordable solution, they can be a helpful first step.
But while the upfront cost is lower, traditional dentures come with long-term limitations. Over time, the pressure they place on the gums and jawbone can lead to discomfort, sore spots, and bone shrinkage. This bone loss alters the fit of the denture and often requires adjustments, relining, or full replacement every few years. Traditional dentures are also known to slip and move in the mouth, causing challenges for eating. Many denture wearers find themselves modifying their diets to accommodate their limitations.
Implant Retained Dentures
Implant retained dentures offer a significant improvement in comfort, stability, and performance. These dentures are anchored by two to four dental implants strategically placed in the jaw. The implants act like artificial tooth roots, providing a secure foundation for the denture to snap onto. This added stability means no slipping, no need for adhesive, and far more confidence when eating or speaking.
One of the biggest advantages is the effect implants have on bone health. When implants are placed, the surrounding bone begins to grow around them in a process called osseointegration. This not only locks the implants in place but also helps preserve bone height and prevent the sunken facial appearance that often comes with long-term denture use.
Implant retained dentures can be either removable for cleaning or fixed permanently in place, depending on your preferences and anatomy. Removable versions provide easy maintenance, while fixed “All-on-4” style dentures offer the most natural feel, closer to what it was like when you had your own teeth.
Comfort, Confidence, and Cost Considerations
While implant retained dentures require a higher initial investment, they offer long-term value in both function and appearance. They feel more like natural teeth, eliminate many of the daily frustrations associated with removable dentures, and can last for decades with proper care. Patients who choose implant retained dentures often report a higher quality of life, from the foods they can enjoy to the confidence they feel in social settings.
What’s the Right Choice for You?
Ultimately, the decision between traditional and implant retained dentures comes down to your goals, budget, and oral health. If you’re looking for a secure, long-lasting solution that supports bone health and offers superior function, implant retained dentures may be the right path forward. Speak with your dentist to explore your options and design a plan that gives you the confidence to smile again.
