Implant-Supported Dentures Vs. Traditional Dentures

Houston, TX

Tooth loss is no fun for anyone, and no one understands that as well at us! We want to make sure that all of our patients are armed with the knowledge that they need to choose a tooth replacement option that will fit their needs perfectly. At University Periodontal Associates in Houston, our team, including Dr. Dennison and Dr. Di Matteo, understands how hard it can be to take the leap and commit to something as life-changing as a full mouth tooth replacement option, so we like to provide plenty of honest information that you can use to make the decision a little bit easier. Below we compare two of the most popular tooth replacement options, take an honest look at what makes them both desirable, and explore the pro’s and con’s of each.

What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?

Dental implant-supported dentures are a permanent way to replace teeth in both form and function. Dental implant placement requires a surgical procedure to place the implant post into the jaw bone, where the post will fuse with the jaw bone. Dental implants can last you a lifetime as long as you take proper care of them. An example of an implant-supported denture would be the All-on-4® Treatment Concept.

What Are Traditional Dentures?

Traditional dentures are a tooth replacement option that is removable and is made to replace your teeth in both form and function, just like an implant-supported denture. Basically, the difference between implant-supported dentures and traditional dentures is traditional dentures must be removed to clean them and while you sleep.

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What Are Traditional Dentures?

Implant-supported dentures offer a lot of great long-term benefits over traditional dentures.

Pro’s of Implant-Supported Dentures:They do such a good job of replacing natural teeth that they even can restore some significant health benefits to your mouth. Because they are permanent, you can use them to eat whatever you like, and you can take care of them the same way you take care of natural teeth, with simple brushing and flossing.

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Con’s of Implant-Supported Dentures: Most of the con’s that
come along with implant-supported dentures are in the up-front placement and cost of the devices. Because implant placement is a surgical procedure, the cost is often more significant than traditional dentures. The healing process can take anywhere from two-to-six months to complete, during which time you might not have full use of your new dental prosthesis.

Traditional Dentures Pro's And Con's

Traditional dentures have some great advantages, but they also come with some disadvantages.

Pro’s of Traditional Dentures: Traditional dentures are relatively affordable when compared to implant-supported dentures. The process to receive a new pair of traditional dentures only takes a few weeks, so you can start using them right away.

Con’s of Traditional Dentures:Traditional dentures must be held in place by denture adhesive, which can be messy and may need to be re-applied throughout the day. They have to be taken out to be cleaned and have some special care requirements. You cannot wear them while you sleep and must instead store them in a glass of water or denture soaking solution. Dentures can warp over time and must therefore occasionally be replaced. There are some foods that are too difficult to eat with traditional dentures.

Questions About Implant-Supported Dentures?

Do you still have questions about implants, dentures, or implant-supported dentures? Give us a call at 713-523-9040, and we would be happy to help you determine which treatment is the best your situation. We are looking forward to seeing you at our Houston, TX practice and reviewing your unique case in order to determine the best course of action for you.