Effectively addressing tooth loss is vital to maintaining overall oral health. Fortunately, tooth loss sufferers have a wide array of long-term replacement solutions from which to choose. One popular and effective option among these is dentures. However, even after opting for dentures, patients face another key decision.
The decision between implanted dentures and traditional dentures is a significant one that impacts oral health, comfort, and overall quality of life. Each option has distinct advantages and potential concerns. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed choice that suits your needs. Today, we highlight the key aspects of implanted and traditional dentures to help you determine the best solution for your dental needs.
Understanding Traditional Dentures
Traditional dentures are removable prosthetics that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are typically made from acrylic resin and sometimes use metal for added strength. Traditional dentures come in two main types: full dentures, which replace all teeth in an “arch” in the upper or lower jaw, and partial dentures, which fill in gaps when some natural teeth remain.
The advantages of traditional dentures include their affordability and non-invasive application. They’re relatively quick to produce and a practical solution for those needing immediate tooth replacement. However, traditional mouthpiece-like dentures can sometimes be uncomfortable, slip out of place, and require adhesive for stability. As importantly, they also do not prevent jawbone density loss, which can accompany tooth loss and alter facial structure over time.
Exploring Implanted Dentures in San Jose
“Implanted dentures” is a broad term that refers to dentures supported in the mouth by dental implants rather than suction or adhesives, as traditional dentures are. Though the term is often used interchangeably with “implant-supported dentures,” there are subtle differences.
However, implanted dentures are generally more expensive and require a longer treatment process, including surgery and healing time.
Implant-supported dentures are a type of denture that is specifically designed to attach to dental implants. Implant-supported dentures snap onto the implants, which provide a secure and stable fit. It’s worth noting that there can even be variations among implant-supported dentures, which fall into two main categories:
- Bar-retained dentures — This involves placing a thin metal bar in the mouth, following the curve of the jaw, attached to two to five implants in the jawbone. These dentures are typically held in place by clips or other attachments fitted to the bar or the denture. The denture fits over the bar and is securely clipped into place by the attachments.
- Ball-retained dentures — Also known as “stud-attached dentures,” are fitted with ball-shaped attachments that fit into a socket in the denture in the jawbone.
What Sets Implanted Dentures Apart?
Implanted or implant-supported dentures offer several benefits. First and foremost, they are incredibly durable. With proper care, a healthy lifestyle, and good oral hygiene, dental implants can last multiple decades, if not a lifetime!
They are also extremely stable and reliable. Since these dentures attach to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone, they provide a far more stable, secure, and natural-feeling fit. Unlike traditional dentures, implanted dentures do not require adhesives and are less likely to slip or move, enhancing comfort. This is crucial to fully restore proper biting, chewing, and speaking functionality and self-confidence.
Another significant benefit of implanted dentures is their ability to preserve jawbone density. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, which can begin to atrophy after tooth loss. This stimulation helps prevent bone loss after tooth loss, which helps maintain facial structure and prevents the sunken appearance that can occur with traditional dentures.
Traditional and Implanted Dentures: Which Is Right for You?
The decision between traditional and implanted dentures hinges on a few key factors, including oral health, convenience, lifestyle, and budget. Both types of dentures require proper maintenance.
Traditional dentures are an effective, non-invasive solution. They do, however, come with certain drawbacks. They can cause sore spots on a person’s gums and require an adjustment period, during which eating and speaking can be challenging. Along these lines, traditional dentures often require regular checkups, maintenance, and periodic adjustments to ensure fit, comfort, and function. Traditional dentures also require regular removal for daily cleaning and overnight soaking to prevent plaque buildup.
Implanted dentures, on the other hand, offer superior comfort and functionality, feeling more like natural teeth. They provide stability and minimize the risk of slippage, allowing for confident eating, speaking, and smiling.
Cost is also a significant factor. While traditional dentures are more affordable up front, they require frequent replacement and adjustment, which increases their long-term cost. Implanted dentures have higher initial costs due to the need for dental implant surgery but are more cost-effective long-term due to their durability, contribution to overall quality of life, and easy at-home oral health care.
Consulting a qualified dental professional in San Jose is crucial to making an informed decision between implanted and traditional dentures.
Helping You Navigate the Implanted Denture Process in San Jose, CA
If you’re looking for an experienced and caring dental care team to help you assess your traditional and implanted denture options in San Jose and precisely implement the tooth replacement solution that’s best suited for you, contact Dr. Jesse Rosete and the friendly and skilled Alum Hills Dental team to schedule a consultation!