Traditional Dentures vs. Implant-Supported Dentures

We have all seen this scenario played out over and over: whether skydiving, playing a game, or just trying to enjoy a meal, some embarrassed man or woman accidentally loses their dentures. These moments, when caught on camera, can turn into hilarious viral videos, but for many patients, it’s an all-too-common, embarrassing reality.

Dentures have been used for decades as a durable restoration. But their design has improved dramatically, making them more comfortable and natural-looking than ever before. If you need dentures, you may be wondering what type is best for you.

Both traditional dentures and implant-supported dentures can fill gaps in your smile, restore your ability to chew and talk properly and improve your appearance. But there are several differences between traditional dentures and implant-supported dentures. If you are unsure which type may be better suited for you, learn more about them below. Then, call Dallas Street Dental at 479-668-3109 to schedule a consultation at our office in Fort Smith, AR.

Traditional Dentures

Traditional dentures are a great solution for many people, but there are some limitations to be aware of.

Traditional dentures are custom-made for each patient to ensure optimal fit, but because they are worn over your gums, they often cause discomfort. This is mostly due to rubbing against your gums, resulting in raw or blistered gums.

You can eat a wide variety of foods with dentures as long as you are careful about what you eat. Because traditional dentures aren’t completely secure, certain foods, especially sticky foods, can cause your dentures to slip or fall out. In some cases, it’s just not as enjoyable to eat certain foods with dentures. Many patients decide to stick to soft foods because they are easier to eat with dentures.

Traditional dentures should be removed while you sleep, cleaned thoroughly, and stored properly. With traditional dentures, there is the risk of jaw bone atrophy, so regular checkups are essential to protect your oral health.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures have become more popular in the last couple of decades. They are a more secure option than traditional dentures and work much like your natural teeth.

One of the biggest benefits of implant-supported dentures is that they help maintain the bone structure in your jaw, so you don’t suffer the effects of bone loss. This means your face will maintain its shape and your jaw bone will stay strong.

For implant-supported dentures, dental implants are placed in your jaw where they bond with the bone to create a secure foundation for the denture. The denture is still customized to suit your needs but is fixed to the implants so it is only removed when you come to see us for a checkup and cleaning.

Call Today to Find Out If You Are A Candidate for Implants

To find out if you are a candidate for implant-supported dentures, call our dental office at 479-668-3109 or contact us online to request an appointment. During your consultation, we can determine which type of denture better suits your wants and needs. We will work to make sure you find a restoration solution that is right for you.