Implant Dentures

Finally, Secure, Comfortable Dentures that Last!

If you are not happy with the feel or fit of your traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures are a solution many people love. Implant dentures are similar in style to conventional dentures, replacing a full arch of upper or lower teeth. However, the dentures snap onto dental implants in the jawbone. The result is a secure fit without slipping, looseness, or sore spots. You do not have to use special pastes or adhesives to hold implant dentures in place.

There are two implant denture options. Most snap onto posts or balls attached to the implants and are easily removable for cleaning. The other option, fixed implant-supported dentures, is attached permanently and is only removable by a dental professional.

Advantages of Implant Dentures

Implant dentures, sometimes called overdentures, have several advantages for individuals who are unhappy with their traditional dentures, including:

• Greater stability
• No shifting or clicking
• No sore spots on the gums
• Ability to eat any foods you like
• Ability to speak and laugh with confidence
• Easier care
• Increased ability to taste foods and beverages
• Nothing covering the roof of the mouth
• Natural look and feel
• Implant-supported dentures last longer than traditional dentures
• Dental implants help preserve jawbone density and facial contours

Drawbacks of Implant Dentures

Although snap-on dentures are an excellent way to replace missing teeth, they are not for everyone. Like any solution, they have some drawbacks, including:

• Cost: Implant dentures are more expensive than traditional dentures
• Some insurance providers do not cover the cost of implant dentistry
• The procedure, from implant surgery to final restoration, can take several months

Snap On vs. Fixed Overdentures

Both snap-on and permanent overdentures are held in place by two or more dental implants, giving your dentures added stability. The implants also help preserve the jawbone and your facial contours. However, snap-on dentures are removed daily for cleaning, much like traditional dentures. This allows you to thoroughly clean the gums before snapping the bridge or denture back into place.

Fixed overdentures sit on top of dental implants but are permanently fastened into place. You do not have to remove a permanent overdenture. You brush and floss it like natural teeth. However, you may need more implants to support a fixed overdenture. Dr. Greenbaum and his associates are versed in both snap-on and fixed overdentures and can more fully review the pros and cons of each with you at your first consultation.

Are Implant Supported Dentures or Fixed Overdentures Worth the Investment?

The short answer is “yes.” Although the up-front cost of dental implant-supported dentures is higher than the initial cost of a traditional denture, they are more cost-effective over time. Implant dentures last longer due to less movement and do not require special care. They are also more comfortable and convenient than traditional dentures that shift, click, and may be uncomfortable. With fixed overdentures, you never have to be without your teeth, even when sleeping.

What are your comfort and health worth? If you suffer from sore spots due to your dentures rubbing, hate having to remove your teeth every day, or want something that looks and feels more natural, implant-supported or fixed dentures are well worth the cost. Because the implants promote jawbone health, you also protect your oral health and preserve your facial structure, preventing a prematurely aged appearance.

Do Snap-On Dentures Stay in Place?

Yes. Unlike traditional dentures that rest on top of the gums, snap-on dental prosthetics firmly attach to two or more implants embedded in the jawbone. Once they are snapped into place, there is very little movement. You may feel slight shifting the first few weeks, but this is minimal. You will also find snap-on dentures more comfortable because your bite force is distributed evenly over the implants, eliminating sore spots on the gums where traditional dentures may rub the delicate soft tissues.

Permanent dentures are even more firmly attached to dental implants and cannot be removed except by a dentist. These are the most stable form of implant dentures, with virtually no movement, and are cared for like natural teeth.

Will Snap-On Dentures Irritate My Gums?

During the first weeks, you may feel some mild irritation while adjusting to your new replacement teeth. However, because the dentures attach to dental implants rather than resting on the jawbone ridge, there is little or no rubbing of delicate gum tissues. Because snap-on dentures do not shift, you do not develop pressure sores on the gums. If you experience any irritation, contact our office, and we can make adjustments for your comfort.

Do Snap-On Dentures Make Speaking Difficult?

There may be some speech difficulties while you adjust to your new dentures, but this quickly subsides with practice as you become used to your new teeth. Generally, it takes less time to adjust to speaking with snap-on or permanent implant dentures than to adapt to traditional dentures, which are prone to slipping and shifting. Most individuals have little to no problem speaking after the first few weeks.

How Long Do Implant Dentures Last?

Snap-on dentures can last several years with good oral hygiene and proper care. It is important, however, to see your dentist regularly to have your snap-on prosthetic examined and professionally cleaned. We evaluate your snap-on denture at each appointment to ensure it is in good working condition.

Fixed overdentures may last a decade or more, largely due to their fixed position. Because they do not shift and are not removed regularly, they tend to last longer. Some patients have implant-supported dentures that last up to 20 years.

The implants placed in the jawbone can last a lifetime. They fuse with the surrounding bone, becoming a permanent fixture in the mouth.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choosing between snap-on dentures and fixed implant dentures is a personal decision that must be based on several considerations, including your overall health, personal preference, and which option is best suited for your lifestyle and needs. At Bethesda Center for Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we evaluate each patient’s oral health needs and wish to recommend the best solution with the greatest chance of success and patient satisfaction. If you are interested in learning more about implant denture options, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our office at Bethesda Office Phone Number 301-530-3600 to schedule a consultation.