Types of Implant Dentures

Implant dentures have revolutionized the field of dentistry. It provides patients with a reliable and long-lasting solution for missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, implant dentures are securely anchored to the jawbone using dental implants. It provides improved stability, comfort, and functionality. However, this comprehensive guide will explore the various implant denture types available today.   

Understanding different factors about these will undoubtedly help you choose the right option. 

Different implant denture types you need to know 

Let's have a look at various implant denture types available today to learn more: 

Metal bar-retained dentures / Removable implant dentures 

Removable implant dentures are a modern alternative to traditional dentures. Metal bar-retained dentures, also known as implant-supported overdentures with metal frameworks, are removable dentures that utilize a metal bar attachment system to secure the denture. This approach offers enhanced stability and support compared to traditional removable dentures.  

Let's explore some key aspects of metal bar-retained dentures. 

Metal bar-retained dentures consist of a custom-made denture supported by a metal bar attached to dental implants. The metal bar is designed to fit precisely onto the implants and provides a stable foundation for the denture. The denture is fabricated to fit snugly over the bar, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.  

Benefits of Removable Implant Dentures 

Let's have a look at the benefits of removable implant dentures below: 

• Enhanced Stability: With the support of dental implants, removable implant dentures offer superior stability compared to traditional dentures. This allows individuals to eat, speak, and confidently smile without worrying about dentures slipping or shifting. 
• Improved Comfort: Traditional dentures can cause discomfort and sore spots due to friction against the gums. Removable implant dentures distribute the biting forces more evenly, reducing the risk of pain and irritation. 
• Preserving Jawbone Health: The underlying jawbone deteriorates over time when teeth are lost. Removable implant dentures help stimulate bone growth through the artificial tooth roots, preventing bone loss and maintaining facial structure.

Fixed implant dentures  

Fixed implant dentures are a restorative dental treatment designed to replace an entire arch of missing teeth. Unlike removable dentures, which are held in place with adhesives or suction, fixed implant dentures are securely anchored to the jawbone using dental implants. 

The process of obtaining fixed implant dentures typically involves several stages. First, a comprehensive examination and consultation are conducted to evaluate the patient's oral health and determine their suitability for dental implants. If the patient is deemed a good candidate, the next step involves the surgical placement of dental implants into the jawbone. These implants serve as artificial tooth roots, providing a stable foundation for the denture to be attached to. 

Following the implant placement, a healing period is necessary to allow the implants to fuse with the jawbone through osseointegration. After that, the custom-made fixed implant denture is affixed to the implants using abutments or connectors, resulting in a seamless and natural-looking smile. 

Benefits of Fixed Implant Dentures: 

Fixed implant dentures offer numerous benefits compared to traditional removable dentures: 

• Preservation of Jawbone: 

Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss that often occurs with tooth loss. This preservation helps maintain facial structure and prevents the sunken appearance resulting from traditional dentures. 

• Longevity: 

With proper care and maintenance, fixed implant dentures can last a lifetime. Unlike traditional dentures, which may require periodic adjustments or replacements, fixed implant dentures offer a permanent solution. 

• Improved Oral Health: 

Fixed implant dentures do not rely on adjacent teeth for support, as traditional bridges do. It means neighboring teeth are left unaffected, promoting better oral health. 

All-on-4 implant dentures  

All-on-4 dental implant dentures are a cutting-edge dental restoration option that replaces an entire arch of missing teeth. This innovative technique utilizes four strategically placed dental implants to support a custom-made denture prosthesis.  

All-on-4 implant dentures are securely anchored in the jawbone using dental implants made of biocompatible titanium material. 

Benefits of All-on-4 Dental Implant Dentures 

All-on-4 dental implant dentures offer several advantages over traditional dentures: 

• Enhanced Stability and Functionality: 

The All-on-4 technique provides superior stability compared to removable dentures. The implants are anchors, preventing dentures from slipping or shifting while speaking or eating. This stability allows for improved chewing efficiency and confidence in social situations. 

• Improved Aesthetics: 

All-on-4 implant dentures are custom-made to resemble natural teeth, enhancing the overall appearance of your smile. The prosthesis is carefully designed to match your facial features, providing a more youthful and attractive look. 

• Convenience and Longevity: 

All-on-4 implant dentures eliminate the need for messy adhesives and routine denture removal and cleaning. With proper care, they can last a lifetime, saving you time and money in the long run.  

All-on-6 implant dentures  

All-on-6 dental implant dentures, also known as implant-supported dentures, are an entire arch of artificial teeth securely anchored to the jawbone using six dental implants. All-on-6 implant dentures provide a stable and comfortable fit, eliminating the worry of slipping or clicking. 

Benefits of All-on-6 Dental Implant Dentures 

Let's have a look at the benefits of all-on-6 implant dentures: 

• Efficiency: 

The All-on-6 treatment can often be completed in a shorter time than other implant-supported solutions. This is due to the strategic placement of six implants, which provide sufficient stability for immediate function. 

• Cost-Effective: 

All-on-6 implant dentures are more cost-effective than individually placing dental implants for each missing tooth. Using six implants reduces the overall treatment cost while providing the benefits of a complete arch restoration. 

• Minimal Bone Grafting: 

All-on-6 implant dentures can often be placed without extensive bone grafting procedures. It makes the treatment suitable for patients with moderate jawbone loss. 

Implant-supported overdentures  

Implant-supported overdentures are a type of dental prosthesis that combines the stability of dental implants with the convenience of removable dentures. Implant-supported overdentures are anchored securely onto dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. It creates a strong foundation that eliminates the need for messy adhesives and offers improved stability and comfort. 

Benefits of implant-supported overdentures  

Let's have a look at the key benefits of implant-supported overdentures: 

• Improved Comfort: 

Traditional dentures can cause sore spots and discomfort due to pressure on the gums. Implant-supported overdentures distribute the biting forces more evenly, reducing pain and irritation. 

• Long-Term Durability: 

Implant-supported overdentures are known for their long-term durability. With proper care and maintenance, these dentures can last many years, providing a reliable and functional tooth replacement solution. Unlike traditional dentures that may require frequent adjustments or replacements, implant-supported overdentures offer a more permanent and stable solution. 

• Preservation of Jawbone: 

The placement of dental implants stimulates the underlying jawbone, preventing bone loss and preserving facial structure. It helps maintain a youthful appearance and prevents jawbone deterioration that can occur with traditional dentures. 

Final Thoughts 

Implant dentures have revolutionized how we approach tooth replacement, providing patients with improved stability, functionality, and aesthetics. Understanding the different implant denture types is crucial in deciding which option best suits your needs.  

Also, consult an experienced implant dentist to determine the most suitable implant denture for your unique situation. You can regain your smile, confidence, and overall quality of life by choosing the fitting implant denture.  

 Contact your dentist in Union City, Dr. Zafar Sayeedi, at Noble Dental Care to learn more about different types of Implant Dentures.

Resource:

Understanding Implant Dentures

*This media/content or any other on this website does not prescribe, recommend, or prevent any treatment or procedure. Therefore, we highly recommend that you get the advice of a qualified dentist or other medical practitioners regarding your specific dental condition.