Implant-supported dentures combine the benefits of dental implants with the benefits of dentures, helping to eliminate some of the drawbacks while enhancing the advantages of both. But there are three different kinds of implant-supported dentures, each with its own pros and cons.
Let’s take a look at some of your options so you can get a better idea for which one is right for you.
What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?
Dentures are a prosthetic that is meant to replace missing teeth. Partial dentures can fill in a few gaps, whereas full, complete dentures can replace entire sets of teeth. Dentures are unique in that they are removable so that you can take them out at night. The main issue with dentures is that since they only adhere to the gum line with an adhesive, they can sometimes slip and slide around.
On the other hand, dental implants are permanent titanium posts implanted into your jawbone. Over time, your jawbone heals around the implant, making for a sturdy foundation for tooth replacement that is then topped with a crown to restore appearance and function.
Dental implants can be even more durable than real teeth, but they can be pricey for an entire set.
Implant-supported dentures, or anchored dentures, take the best of both worlds and combine them into one. With these, your dentures are attached to dental implants, allowing you the freedom to remove them like traditional dentures with the sturdiness and security of dental implants. Renew calls this a fixed/removable option.
1. Bar-Retained Dentures
With bar-retained implants, dental implants are placed into the jawbone for support. From there, a metal bar is fixed above them with clips or attachments for a denture. The dentures are then placed onto the metal bar for a secure, snug fit.
Bar-retained implants can be removed and reattached whenever you want. Their main drawback is that they can be unsightly and uncomfortable when you remove the denture, as the metal rods often feel unnatural above the gumline.
2. Ball-Retained Dentures
Ball-retained or implant-retained dentures are similar to bar-retained options in that they are removable. A dentist will place two to four dental implants into your jaw that can then be attached to metal housings in a denture. This provides your dentures with a snug, secure fit that feels natural.
These tend to feel more sturdy than bar-retained options and are usually easier to put in and take out. They also look more natural once the dentures are removed.
Maintenance and cleanings are simple and inexpensive. A patient should expect a yearly fee of around $200.
3. Fixed Screw-Retained Denture
Screw-retained dentures provide a snug fit for anchored dentures by fitting the prosthetic dentures into screw-like posts in the gums. The main benefit here is that these provide the most secure fit of all anchored dentures. However, that’s also the main drawback. These can not be removed without the assistance of a dentist.
Additionally, this is one of the most permanent options for teeth replacement, allowing you to fix extensive tooth loss for an extremely long period of time with just regular oral hygiene habits. This is a drawback for some, but this is a great solution for people looking for non-removable teeth.
Dental maintenance on this option is very expensive. A patient should expect to have a $2000 per year maintenance and cleaning cost!!! It is typically TEN TIMES more expensive to maintain a fixed option.
Which Type of Implant Supported Denture Is Best?
As far as choosing which implant is right for you, this is something that you should discuss with your dentist so you can make sure you’re making the right decision. However, there are some things to consider.
For one, most people like the freedom of being able to remove their dentures whenever they want, which means that screw-retained options might not be right for you. But on the flip side, if you want a permanent solution that’s a bit more cost-effective than getting an entire mouth of dental implants, screw-retained pieces might be a helpful option.
Additionally, ball-retained dentures tend to be the most comfortable to wear, as well as the most comfortable to remove, making them one of the more popular options out there.
Implant-Supported Dentures With Renew
Even though implant-supported dentures provide a snug fit, they can still feel loose and lead to problems down the line. Renew is the only provider of the unique SureSNAP Stabilization System to give you a secure, satisfying fit.
SureSNAP allows for a faster healing process and less irritation compared to alternatives, and it also gives you greater stability and greater chewing power. It makes taking care of your new teeth even easier than ever, so you can brush and go about your day just like natural teeth.
Schedule a consultation to see how this revolutionary new form of implant supported dentures can help you smile brighter than ever before.
In Conclusion
Implant-supported dentures provide a secure fit that traditional dentures cannot provide while also allowing for the freedom of removal.
Screw-retained dentures are the most permanent and can only be removed by a dentist, while bar-retained dentures can be removed — though they tend to feel a bit more uncomfortable compared to ball-retained dentures.
Ball-retained dentures are placed over implants in the jaw for a secure, snug fit. And when you go through Renew’s SureSNAP system, you can have confidence in the security and durability of your new smile.
Schedule a consultation today to get started towards a renewed smile thanks to a renewed quality of life.
Sources:
What are dental implants? | The Dental Implant Experts
Case Report: Hader bar and clip attachment retained mandibular complete denture | PMC