Types of Implant Dentures

(Left): An Implant overdenture retained by two implants. (Right): A hybrid implant denture resting entirely on four implants. 

While we often consider dental implants as a solution to replace single missing teeth, they can also be used in conjunction with dentures to replace entire arches of teeth. Many of the aspects of denture use that patients find objectionable can be alleviated with the addition of implants. However, it is important to understand the different ways that implants are used to support dentures, and the benefits of the specific appliances. 

Most patients with “implant dentures” are using a system called implant overdentures.  Here, a fairly traditional denture rests “over” two to four implants on the top or bottom jaw. It is designed to be removable and snaps onto the implant anchors. This makes cleaning around the implants easy and convenient. When compared to regular dentures, implant overdentures have much more stability and retention on the soft tissue. This is particularly beneficial for the mandible, which does not benefit from the “suction cup” action that maxillary dentures have on the palate. It is important to note that the support for biting force with this system still relies on the gums and soft tissue. Thus, you will never be able to generate as much force as natural teeth. Additionally, some patients will still object to the removable nature and bulk of these appliances. However, they are an excellent compromise between usability, cosmetics, ease of cleaning and cost for denture wearers.

A newer system of implant dentures is the all-on-four or "hybrid" implant supported dentures. This appliance is permanently screwed or cemented on four to six implants on the top or bottom jaw. They are not designed to be removed, and thus are more difficult to clean versus implant overdentures. However, they function much more like natural teeth, as the entire arch rests solely on implants. They are much less bulky than traditional dentures and provide easier chewing and biting. Most all-on-four appliances are milled out of a single piece of zirconia. Thus, if any part of it chips or breaks, an entirely new arch of teeth needs to be created. The biggest drawback to this system is cost. Treatment for all-on-four dentures is typically two to three times the cost of implant overdentures. For this price, you are getting the best permanent replacement for natural chewing and eating.

Other factors, such as bone health, gum tissues, jaw relations and face shape will all play into your choice between implant overdentures and all-on-four implant dentures. Surprisingly, cosmetics varies from patient to patient, with some seeing more realistic results with implant overdentures. Making an informed decision relies on a thurough exam and consultation to create a comprehensive treatment plan. If you would like to know more about dentures, implants or other methods of replacing teeth, give our office a call!

Dental Questions: Are dentures a good alternative to natural teeth?

For patients with lifetimes of dental problems, having all your teeth extracted and dentures made may seem like a reasonable choice. After all, the acrylic teeth and gums will be straight, white and won't be subject to cavities or gum disease. However, dentists have a saying: dentures aren't a replacement for teeth- they're a replacement for NO teeth. 

A complete denture is essentially a piece of hard acrylic that is contoured to fit against the upper and lower jaw bones on a patient with no teeth. On the upper arch, the denture creates a sort of "suction cup" against the hard palate. On the mandible, the denture simply rests on the residual ridge of bone. Hence, bottom (mandibular) dentures are unstable and initially difficult to use for eating and talking. Over time, denture wearers usually develop more control of these appliances with their tongue and lip muscles. 

The process of transitioning from natural teeth to dentures can be frustrating and disappointing. Eating with dentures is an entirely new learned skill. You can only generate about a fourth of the biting force you could make with natural teeth. Additionally, food has to be chewed in a specific way to keep the appliances from sliding out of place. For all these reasons, many patients are now opting to have implants placed to work in conjunction with the denture to develop more stability and usability. 

With all this being said, dentures can be a great solution for patients with advanced dental diseases. When faced with the prospect of having no teeth or severely compromised teeth, complete dentures are a lifesaver. For many, a positive attitude makes all the difference in the outcome of denture treatment. If you would like to know more about dentures, implants and other multiple tooth replacement options, please give our office a call!

400 Year Old Dentures

Archaeologists recently unearthed a 400 year old set of dentures from a monastery in Tuscany. The appliance, made from the wearer's lost teeth and gold bands, is the oldest ever discovered of its type. It is thought that the denture was held in place by looping string around four holes in the gold framework. We hope that the string was tight- the wearer couldn't exactly swing by the store for a tube of Poligrip!

Interestingly enough, this ancient denture still shares some features with its modern counterparts. Today we use plastic or porcelain teeth, but removable partial dentures still utilize a metal framework for rigidity. While you won't find a denture held in with strings, many appliances have wire clasps that achieve a similar function. Overall, the similarities are striking, though we much prefer today's offerings!

With the advent of implant dentistry, many patients may think of dentures as ancient history. However, they are still an important and viable option for replacing lost teeth. If you would like to know more about your choices in completing your smile, please give our office a call!

Source