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The Key Differences Between Implant-Retained and Traditional Dentures

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On December 16, 2024
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Dentures are among the most popular solutions for replacing missing teeth. They are available in two main types: traditional dentures and implant-retained dentures. Both options aim to restore your smile and the functionality of your teeth, but they differ significantly in terms of stability, comfort, and durability.

If you’re considering dentures, understanding these differences is crucial to making the right choice for your needs. In this article, we’ll explore the key distinctions between these two options to help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive in!

What Are Implant-Retained Dentures and Traditional Dentures?

Traditional Dentures

Traditional dentures are removable prosthetic teeth designed to replace missing teeth. They are often made of acrylic or a combination of metal and acrylic, and are customized to fit the unique contours of your mouth. 

Traditional dentures are available in two main types: complete dentures (which replace an entire arch of teeth) and partial dentures (which replace a few teeth). Both options are designed to restore tooth function and enhance your smile.

While traditional dentures can improve your ability to chew and speak, regular care is essential to keep them in optimal condition. For example, you should soak them regularly in a special solution when not in use to prevent warping. 

Avoiding hard or sticky foods can also help reduce the risk of fractures. Additionally, regular visits to your dentist are necessary to adjust the fit and ensure continued comfort.

Implant-Retained Dentures

Implant-retained dentures, also known as implant-supported dentures, are dentures anchored securely to your jawbone using small titanium posts called dental implants. These implants are surgically placed into your jawbone, where they fuse with the bone over time, creating a solid foundation and offering unmatched stability compared to traditional dentures.

Unlike traditional dentures, implant-retained dentures do not require adhesives or suction to stay in place. They provide a stable, more natural-feeling fit, allowing you to engage in daily activities like eating and talking with greater comfort. This design also leaves the roof of your mouth open, enhancing taste sensations and restoring your ability to fully enjoy food.

Now that we have a general understanding of traditional dentures and implant-retained dentures, let’s examine the key differences between these two types. We’ll explore them one by one.

Stability: Staying in Place

Stability: Staying in Place

Traditional Dentures

One of the primary challenges of traditional dentures is their tendency to slip or shift during eating or speaking. This movement can lead to discomfort and embarrassment, often necessitating frequent adjustments or the use of adhesives to keep them securely in place.

Implant-Retained Dentures

Implant-retained dentures address the issue of shifting by securely attaching to dental implants embedded in the jawbone. These implants act as stable anchors, holding the dentures firmly in position. Special attachments, known as abutments, “lock” the dentures in place, eliminating the risk of slipping or shifting.

Because they do not rely on suction for stability, implant-retained dentures leave the roof of the mouth uncovered. This design restores taste sensations and significantly enhances the overall dining experience. The secure fit also provides superior comfort and a more natural feel compared to traditional dentures.

Durability: Longevity and Maintenance

Durability: Longevity and Maintenance

Traditional Dentures

Traditional dentures, also known as removable false teeth, are a popular choice for replacing missing teeth. While they’re effective their lifespan depends heavily on maintenance. With proper care, traditional dentures typically last between 5 and 10 years, though research shows an average of 10.1 years for maxillary (upper jaw) dentures and 8.6 years for mandibular (lower jaw) dentures.

To maximize their longevity, follow these essential care tips:

  • Daily Cleaning: Brush dentures twice a day using a soft-bristled brush and mild soap. Avoid toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive and damage the surface.
  • Soaking Overnight: Always soak dentures in lukewarm water or a denture solution when not in use. Never use hot water, as it can warp the material.
  • Proper Storage: Handle dentures with care. Store them over a towel or sink filled with water to cushion potential falls. 
  • Regular Dental Visits: Visit your dentist every six months for adjustments and professional cleaning to maintain their fit and functionality.

Despite their durability, traditional dentures are prone to natural wear and tear, requiring eventual replacement. Choosing a reputable dental lab for quality craftsmanship is critical to ensure a proper fit and durability.

Implant-Retained Dentures

Implant-retained dentures consist of two components: the dental implants and the prosthetic denture. The implants themselves are incredibly durable, often lasting 30 years or more with proper care. The denture portion, however, may need replacement every 10 to 15 years due to wear and tear.

To maintain the longevity of implant-retained dentures, consider these care tips:

  • Brush and floss regularly to remove debris and plaque.
  • Visit your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and checkups.
  • Avoid excessively hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that could damage the prosthetic.
  • Refrain from using your teeth as tools (e.g., opening packages).
  • Wear a mouthguard during sports or activities with a risk of oral trauma.

Implant-retained dentures offer superior durability compared to traditional options, making them a worthwhile investment for long term oral health. 

Read more: Why Denture Care Requires an Annual Check-Up

Comfort: A Natural Feel

Comfort: A Natural Feel

Traditional Dentures

It can take several weeks for wearers to adjust to traditional dentures. During this period, especially for new users, some discomfort is common as the mouth adapts to the presence of the dentures. However, this discomfort typically subsides within a few weeks.

To minimize discomfort, it is crucial for dentures to fit properly. Dentures custom-fitted to the contours of your mouth reduce movement, helping to prevent pain and improve overall comfort. Despite a good fit, traditional dentures still rely on adhesives or suction to remain in place, which may cause occasional slipping during eating or speaking.

Implant-Retained Dentures

Unlike traditional dentures, implant-retained dentures provide an unparalleled level of comfort. By simulating the function of natural tooth roots, dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and preserving facial structure—issues often associated with traditional dentures.

These dentures offer a secure, natural fit, eliminating the risk of slipping or shifting during daily activities. Patients with implant-retained dentures also enjoy a significant improvement in chewing function, with efficiency reaching up to 100% compared to the 15% typically offered by traditional dentures. 

Additionally, their open design leaves the roof of the mouth uncovered, restoring taste sensations and greatly enhancing the overall dining experience.

Why Choose Westmount Denture Clinic for Your Denture Needs?

Choosing between implant-retained and traditional dentures is a significant decision that depends on your needs, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Traditional dentures are an affordable option and effectively restore tooth function and appearance. However, they may require more frequent adjustments and maintenance over time.

On the other hand, implant-retained dentures provide superior stability, comfort, and durability, with the added benefit of improved oral health and more natural feel. Understanding the key differences is the first step, but choosing the right provider is just as important.

At Westmount Denture Clinic, we specialize in helping patients navigate these decisions with confidence. Whether you’re considering traditional dentures or exploring the advantages of implant-retained options, our team is committed to delivering personalized care and exceptional results. 

Why Westmount Denture Clinic?

  • Decades of Expertise: With over 30 years of experience, Westmount Denture Clinic has become a trusted name in denture solutions. Our skilled professionals ensure each denture is crafter for maximum comfort, durability, and aesthetics.
  • Patient-Focused Care: We prioritize your needs and comfort, guiding you through every step of your denture journey. From consultation to follow-up care, our compassionate team works closely with you to create a stress-free experience.
  • State-of-the-Art Technology: Using advanced dental technology, we achieve precise fittings and long-lasting results. Whether it’s traditional dentures or implant-retained solutions, we combine innovation with expertise to ensure the best possible outcome.

Ready to restore your smile and confidence? Schedule a consultation with Westmount Denture Clinic today and let us help you find the perfect denture solution tailored to your unique needs!

Newer Find Out Why Westmount Denture Clinic is Edmonton’s Best Denture Choice
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Implant-retained Dentures

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On July 14, 2024
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Unstable Dentures

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    Jagmeet Pannu
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    I took my grandma to get dentures from westmount denture. They provide amazing services. Everybody there is very welcoming. My grandma has some joint issues in the face . We got dentures from other places before but they never fitted good. We are so relieved we found this clinic. Michael is an amazing denturist. Grandma never had any issues after getting dentures from here.
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    I have had the best experience with getting my full set of dentures from Westmount Denture Clinic! They are very professional yet personable. Robyn and the other ladies in reception are fantastic; I have been working with Michael and am impressed more and more every time I see him. I recommend Westmount Denture Clinic wholeheartedly. They’re the best and I’m the luckiest! Sandi MacPherson-Doy
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    If I could leave 10 star for Mike even that is not enough. I visited him multiple times for my dad's denture and looks like my dad had some difficulties with his new denture and had to visit multiple times to get it fixed and adjusted. With our every new visit Mike and all the staff at clinic become more and more friendly and showed huge respect for my elderly father, rather than getting frustrated with a difficult patient on each visit. Mike at personal level provided some services out of respect to my dad which I can't even mention here. I am very Thankful for his services and whole team at Westmount Denture.
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    These guys provide an amazing service. I am a dentist and I can attest to how happy my patients have been with the care that Michael takes to make the dentures. Marisa is truly exceptional too. The humour and energy she brings is infectious.
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    I have had an exceptional experience at this clinic. Robyn, Michael, and Parm are very professional. I searched for a number of years for anyone to accept me as a patient. My needs are not so common, these issues made everyone turn me away. I am also a difficult patient. Many referrals later landed me at Westmount Denture Clinic. They welcomed me & I felt had confidence in them. My results were amazing! If everyone could have Michael as their denturist we would all be smiling, bright. I know I am fortunate to have found this office.
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    Hello everyone reading, I’m letting everyone know about millwoods and the Denturist my dentist referred me to see , Parm S.Kailay , being a first timer to dentures I really had no idea what to expect, on that note I soon come to realize I was in the hands of one of the best . To make this short and sweet I love my new smile and all my denture wearing friends all been asking me who did my teeth.

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    Are you currently searching for denture implants in Edmonton? You’ve come to the right place! However, before entrusting yourself to this service for your oral health, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of what implant-retained dentures are. 

    Implant-retained dentures are a type of overdenture that is supported and held in place by dental implants. These implants, titanium posts placed surgically into the jawbone, serve as artificial tooth roots, allowing the denture to attach securely. Recommended for individuals who have lost most or all of their teeth, implant-retained dentures offer improved chewing efficiency and oral health.

    Their primary advantage lies in enhanced stability compared to traditional dentures, preventing slipping and movement. Ideal for patients with sufficient jawbone density, implant-retained dentures provide better comfort and chewing function while preserving jawbone health by preventing bone loss common with traditional dentures.

    Both implant-retained and implant-supported dentures involve the use of dental implants, but they differ in their support mechanisms:

    Implant-Retained Dentures

    Implant-retained dentures need fewer implants (typically two to four) and partially rely on gum tissue for support. They clip or snap into place, making them removable for easy cleaning. They are a cost-effective option, offering stability and improved denture security without the need for extensive bone augmentation. Implant-retained dentures provide a balance between conventional dentures and implant-supported options, making them suitable for patients with limited bone availability.

    Implant-Supported Dentures

    Implant-supported dentures are full-mouth restorations entirely supported by dental implants, requiring six to eight implants. This type directs all biting forces onto the implants, providing the most natural and effective bite, ideal for eating tough foods. They offer options like hybrid screw-retained dentures, fixed zirconia bridges, or crown and bridgework, closely mimicking natural teeth. Due to the higher number of implants and quality materials, they are more expensive and may require bone augmentation.

    Given the options, which of these two would be the most suitable choice? Choosing between the two dentures services depends on individual needs, oral health, and personal preferences. A thorough consultation with a denturist can help determine the best option based on the patient’s jawbone destiny, desired stability, and budget considerations.

    While implant-retained dentures are highly effective, potential problems can include:

    Infection: Infection around the implants can occur if proper oral hygiene is not maintained.

    Irritation: The gum tissue can become irritated if the dentures do not fit properly.

    Implant Damage: The implants themselves can become damaged if subjected to excessive force or improper care.

    Peri-implantitis: Peri-implantitis is a condition where the gum tissue surrounding the implant becomes inflamed, leading to complications such as implant failure and loss of retention.

    Mucositis: Mucositis is a common complication that can occur due to poor oral hygiene or inadequate maintenance, leading to inflammation and discomfort.

    Then, if something like this happens, how can you prevent and overcome this problem?

    Maintain Oral Hygiene: Regular cleaning and proper oral hygiene practices can prevent infections.

    Regular Check-ups: Regular visits to your denturist ensure that your dentures fit correctly and that any issues are addressed promptly.

    Gentle Care: Avoid putting undue stress on your implants by eating carefully and following your denturist’s advice. 

    Regular Check-Ups: Regular check-ups are crucial to ensure that your implant-retained dentures remain in good condition. These visits allow your denturist to monitor your oral health, make necessary adjustments, and provide professional cleaning to prevent complications.

    Higher Cost

    Implant-retained dentures typically come with a higher cost compared to other denture options due to the complexity of the procedure and the materials used. 

    Lengthy Process

    The process of placing an implant and attaching the denture can take several months, involving multiple steps and a healing period.

    Risk of Medical Complications

    There is a risk of medical complications, such as infection or implant failure, especially if the patient has underlying health conditions that affect healing.

    Solutions from Westmount Denture Clinic

    But don’t worry, as the best denture implants Edmonton, Westmount Denture Clinic mitigates these disadvantages by using the latest technology to streamline the installation process and providing comprehensive pre and post-surgical care to minimize risks and ensure successful outcomes.

    Implant dentures restore your ability to chew and eat normally, allowing you to enjoy a varied and nutritious diet. The enhanced stability of implant dentures means you can eat most foods without worrying about your dentures slipping or causing discomfort.

    During the initial adjustment period, it is advisable to stick to softer foods and gradually reintroduce harder foods as you become more accustomed to your dentures. Avoid extremely hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could potentially damage the dentures or implants.

    To maintain the cleanliness and longevity of implant-retained dentures, regular cleaning is crucial. Follow these helpful tips to ensure your implant dentures stay clean and well-maintained:

    Remove and Rinse: Remove your dentures and rinse them under running water to remove food particles.

    Brush Your Dentures: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive denture cleanser to clean all surfaces of the dentures.

    Clean Your Mouth: Brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth to maintain overall oral hygiene.

    Use recommended Products: To clean your implant-retained dentures, use denture-specific cleaning products and avoid regular toothpaste, which can be too abrasive. Denture soaking solutions can also help keep your dentures clean and fresh.

    Prevent Plaque Buildup: Regular brushing and soaking can prevent plaque buildup on your dentures. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular professional cleaning can ensure your implants and gums remain healthy.

    Latest Materials and Technology

    At Westmount Denture Clinic, best denture implants Edmonton, we use the latest materials and technology to ensure your denture implants in Edmonton are of the highest quality. This commitment to innovation ensures that our patients receive durable, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing dentures.

    Experienced Denturist Team

    Our team of experienced and skilled denturists is dedicated to providing exceptional care. As denture implants in Edmonton, our team has extensive experience handling various cases, ensuring that each patient receives personalized and effective treatment.

    Comprehensive Consultation and Post-Installation Care

    WDC, as denture implants Edmonton offers thorough personal consultations to understand your specific needs and tailor the best solutions for you. Our comprehensive post-installation care services include regular check-ups, adjustments, and maintenance to ensure your dentures continue to fit well and function optimally.

    Dedication to Excellence

    WDC, as denture implants Edmonton is dedicated to providing the best service and maintaining patient satisfaction. Our meticulous manufacturing and installation process ensures that every denture implant meets our high standards of quality and durability.

    Thorough Manufacturing and Installation Process

    We follow a rigorous process to ensure that your denture implants are perfectly fitted and comfortable. From the initial consultation to the final fitting, we pay attention to every detail to ensure the best results.

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