Are you seeking a more stable alternative to regular dentures to replace all of your missing teeth? If so, you might want to consider implant-supported or implant-retained dentures. They represent the latest in dental technology, providing patients with stronger, more stable support for their prosthetic teeth.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the difference between these two types of tooth replacement options. We hope this can help you decide which one is suited to your needs. Read on to learn more!
What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?
An implant-supported denture is a treatment for replacing missing teeth. Different from traditional dentures, they are supported by dental implants surgically inserted into the jawbone and hold the dentures in place.
In most cases, it takes between six and eight implants to hold an implant-supported denture in place. Because of this, there is no need for adhesives to keep them secured.
Implant-supported dentures are usually made of artificial teeth with no plastic base since they are no longer needed for retention. Because of this, a more natural look is created.
Implant-supported dentures are ideal for those who are looking for long-term tooth replacements. It can provide many years of service compared to traditional options. It also provides better comfort, security, and convenience than removable dentures. They can improve your quality of life if you want to smile with confidence again.
What Are Implant-Retained Dentures?
Implant-retained dentures are a modern tooth replacement option that provides a more secure and reliable way to address tooth loss.
Unlike conventional dentures, implant-retained dentures use 2-4 implants inserted into the jaw bone to firmly secure the denture. They are made of false teeth and gum base material and look and feel just like real teeth.
Implant-retained dentures are ideal for patients who have experienced minimal bone loss. They are also for people who want a more secure dental restoration than what traditional dentures can provide.

How Do Implant-Supported Dentures Differ From Implant-Retained Dentures?
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, implant-supported dentures and implant-retained dentures are two popular solutions. Although they are quite similar, key differences differentiate implant-supported and implant-retained dentures.
- Implant-supported dentures use multiple implants for stability — usually six or more. On the other hand, implant-retained dentures rely on just 2-4 implant fixtures to retain an entire arch of teeth. They also use an additional abutment component.
- Implant-supported dentures need more of the surrounding tissue to be healthy. Meanwhile, implant-retained dentures will require more bone support to be built up if needed.
- In terms of anchoring design, implant-supported dentures have a bar and clip system. This helps keep them secure. In contrast, implant-retained dentures feature individual abutments which connect directly with the implants.
- With installation timeframes, implant-supported dentures are generally installed faster than implant-retained ones, as they typically require only one surgery per arch. In contrast, implant-retained involves multiple surgical procedures over a much longer timeline.
- Implant-supported dentures may carry a higher price tag. This is due to the increased number of dental implants and superior quality materials utilised in their production.
- Implant-retained dentures provide a secure and reliable alternative to traditional denture treatments. They are fastened directly onto titanium implants and can be removed by the patient. In contrast, implant-supported options are fixed and can only be removed by a dentist.
Knowing these differences between the two types of implant dentures is important. Patients can make an informed decision based on their budget and desired outcome.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Implant-Supported Dentures?
Implant-supported dentures are a viable option for those who don’t want to deal with the hassle of traditional dentures. They’re a newer technology, but they still come with advantages and potential drawbacks.
Advantages of Implant-supported dentures
- Faster installation
- Faster healing and recovery time
- More stable
Disadvantages of Implant-supported dentures
- More expensive
- Cannot be removed
Implant-supported dentures may seem intimidating at first. But depending on your needs and lifestyle preferences, they may be ideal for you.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Implant-Retained Dentures?
Unlike traditional dentures, implant dentures help prevent bone loss and stimulate bone growth, making them a good alternative treatment. But just like implant-supported dentures, implant-retained dentures also have pros and cons.
Advantages of Implant-retained dentures
- Less expensive
- Removable
- Easier cleaning
- Lesser sore spots
Disadvantages of Implant-retained dentures
- Requires more bone support
- May require additional procedures. This includes a bone graft procedure if there is no sufficient bone present.
- Involves multiple surgical procedures
- Longer healing and recovery period
Both types of dentures are viable replacement teeth options. Ultimately, it is up to you and your dentist to decide which of the two implant dentures suits your needs.
Can I Convert My Traditional Dentures to Implant-Supported or Implant-Retained Dentures?
It is possible to convert an existing denture into an implant-supported prosthesis. However, there are many factors to consider.
Every patient’s dental needs are different. The decision between a conversion or having a new prosthesis depends on numerous factors. This includes things like:
- Design of the final denture
- Position of implant placement in relation to existing contours
- Jaw/gum anatomy
- Condition and goals for treatment
These are all taken into account when determining which route is suited for a patient’s care.
What Factors Should I Consider in Determining Whether Implant-Supported or Implant-Retained Dentures Are a Suitable Option?
When choosing between implant-supported or implant-retained dentures, there are several factors to consider:
- Diet:
If you constantly eat hard-to-chew food, consider opting for implant-supported dentures. They provide stronger stability, so those tougher cuts of meat may be more tolerated. - Lifestyle:
If removable dentures do not appeal to you, or you require extra assurance in knowing your teeth will stay firmly in place, an implant-supported option could be the answer. - Health:
If you have medical conditions that could benefit from your teeth being supported at night, such as TMJ or sleep apnea, then having fixed dentures is a great solution. Implant-supported dentures offer greater strength and stability for improved health outcomes in these areas. - Cost:
Implant-retained dentures are an ideal treatment option for patients on a budget. Fewer implants mean more savings.
The ideal way to determine which type of implant denture is right for you is to speak with a qualified dental professional. They will review your oral health, lifestyle needs, and budget constraints. They will be able to recommend the most suitable solution for you to help you get the smile you desire.
Additionally, they will provide important information on the risks and benefits of each type of implant denture. With the right support, you’ll be able to enjoy a confident, beautiful smile for many years.
Final Thoughts
Implant-supported and implant-retained dentures are two related forms of prosthetic dental technology. They provide a more secure way to replace missing teeth. This gives denture wearers a more comfortable fit and greater stability than traditional dentures.
Knowing the difference between implant-supported and implant-retained dentures is key. Both require a significant investment of time and money. It’s essential to understand what each type of denture offers. Your implant dentist can provide information on the risks and benefits of each type.
Book an appointment through our website or call Clear Choice Dental today. Our experienced staff will be happy to provide recommendations tailored specifically to your oral health needs. We want you to regain confidence with a full set of healthy teeth – without the hassle!
Frequently Asked Questions
Single implants are ideal if you’re looking to replace a single missing, broken, or decayed tooth. They provide the most natural-looking results while also restoring functionality.
Single implants involve the insertion of an implant post in the jawbone. This serves as an artificial tooth, mimicking the look and feel of a real tooth. After the post fuses with the bone, an abutment is attached to it to serve as a connector for a single crown.
With single implants, you can replace your tooth without needing to trim adjacent natural teeth. They are designed for long-term stability and comfort and help prevent bone loss in the jaw.
Yes, there are foods that you can’t eat with dental implants. After a patient has received implants, it’s typically recommended that softer foods (like mashed potatoes or applesauce) be eaten for a few weeks until the implant area has healed properly.
Here are some things to keep in mind when eating solid food with dental implants:
- Eating acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes can cause pain on the implant site. Avoid them as the implant site heals.
- Spicy food like hot peppers and salsa should also be avoided. They could irritate oral tissues around the implant area.
- Hot liquids like coffee or soups must also be avoided during the first few days after surgery. They can cause re-bleeding of the wound.
- Be mindful of chewy foods such as jerky or tough meat. It can damage the abutment by bending it.
- Beware of crunchy snacks and hard foods. Nuts, chips, popcorn, apples or carrots can cause chipping of the implant.
- Steer clear of gummy candies, taffy, and caramels. All that stickiness can cause damage around or on the implant itself. Peanut butter, molasses, and honey must also be avoided.
- Avoid sugary treats like candy, cake, and ice cream. They could create an environment for bacteria growth. This can lead to plaque formation and, eventually, gum disease.
With careful attention to these few considerations, eating with new dental implants can be an enjoyable experience.
Dental implants, when properly cared for, can last for many years. Good oral hygiene routines are essential to preserving the lifespan of your dental implant. Here are five tips on how to properly clean your dental implants:
- Always brush after meals with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Take special care around the implant site.
- Floss once daily to remove plaque between the implant and under the gum tissue.
- Use an interdental cleaner such as picks or water irrigators. Use them to clean hard-to-reach spaces between the implant and your teeth. These are areas that normal brushing and flossing cannot reach.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings every four to six months.
- If you wear dentures or partial dentures, they should be removed daily. Brush them before reinserting them into your mouth.
Following these tips can help you achieve optimal dental implant health. They also help promote good oral hygiene.
Dental implants help replace missing teeth and restore smiles with long-lasting, natural-looking results. Those considering dental implants may wonder if they are worth the initial investment. The answer is an emphatic yes.
Implants offer numerous dental benefits, including:
- Greater comfort while eating due to a more effective bite
- Improved speech as teeth don’t slip around in the mouth
- Protection for adjacent healthy teeth, preventing them from shifting out of place
- Preservation of bone structure
- Gum recession prevention
- Bone growth stimulation
For these reasons, dental implants are well worth their initial investment. You can enjoy tooth replacement that offers years of lasting satisfaction!