Traditional Dentures vs. Implant-Supported
Although the main part of the dentures, which is the teeth, is generally the same in both traditional dentures and implant-supported dentures, the way that they are worn is completely different.
Traditional
Traditional dentures include artificial custom-made gums and teeth made to give you the functions of your teeth back. With traditional dentures, generally, there is some shifting while doing daily activities such as eating. In some cases, denture adhesive is given to keep them in place.
Since it is impossible to completely prevent shifting of the denture, in some cases, patients can suffer from painful gum sores.
Implant-Supported
With implant-supported dentures, the goal of giving you back daily functions is the same as the traditional dentures. The only difference between the two is what is holding the dentures in place.
To offer more support, four dental implants are surgically placed into the jaw bone on both the upper and lower arches. Dentures are then made to fasten securely into the implants which makes it so that there is no shifting when wearing dentures.
Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures
- Because dentures are secured into place, it prevents annoying shifting which ultimately means no gum sores will develop
- Implants allow your jaw bone to be stimulated while chewing. Stimulation helps the bone and the soft tissues from deteriorating
Technology Used
Digital radiographs allow the dentist to zoom in for a clearer view of the implant area. Dentists take intraoral or extraoral radiographs, which are immediately viewable on a computer. Intraoral cameras capture precise photos of the patient’s teeth for both the dentist and patient to view. The camera is about the size of a pen and is minimally invasive. 3D/digital impressions are the latest technology for creating a precise impression of your entire mouth. These impressions help the dentist create your perfect set of dentures.
Talk to the Professionals
Receiving a full set of dentures is a big deal and should be handled in the right way to be sure you are getting the best. If you have been thinking about dentures, please come in and talk to us at Hill Avenue Dental located in Spirit Lake, Iowa. We will walk you through the process and help you choose an option that is best for you.