Implant-supported dentures: procedures, benefits [Permanent Solution 2024]

  • International ClinicsInternational Clinics
  • 153
  • 21 November 2024

Do you suffer from the instability of traditional dentures? Here is the best option now: implant-supported dentures.

In this article, we explain what dental implants for dentures are. What are the benefits of implant-supported dentures for seniors? How to care for implant-supported dentures, and what are the differences between implant-supported dentures and regular dentures? And how long do implant-supported dentures last? So keep reading for more.

What are Implant-supported dentures?

 Implant-supported dentures are removable dental prostheses that incorporate attachments to implants for added stability and function beyond that afforded by a conventional denture. They provide you with a more stable choice while chewing or speaking, and they also vary in options according to each patient's needs.

Differences between traditional dentures and implant-supported dentures

image explains implant-supported-dentures-vs traditional dentures

One thing that both traditional and implant dentures have in common is that they are the best option for restoring a smile without requiring surgery. However, traditional dentures differ from implant-supported dentures in several points, including:

  • Stabilization mechanism

Traditional dentures require a fixation cream or paste to ensure they stay in the jawbone without moving, whereas implant-supported dentures do not need that, as they are protected by dental implants.

  • Maintaining jawbone

Traditional dentures do not help keep the jawbone strong; rather, over time, it loses its strength. In contrast, implant dentures stimulate the jawbone like natural teeth, increasing the jaw's strength and maintaining the overall shape of the face.

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Implant-supported denture types

mage explains types of implant-supported dentures

Dental implants support two main types of dentures, and the choice of the most suitable type for the individual depends on several personal factors, including oral health, the individual's medical history, and the dentist's assessment of the condition. The types include:

Fixed dentures supported by implants

These dentures are fixed to the dental implants without separation, meaning you cannot remove them at home and place them in a special cleaning solution. Instead, their cleaning relies on using a toothbrush like natural teeth. However, only the dentist can remove them periodically for examination.

Removable dentures supported by implants

Here, the implant-supported dentures are fixed onto the dental implants, and you can remove them yourself at home, clean them thoroughly, and reattach them.

Related article: Different Types of Dental Implants Explained: Find the Best Option for You

Implant-supported denture procedure

It is an oral device that replaces several teeth at once. It resembles a traditional denture fixed in the gums, but it differs from it in the mechanism of its fixation. It is fixed to the jawbone through dental implants (small posts that replace the roots of missing teeth), which makes it more stable when chewing and speaking.

Installing dental implant dentures requires several steps. Each patient's unique health condition will determine whether or not they need to go through all of them. These steps include the following:

Pre-implant-supported prosthesis

The treating physician needs to examine the oral health condition and then determine whether there are damaged teeth that should be removed before starting. Also, in some medical cases, the patient may have low bone density, so the doctor might recommend performing a first bone grafting process to ensure the success of the implant stability and, consequently, the denture stability of the prosthetics dependent on them.

Placing dental implants:

To replace the agreed-upon damaged teeth, the dentist first places dental implants, which take 3 to 6 months to fuse with the jawbone. After that, you can utilize the prosthetic tools the dental implants support.

Dental impressions:

The doctor takes an impression of the upper and lower dental implants after they have healed in order to begin preparing your dentures.

Denture placement:

Ultimately, the physician installs the custom dentures for you and ensures they are properly secured with the previously prepared dental implants. The physician also provides some health guidelines to ensure the cleanliness and safety of the dentures, which should be followed.

All-on-4® vs. implant-supported dentures: What’s the difference?

"All-on-4®" describes a particular kind of fixed implant denture. With this technique, four dental implants replace an entire arch of lost teeth.

Implant-supported denture maintenance tips

The implant-supported dentures Aftercare is similar to personal dental care for natural teeth; implant-supported dentures require continuous maintenance and personal hygiene to ensure they last as long as possible. To achieve this, you can follow the following instructions:

  • Clean your dentures at least twice a day.
  • Keep the isolated denture in its solution throughout the night.
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean fixed dentures. 
  • Use sterilized dental floss to clean between the dental implants and keep them clean.

Related article: Smart Pediatric Dentistry: A New Exciting Way to Deliver Dental Procedures

Implant-supported denture recovery time

The recovery period depends on the healing from the dental implants, which takes 3 to 6 months. Then, the denture supported by the dental implants can be placed. It may take longer in some individual medical cases, especially those undergoing bone grafting before dental implants.

Pros and cons of implant-supported dentures

image explains implant-supported dentures

Implant-supported dentures have more advantages than disadvantages compared to traditional dentures. Below is an explanation of the main advantages and disadvantages of dentures supported by dental implants.

Benefits of implant-supported dentures

  • It is more stable in the mouth, making speaking easier and helping to increase the patient's confidence.
  • Implants stimulate the jawbone, acting as roots that stir nerves in the jaw. They look like natural teeth. Implants reinstate the health of the mouth, its functionality, and its appearance.
  • They tend to last longer than conventional dentures, provided the after-care instructions given by the doctor are followed.

Disadvantages of dentures supported by dental implants

Although these negatives are rare, especially with proper care of dentures supported by dental implants, they can still occur:

  • Oral infection.
  • Nerve damage.

Cost of implant-supported dentures vs traditional dentures

Generally, the overall cost of implant-supported dentures tends to be much higher than traditional dentures because of the complications of the procedure and the materials involved.

Lower denture implants typically cost between $10,000 and $20,000, depending on the specific needs and the number of implants required. Upper denture implants can range from $15,000 to $30,000.

In Turkey, dentures are generally more affordable, costing between $300 and $1,000, making them an attractive option for those seeking cost-effective dental solutions.

In our Internationalclinics, we offer the best implant-supported dentures with the highest quality materials and under the supervision of a skilled elite of doctors, in addition to the best price among all. The cost of a single jaw denture with us reaches $550. Contact us to learn more.

Related article:How Much Does a Dental Implant Cost? [prices 2024]

Implant-Supported Dentures Reviews

Implant-supported dentures are extremely well-reviewed for their stability and comfort, allowing people to enjoy a wider range of foods with less risk of denture slippage. Many patients said they look very natural, boosting their confidence. They also reduce bone loss by stimulating the jawbone. Some do point to the initial cost and surgical procedure as disadvantages. In general, these dentures receive praise for long-term effectiveness and benefits.

The bottom line:

Implant-supported dentures are an excellent choice for individuals looking to improve their smile's comfort and self-esteem or for those who are edentulous because they provide far more than just short-term solutions to improve the general quality of life. If you're considering this, don't hesitate to get your free medical consultation now.

Related article: Hollywood Smile in Turkey: Benefits & Costs

Implant Supported Dentures FAQs

What are the newest types of dentures?

Newer types of dentures are flexible, digital, and implant-supported, ensuring an exact fit for the patient's comfort.

Can implants be used with dentures?

Yes, dental implants can fix dentures, enhancing their stability and preventing any slippage during eating and speaking.

What is the best material for implant-supported dentures?

Whenever there is the need for implant-supported dentures, high-strength ceramics or acrylic are used due to their resilience and the natural appearance they will ensure.

How much do top denture implants cost?

The price range for top denture implants varies depending on the procedure type and level of complexity, but it ranges from $3000 to $6000.

How many implants are needed for an upper denture?

An upper denture usually involves the placement of 4 to 6 implants, which aid in the stability and support of the denture.

How much do dentures cost in Turkey?

In Turkey, dentures can cost from $300 to $1,000. This is considered very affordable compared to many other countries.

Which is cheaper, implants or dentures?

Dental implants may be more cost-effective than dentures, despite the former being less expensive initially.

Read more: All-on-4 Implants: The Ideal Solution for Lost Teeth Replacement

photos of before and after implant-supported dentures

photos of before and after implant-supported dentures