Implants can secure your dentures in place while you are wearing them (implant retained dentures). And because they keep the teeth securely in place while you eat or talk, they really are an improvement over standard dentures.
Traditional denture problems
Although they have been a great option for many years, traditional dentures on occasion can be a difficult device for people to live with, especially the lower set.
Dentures always had a couple of design issues:
- Essentially, the tongue can get in the way of the lower set of dentures, and occasionally serves to dislodge them. This can be uncomfortable and embarrassing for the patient.
- Upper dentures aren’t as problematic staying in place, but instead will often obscure the palate, which unfortunately can reduce the enjoyment in eating.
So along comes the Implant Retained Denture.
Because of the expense of multiple dental implants, if there are a number of teeth to be replaced, the retained denture reduces the number of implants required.
The resulting cost is lower, and the problems above are solved. A great solution!
The aesthetics are much closer these days, so there is less difference between the porcelain and the acrylic dentures.
Whatever someone’s circumstances, it is a decision that will be based around levels of comfort, budget, discretion and the length of time they can be relied on to continue working for you.
We will always outline all the options and answer any questions before offering a course of treatment. There is never a time pressure and people can take their time in considering what’s the right option, for them.
Other Considerations
Unlike the standard Dental Implant bridge solution, it is slightly bulkier, and still has to be removed for cleaning, but a very good option. Particularly if the person is used to wearing dentures, it will be an improvement in the quality of life!
Although ‘dental implant’ sounds as if it is a major undertaking, because we’re not dealing with ‘nerves’ it is more ‘uncomfortable’ than a painful procedure.