We have all seen the way dentures remain characterized in the media. They’re often depicted as ill-fitting, uncomfortable, and likely to pop out at any time. It’s a gross exaggeration that should never be conflated with wearing dentures in real life. However, there are some real downsides to permanent denture use if they aren’t supported by dental implants. To help you make an informed decision, let’s take a closer look at the differences between traditional and implant-supported dentures.  And why choose implant-supported dentures.

What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?

Implant-supported dentures, also sometimes known as all on 4 teeth replacements, are just like traditional dentures with one major exception. Unlike traditional dentures, they have a rooted support structure that uses four dental implants to hold your dentures in place. These dental implants are drilled through the jawbone and provide unmatched support. Your dentures simply lock into place, taking all of the concern over denture movement out of the equation. 

How Do We Place the Implants?

Dental implants may require strong local anesthetic or general anesthetic, depending on preference. Before placement, your Los Angeles periodontist will take x-rays of your jaw in order to determine where they can safely place the four dental implants on each arch without the use of a bone graft. 

Once you’re completely numb, the process is relatively straightforward. Your periodontist will make a small cut in your gum to expose the bone. From there, they will drill a hole just big enough to fit the post of the dental implant. The post comes from a medical-grade titanium alloy, ensuring strength and biocompatibility. It essentially replaces the root of your tooth, giving your jaw bone a direct connection to your prosthetic teeth. 

With the dental implants in place, your prosthodontist will be ready to move forward with your teeth in a day procedure. We attach precision screws to the tops of your dental implants, allowing them to secure your dentures. As a result of this procedure, you can literally walk out with a full set of prosthetic teeth the same day, and you’ll never have to worry about your dentures randomly shifting or falling out while you talk or eat. 

Why Choose Implant-Supported Dentures?

The improved comfort and confidence should make implant-supported dentures more appealing. But we have even better reasons to choose implant-supported dentures. The primary benefit of implant-supported dentures is long-term bone health. The implants placed in your jaw don’t just hold your dentures in place. They also remind your jaw bone to replace old bone tissue with new tissue every time you chew.

Normally, this communication would occur via the root of your tooth, but the post of the implant works just as well. With implant-supported dentures, your jaw will continue to remodel, preventing further bone loss. As a result, you should notice far fewer changes to your facial structure, and your dentures will have a much more permanent fit thanks to the maintenance of your jaw. In the long run, the reduced necessity for fittings may even make implant-supported dentures more cost-effective than traditional dentures. 

The Truth About Traditional Dentures

Traditional dentures have come a long way. They’re more comfortable and secure than ever before, and they are a great option for a lot of patients. However, there’s no denying the superiority of implant-supported dentures. There are more upfront costs, but years of enjoying a healthy jaw and an unwavering smile are usually worth it.