My Denture Clinic in Surrey Suggested Implant Dentures, Are they Right for Me?

Denturist Surrey

Dealing with tooth loss can be an emotionally and financially complicated time. On the one hand, you want to choose the option that will achieve the best cosmetic and functional results, but on the other hand, cost can be a concern. For individuals missing most or all of their teeth, dentures provide a practical solution. However, when it comes to dentures, you might have options. Depending on your oral health and budget, your Surrey area denture clinic might offer implant-supported dentures as a more permanent restoration treatment.

Implant Denture Vs. Traditional Denture

While both types of dentures offer many of the same benefits, there are some significant differences between traditional dentures and implant-supported dentures. When most people envision dentures, they are probably thinking of conventional dentures: a removable acrylic appliance with prosthetic teeth that rests on top of the gums and is held in place by natural suction and denture adhesives.

Implant dentures, on the other hand, offer a more permanent solution. Rather than a removable plate resting on the gums, implant dentures are secured to titanium posts surgically placed in the jawbone. These posts act like artificial tooth roots, providing a stable base for the denture and reducing the risk of slippage.

Why a Denturist Would Recommend Implant-Supported Dentures

The first thing to know about implant-supported dentures is that they are not right for everyone. The condition of your jawbone and your overall oral health will factor heavily in whether or not your denturist will offer implant dentures. For an implant to be successful, you need a sufficient amount of healthy jawbone to support the titanium posts; if your jawbone has deteriorated due to prolonged tooth loss or other conditions it increases the likelihood of implant failure and your denturist will probably offer an alternative instead.

If you are deemed to be a good candidate for implants your denturists will also consider factors like your lifestyle, budget, and long-term oral health goals before making a recommendation for implant dentures.

In some cases, a denturist might also recommend implant-supported dentures to patients who have struggled with discomfort or irritation from traditional dentures. However, long-term denture wearers may require bone grafting before making a switch, depending on the extent of jawbone recession they are experiencing.

Evaluating Cost vs. Benefits

The decision to choose implant-supported dentures often comes down to weighing the cost against the benefits. Traditional dentures have lower upfront costs and have an average life expectancy of 10 years. During that time there may be the need for adjustments or relining as the shape of your mouth changes, but these services are relatively affordable. Implant dentures on the other hand have a much higher initial expense but can last upwards of 20 years depending on how well the wearer maintains their oral hygiene. The implant itself will last a lifetime.

Timeline is another factor to consider. Traditional dentures typically require only a few weeks to go from initial consultation to appliance placement, after which only regular annual checkups are required. Some denture clinics in Surrey offer same-day dentures which means you leave with a complete (or partial) temporary set of dentures in one appointment. By comparison, implant dentures can take several weeks to several months to complete, depending on factors like bone grafting and healing time after tooth extraction.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your unique circumstances. Talking with your denturist about your budget, lifestyle, and oral health can help you make an informed decision. Whether you choose traditional or implant-supported dentures, the goal is the same: restoring your smile and improving your quality of life.