Denture Implants
There are several different types of denture implants available, all of which can be excellent treatment options for patients who are missing teeth. For patients who are missing most or all of their teeth and are looking for a permanent fixed solution, an implant supported denture or implant supported bridge will provide the results you are looking for. For patients who would prefer to have an implant with a removable denture, an implant retained denture will be your best treatment option.
To help better understand the different types of denture implants and their general benefits and drawbacks, please refer to the following.
Fixed Full-Arch Denture Implant
Often referred to as All-on-4, All-on-6, or All-on-8, this is a popular treatment option for people who want a permanent solution that will look and feel just like your natural teeth. This is accomplished by the placement of four to eight implants into your jawbone to which your crowns will be affixed. On average, this procedure costs $25,000 or more, depending on the number of implants necessary and whether additional procedures need to be performed. If you are missing most or all of your teeth and are looking for a permanent solution, this is a wonderful denture implant treatment option.
Implant Supported Overdenture and Telescopic Prosthesis
Unlike fixed full-arch denture implants, implanted supported overdenture and telescopic prosthesis is not fixed, but rather removable. The procedure is similar in natured to the fixed full-arch denture implant in that four or more implants are placed in your jaw. Once in place, your removable prosthesis can attach to these implants. The cost for this treatment averages around $23-$30,000, and will be determined by how many implants are placed, whether a telescope or metal support bar is used, the materials used, and whether additional procedures are needed. Obviously the biggest difference between the overdenture and the fixed full-arch denture implant is that you will need to remove your appliance each night to clean it. For some this may be considered a disadvantage, but for others this is a preferred feature, as they are easier to clean. This procedure is most typically recommended for patients with a high upper smile line and for people who have lost a lot of bone and require the lip support.
Implant Retained Overdenture
The implant retained overdenture consists of a removable appliance and two or more implants and is very similar in appearance to implant supported overdentures, The cost for two implants averages around $6,500-$8,000, which is typically all that is required for the lower jaw. If the missing teeth are in the upper jaw, at least four implants will be required, which will increase the total cost by about $5,000. This is one of the most affordable denture implant treatment options and will provide much more support than dentures, though you may still experience some sore spots. This option also provides less stability than the other treatment options and may require occasional relining.
Which Treatment Option is Right For Me?
Which denture implant is best suited for you will depend on your personal treatment goals, whether financial constraints are of concern, and the state of your overall oral and physical health. If you are interested in seeing if denture implants are right for you, schedule a consultation with your periodontist, who can perform an evaluation and discuss your options.
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