Difference Between Implant Retained Overdenture and Implant Supported Overdenture?
If you are shopping around for full arch replacement options, an implant supported denture is a really great option. As you consider which implant denture option is right for you, consider your health history, the root cause of your tooth loss, cost, and what you are looking for in your tooth replacement options.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental Implants are supportive artificial roots which are inserted into the jaw, through the gumline–typically in the place of a missing tooth. By filling the root of a previous tooth, the jaw is able to receive stimulation again, which prompts growth and activity of the cells. Without this activation, the patient may experience severe tissue loss and the shape of the jaw may reduce or weaken. With Implant Supported overdentures, the patient avoids this problem, because the implant itself becomes a part of the jaw, through a process called osseointegration.
What are the primary differences between Implant retained overdentures and Implant Supported Overdentures?
- Implant retained overdentures are essentially “snap-on” dentures. The implants function to hold the denture and help the patient function, but are removable easily by the patient. The patient can then clean and care for the dentures, or sleep without them for comfort. The disadvantage with implant retained overdentures is the tiny movements within the mouth. For some, the top arch overdentures can be uncomfortable, and can trigger the gag reflex due to the length of the top piece. Some patients also report some irritation during chewing and speaking with slight movement of the overdenture, but this can usually be tweaked by the manufacturer or your dentist.
- Implant Supported overdentures are a true replacement option. The dentures are placed, and the expectation is that they stay unless removed or altered by the dentist. The overdentures can still be removed promptly at the dentist, but otherwise the patient must live with and care for them as with original teeth. The main benefits are the durability. There is no discomfort reported in relation to the gag reflex, because the dentures are truly fitted to the gumline itself. The dentures should not wiggle or writhe throughout your daily activities. The dentures should function exactly like your original teeth, but will be made of a stronger and more durable material. Disadvantages would be the lack of control for removal, and in the event an anchor fails, or the denture partially disconnects, it could become uncomfortable.
What does it take to get implant supported dentures?
First, patients should see their dentist. Discuss whole health history, disease, and recent history of infections. Then the dentist should provide a thorough cleaning and a comprehensive x ray to determine the underlying healthy of the jaw itself. If the jawbone, gums, and mouth can handle the implant procedure, an anchor will be placed. The dental anchor placement is a short outpatient procedure, and multiple anchor can be placed at once. Somewhere between 2-6 anchors will need to be placed depending on the strength of the jawbone and the patient. Then, after a short recovery time, your new overdentures will be placed! Will they be implant supported or retained? Each patient is different.