Are Implant-Supported Removable Prosthetics Replacing Traditional Dentures?
Traditional removable dentures have been a long-standing solution for individuals experiencing tooth loss. However, they do not provide the ideal experience for many patients. Common issues include the dentures losing their fit over time, slipping while eating, talking, or smiling, and creating problems with chewing and biting. Additionally, mouth sores and speech difficulties caused by denture use can negatively affect a patient’s quality of life.
To address these challenges, implant-supported removable prosthetics offer an innovative solution that enhances both comfort and functionality. Thanks to advancements in modern dentistry, dentures supported by dental implants now provide a more stable, reliable, and natural user experience.
What Sets Implant-Supported Prosthetics Apart?
While traditional dentures are held in place on the gums and palate through suction, implant-supported dentures are anchored to titanium dental implants, which are inserted into the jawbone and integrate with it (osseointegration). These dental implants function like the natural roots of teeth.
Implant-supported dentures prevent slippage during chewing and speaking. Moreover, compared to traditional dentures, they reduce the pressure on the gums, offering a more comfortable experience. Since they don’t require complete coverage of the upper palate, the feeling of volume inside the mouth is reduced, the sense of taste is preserved, and patients feel more at ease.
Advantages of Implant-Supported Prosthetics
- Stronger and Safer Prosthetic Experience Implant-supported dentures do not slip or fall out while speaking, smiling, or eating. Since there’s no need for denture adhesives, they offer a more hygienic and practical solution for the patient.
- Improved Chewing Function Traditional dentures can limit a patient's chewing ability and make it difficult to eat certain foods. Implant-supported dentures allow for a stronger chewing force, making it easier to consume even tough foods.
- Preservation of Jawbone and Prevention of Bone Loss After tooth loss, jawbone resorption can occur over time. Implants help stimulate the bone, preventing bone loss. Since the bone is continuously stimulated during biting and chewing due to the implants, the bone tissue is preserved.
- Comfortable and Natural-Looking Use Traditional dentures may not fit properly, causing them to frequently fall out, create sores in the mouth, or make speaking difficult. Implant-supported dentures provide a more natural feel and are less bulky in the mouth, offering a more comfortable experience.
- Preservation of Taste Sensation Taste sensation is not limited to the tongue; the palate also plays an important role in the process. Since implant-supported dentures do not fully cover the upper palate, they allow for better taste perception. Additionally, the negative impact of denture adhesives on taste is eliminated.
- Aesthetic and Confidence-Boosting Smile Implant-supported dentures eliminate concerns about slippage, allowing patients to speak, laugh, and eat freely. They positively impact social life by preventing sagging and collapse, providing a more youthful and aesthetic appearance.
Conclusion: Are Implant-Supported Prosthetics Replacing Traditional Dentures?
While traditional removable dentures may still be an option for some patients, implant-supported dentures offer far superior advantages in terms of comfort, stability, and function. With a more natural feel, stronger chewing ability, prevention of bone loss, and a confidence-boosting experience, implant-supported prosthetics are increasingly preferred today.
To achieve a more comfortable, secure, and healthy smile, consult with your dentist to see if implant-supported prosthetics are the right choice for you.
Wishing you healthy smiles.
Dr. Cem Harbalıoğlu
Oral and Dental Health Specialist
