Should I choose traditional full removable dentures or implant-supported over-dentures?

Both full dentures and implant-supported over-dentures are available at Red Hill Dental Practice. Patients often approach our team, trying to decide which to choose to restore their smiles. Let us evaluate the pros and cons of each to get a better understanding of which one might be right for you!

What are the pros and cons of traditional, removable full dentures vs. implant-retained over-dentures?

Pros of full dentures:

  • They are easily removable for cleaning and regular maintenance.
  • They are less expensive than implant-retained dentures.
  • Unlike implant-retained dentures, they do not require surgery.        

If a patient has severe bone loss, full dentures may be a better option than implant-retained dentures.

Cons of full dentures:

  • They can slip and cause discomfort or embarrassment in certain situations.
  • Full dentures require more maintenance than implant-retained dentures.
  • It may take time for the patient to become accustomed to having them in their mouths.
  • They may need to be re-fitted periodically as the jawbone structure changes.

Pros of implant-retained over-dentures:

  • Implant-retained over-dentures don’t slip and cause discomfort like full dentures can.
  • They provide more stability than full dentures, making it easier for patients to bite and chew.
  • They don’t require as much maintenance as full dentures since they are firmly anchored into the jawbone.
  • Patients can enjoy a more natural look and feel with implant-retained over-dentures.

Cons of implant-retained over-dentures:

  • Implant-retained over-dentures require an initial surgical procedure to place the implants 
  • They are more expensive than full dentures.
  • Patients must have adequate bone structure for the implants to be successful.
  • Implant-retained over-dentures may need to be re-fitted if the patient’s jawbone structure changes.

Should I choose traditional full dentures or implant-retained dentures?

Both types of dentures are available through Red Hill Dental Practice, but choosing the most appropriate option for your unique situation and personal needs is up to you! If you would like to educate yourself further on the pros and cons of each call (03) 5907 5942 to request an appointment at Red Hill Dental Practice, located at 135 Shoreham Road in Red Hill.

We are proud to serve the Mornington Peninsula; Red Hill, Red Hill South, Shoreham, Arthurs Seat, Main Ridge, Point Leo, Merricks, Merricks North, Somers, Tuerong, Boneo, Flinders, Cape Schanck, McCrae, Sorrento, Portsea, St Andrews, St Andrews Beach, Balnarring, Balnarring Beach, Blairgowrie, Fingal, Dromana, Moorooduc, Safety Beach, Mount Martha, Capel Sound, Tyabb, Tootgarook, Crib Point, Cerberus, Hastings, Rosebud, Rye, Mornington, Frankston South and Mornington.