If you’re missing an entire arch of teeth, you have several options to restore your smile, but which one is best for you? Traditional dentures, implant-supported overdentures, and fixed implant solutions each rebuild your smile in different ways, but they offer vastly different levels of stability, comfort, and function. Understanding how these three options compare helps you make a decision that aligns with your budget and quality-of-life expectations.
At Naylor Family Dental and Implant Center, Dr. Naylor offers three distinct treatment plan options to meet your needs, from basic dentures to overdentures to All-on-4 implants. Dr. Naylor, who completed his dental education at Indiana University in 2017, focuses on crafting personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and goals, and he treats you with the same care and attention he would give to his own family.
Traditional Dentures: The Most Affordable Starting Point
Traditional dentures sit on top of your gums without any attachment to your jawbone. They remain in place via suction and adhesive, and while they restore tooth appearance, they have some functional limitations. Dr. Naylor often says, “dentures are for smiling, not eating,” and this speaks to one of the main drawbacks: limited chewing power and stability.
Why Cost Makes Traditional Dentures Appealing
These prosthetics are the most budget-friendly option, and they can be made relatively quickly. If you need teeth right away and want to keep costs low, traditional dentures offer an immediate solution. However, they require adjustments over time because your jawbone continues to shrink without tooth roots, causing the dentures to fit poorly after several years.
The Practical Challenges of Removable Dentures
Traditional dentures also slide around when you eat or speak, which can cause sore spots on your gums. Many patients avoid certain foods because biting down is uncomfortable or their dentures cannot handle tougher textures. You’ll need regular relining appointments and eventually complete replacements. Keeping your gums healthy helps prevent infections and maintain your mouth’s overall condition, even with full dentures.
Implant-Supported Overdentures: A Middle-Ground Solution
Implant-supported overdentures combine the affordability of traditional dentures with the stability of dental implants. Instead of relying solely on suction, these dentures snap onto a small number of implants placed in your jawbone, typically two to four implants per arch. This setup gives you significantly more chewing power because the implants anchor your prosthetic in place.
How Overdentures Improve Daily Function
You can still remove your overdentures for cleaning, which some patients prefer, but they won’t slip around when you’re eating or talking. The implants also help slow bone loss in your jaw by stimulating bone tissue, similar to natural tooth roots. This preservation matters because without stimulation, you can lose up to 25% of your bone in an area within just three months after tooth loss.
Balancing Cost and Stability
Overdentures cost more than traditional dentures but less than fixed implant solutions. They offer a nice balance if you want improved function without the higher price tag of a permanent restoration. Keep in mind that you still need to remove and clean your overdentures daily, and the attachments may wear out over time. If you’re considering this option, our team can walk you through the entire process, including any preparatory procedures, like bone grafting, if your jawbone needs reinforcement.
Fixed Implant Solutions: The Most Stable and Functional Choice
Fixed implant solutions are the highest level of tooth replacement, providing a permanent set of teeth that feel and function like natural teeth. Options like All-on-4 use four to six implants per arch to support a full bridge of prosthetic teeth that your dentist permanently screws into place.
The Advantages of Permanent Implant Restorations
The stability and chewing power of fixed implant solutions far exceed those of traditional dentures and overdentures. Research shows that dental implants maintain a 95% success rate, making them one of the most predictable treatments in dentistry. You can eat whatever foods you want without worrying about your teeth shifting. The implants integrate with your jawbone, preserving your bone density and preventing facial sagging that often occurs with removable dentures.
Long-Term Value and Investment
When weighing your options, consider the following factors about fixed implant solutions:
- Longevity: Can last decades with proper care, avoiding frequent replacements needed with traditional dentures
- No adhesives or adjustments: Eliminates ongoing costs of denture adhesives, relining appointments, and refitting procedures
- Natural eating experience: Allows you to bite into apples, chew steak, and enjoy all foods without restrictions
- Bone preservation: Stimulates the jawbone to prevent bone loss and maintain facial structure over time
This option costs more upfront, but many patients find the investment worthwhile. The treatment process takes several months because your implants need time to fuse with your bone. During this healing period, you’ll typically wear temporary teeth, so you’re never without a smile. Full-mouth rehabilitation procedures like these require careful planning, but the results speak for themselves.
Find Your Best Full Arch Solution at Naylor Family Dental and Implant Center
Every patient’s situation is different, and the right full arch restoration for you depends on your budget, bone density, overall health, and personal preferences. Dr. Naylor takes the time to explain all three options and help you understand which treatment will give you the best outcome. Our team makes dental care accessible with flexible financing through CareCredit, Proceed Finance, and Cherry, plus we accept most major insurance plans, including Delta Dental PPO, Cigna Dental, and Aetna Dental.
Whether you’re leaning toward traditional dentures, implant-supported overdentures, or fixed implants, we’re here to answer your questions and guide you through the decision. Contact us to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward restoring your smile and confidence.
