Traditional Vs. Implant-Supported Dentures
What's the Difference?
Click the teeth to learn more!
Traditional
Non-surgical
No need for surgical procedures or waiting periods for healing.
Cost-Effective
Generally more affordable upfront than implant-supported dentures.
Flexibility
Can be easily removed for cleaning or adjustments.
Upgradable
Can be transitioned to implant-supported dentures in the future if desired
Faster Initial Process
No waiting for implants to integrate with the bone.
Implant
Stability
Implants provide a fixed foundation, so the denture stays securely in place.
Natural Feel
Mimics the feeling of natural teeth more closely due to being anchored in the jawbone.
Dietary Freedom
Greater strength allows for
fewer food restrictions.
Enhanced Speech
Provides clarity in speech by preventing the slipping of dentures.
Less Gum Irritation
Since they are anchored to implants, they typically cause less friction on the gums.
A Palatable Difference
Palateless dentures and traditional dentures serve the same primary function — to replace missing teeth — but they differ significantly in design and user experience. Traditional dentures, especially the upper ones, come with a palate plate that covers the roof of the mouth, which can sometimes affect taste and the sensation of hot and cold. On the other hand, palateless dentures, often secured with dental implants, lack this palate plate. This not only offers an unobstructed tasting experience but also provides enhanced stability, reducing the chances of the denture slipping or causing discomfort. Choosing between the two often boils down to individual comfort, oral anatomy, and personal preferences regarding stability and sensory experiences. Also, The palateless denture cost can vary based on the number of implants required and whether you opt for a snap-in or permanent denture solution.
4 Reasons to go Palateless
01
It's secure and feels more like the teeth you were born with.
02
It’s more comfortable than traditional dentures.
03
The open palate enhances your taste and enjoyment food.
04
The implants stimulate your jawbone and help prevent shrinkage that normally occurs when all of your teeth are missing.
The Process
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Impressions – of your upper and lower arch are taken to ensure the denture fits correctly and that your bite is perfectly aligned.
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Dental implant placement – After Dr. Haygood places the dental implants in your jawbone, time is allowed for them to heal.
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Healing period – In three to four months, the implants will fuse to your jawbone providing a solid anchor for your palateless denture. Meanwhile, you can wear a temporary denture that is given to you immediately after your extractions.
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Additional impressions – After the healing period, more impressions may be taken to ensure no changes are needed to provide you with an accurate fit.
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Permanent dentures – We make your permanent dentures. When they're ready, they'll be snapped onto the dental implants or permanently placed and checked for appearance, bite, and fit.
What to Expect
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You will be sedated for the procedure.
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The surgery will be pain-free, but afterward you'll experience minor discomfort that will improve with over-the-counter pain relievers.
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Implant placement takes about an hour per dental implant.
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You’ll be given post-care instructions.
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You will be able to resume normal activities the next day.
How Many Dental Implants Are Required?
Two dental implants on the lower jaw give a good base of support, but having more can make the denture even more stable. On the upper jaw, four implants are usually used. This helps the denture fit snugly and feel more natural. Choosing the right number of implants helps ensure comfort and a steady hold for the dentures.
