Permanent Dentures

Key Takeaways

1. Permanent dentures, attached to dental implants, offer superior stability and function compared to traditional removable dentures.
2. They help preserve jawbone health and prevent the sunken facial appearance often associated with bone loss in denture wearers.
3. Permanent dentures come in various types, including fixed and removable versions, all supported by dental implants.
4. They offer improved aesthetics, comfort, and eliminate the need for adhesive usage.
5. Suitable candidates are those in good health with adequate jawbone density, and the cost can range from $20,000-$35,000.

To get more detail on the above let’s go through it more deeply:

The Difference Between Permanent and Removable Dentures

Permanent Dentures are securely attached to dental implants that are surgically placed in the jawbone to replace a full row of teeth. They are not removable by the patient, they are firmly anchored in place with 4 or 6 screws and can only be removed by a dentist.

Also referred to as “Implant-supported dentures”, “Fixed dentures”, “All-On-4”, “All-On-X” and various other terms adapted by different doctors,

Removable Dentures: Traditional removable dentures are designed to be taken in and out by the patient for cleaning and maintenance. There are no dental implants involved. They rely on dental adhesives or suction for stability and can be easily removed.

Some Key Differences Between the Two

Types of Permanent Dentures

The term, “Permanent dentures” can be very confusing. There are several different terms that are used interchangeably to describe the differences between the various types of permanent dentures. Some have bars, some have snaps, some are screwed in, but all refer to a wide array of dentures that are all, in one way or another, held in place by dental implants:

It can describe both fixed and removable dentures (but both involve dental implants):

• A fixed permanent denture, (is permanently secured/screwed in place) using dental implants. Fixed permanent dentures can only be removed by your implant dentist or prosthodontist, whereas removable permanent dentures can be removed by you for daily cleaning purposes.
• A removable permanent denture, also called an “overdenture” is a prosthesis that is either supported by/rests on, or snaps onto implants.

Any of these options offer a significant improvement in stability and function compared to traditional removable dentures. However, the “fixed” options, the ones that are screwed in place, do provide the maximum function and stability.

Other common terms you may hear that are used to describe permanent dentures include:

• “Implant-supported dentures”, or
• “Implant-retained dentures”, or
• “Fixed dentures“, or
• “Implant dentures”
• “Hybrid dentures”
• “All-On-4″ denture”. The big difference with this type of prosthesis is that the use of angled implants and angled abutments, vs standard vertical positioning. This design was originally designed for patients without enough bone for standard implant positioning placement. By angling the implants, particularly in the very back of the jaw, implants could be placed in sites where, without angling them, would not be possible. We are not big fans of this procedure due to the bone removal required for it and the angulation of the implants and abutments for several reasons, all explained in the videos mentioned here.
• (See our videos linked here for more: (Problems w/ bone removal for All-On-4, or Buyer Beware: Problems with All-On-4).

All of the above involve the surgical placement of dental implants in the jawbone, which act as sturdy anchors for the denture. This approach provides a more natural appearance, enhanced comfort, and the confidence of not worrying about denture slippage or the need for adhesives. It’s important to note that these terms all refer to the same innovative solution that has revolutionized the world of tooth replacement, offering patients improved oral function and excellent aesthetics.

Benefits of Permanent Dentures

1. Improved Stability and Functionality: Permanent dentures ensure the ability to speak, chew, and bite with full functionality, providing confidence without the concern of teeth shifting or becoming dislodged.
2. Enhanced Aesthetics: Permanent dentures and Implant Bridges, offer a more natural appearance as they are tailored to match the color and shape of your existing teeth. Additionally, they are less prone to staining compared to removable acrylic dentures.
3. Reduced Bone Shrinkage: Permanent dentures help prevent the sunken facial appearance often associated with removable dentures, as they contribute to less bone shrinkage over time.
4. Enhanced Comfort: Unlike removable dentures that rest on the gums, permanent dentures are more comfortable, as they are securely anchored and do not rely solely on gum support.
5. Elimination of Adhesive Usage: With Permanent dentures, there’s no need for adhesives to keep them in place, as they are securely fastened.
6. Prevention of Sore Spots: Permanent dentures eliminate the discomfort of sore spots that can arise with traditional dentures, allowing patients to enjoy a full set of teeth naturally and without self-consciousness.
7. Permanent Attachment: Permanent dentures are firmly attached and do not come out, ensuring a worry-free experience.
8. Durability: Permanent dentures are highly resilient and less prone to breakage compared to conventional dentures.
9. Longevity: Designed as a long-term solution, permanent dentures can last a lifetime with proper care, whereas removable dentures typically require more frequent replacements or adjustments.

Their Disadvantages

1. They cost more than removable dentures
2. They require a surgical procedure to place them in the jawbone

Are They Suitable For You?

An ideal candidate for permanent implant dentures typically is an individual who is in good overall health and seeking a long-term solution for tooth replacement. Health requirements for permanent implant dentures involve having adequate jawbone density and volume to support the dental implants, as the implants need a stable foundation. Healthy gums are also crucial to ensure the success of the procedure.

Additionally, candidates should be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene practices after the implant placement, as this is essential for long-term success.

Patients with certain medical conditions or those who smoke heavily may require additional evaluation and precautions. Ultimately, the decision to proceed with permanent implant dentures should be made in consultation with a Board Certified Prosthodontist, who can tailor the treatment plan to meet the specific needs and circumstances of the patient.

Cost of Permanent Dentures

The range of the cost of permanent dentures can range from $20,000-$35,000. The difference in cost is reflected by factors such as: The training and experience of the doctor, geographical area, whether it’ll need to be one in one surgery visit or two, whether or not extractions and bone grafting are needed, the number of implants, and the type of temporary and permanent prosthesis you get.

How much would the cost of dental implant treatment be in your case? In order to answer that exactly, we would need to see you for an evaluation and determine which options might apply to your specific situation.

The good news is, that our consultation is complimentary and includes any and all necessary x-rays, so that question can be answered once we have that information at hand.

How Long Do They Last?

With proper care, they can last a lifetime.

The most common complication is the fracture or wear of the tooth structure, particularly after ten years. Fixed dental prostheses made of metal-ceramic demonstrate a significantly higher ten-year survival rate compared to those made of gold-acrylic.