Implant-supported dentures are a modern solution for people who have lost most or all of their teeth but want a more stable and comfortable alternative to traditional dentures. In this article, we’ll explore how implant-supported dentures work, their benefits and drawbacks, and who makes a good candidate for this long-term tooth replacement option. 
This article provides answers to the following questions:
- What are implant-supported dentures?
- Are implant dentures better than regular dentures? Benefits and disadvantages
- Procedure for getting Implant-supported dentures
- Care and Maintenance
- How much does this treatment cost?
What are implant-supported dentures?
Implant-supported dentures are a type of overdenture that is secured in place by dental implants rather than resting loosely on the gums. They provide greater stability, improved chewing ability, and more confidence compared to traditional removable dentures. They can be either removable or fixed, depending on the design and patient preference.
Types of implant-supported dentures
Removable (Snap-In) Dentures
These dentures attach to implants using special connectors and can be easily removed for cleaning. They offer stability while still being user-friendly for daily maintenance.
Fixed (Permanent) Dentures
Fixed-dentures are screwed or cemented onto implants and can only be removed by a dentist. They look and feel like natural teeth and are ideal for those who want a permanent solution without the need to take them out.
Are implant dentures better than regular dentures? Benefits and disadvantages
Benefits
- Increased stability and comfort: Implants prevent dentures from slipping or moving, providing greater comfort and confidence while speaking and eating.
- Improved Chewing and Nutrition: Better bite force allows you to eat a wider variety of foods, contributing to improved nutrition and digestion.
- Bone Preservation: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone and help prevent bone loss that typically occurs with missing teeth and conventional dentures.
- Enhanced aesthetics: They maintain facial structure, reduce sagging, and offer a more youthful appearance than traditional dentures.
Disadvantages
- Higher Cost: Implant-supported dentures are significantly more expensive than traditional dentures due to surgery, materials, and lab work.
- Surgical Procedure Required: Placement involves one or more surgical procedures, which carry risks such as infection, swelling, or implant failure.
- Longer treatment time: The process may take several months, including healing time after implant placement.
- Potential for implant failure: Though rare, implants can fail due to poor bone integration, smoking, or poor oral hygiene.
- Ongoing Maintenance: Requires regular cleaning, checkups, and sometimes adjustments or replacement of the denture over time.
- Not Suitable for Everyone: Patients need sufficient bone and good overall health, which may exclude some candidates.
Procedure for getting Implant-supported dentures
- Initial Consultation and Planning: The process begins with X-rays or 3D scans to assess bone volume and plan the optimal placement of implants.
- Implant surgery: Dental implants are placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia. Healing may take several months as the implants integrate with the bone (osseointegration).
- Attachment of dentures: Once healing is complete, custom-made dentures are securely attached to the implants, either permanently or with a snap-on mechanism.
How many implants are needed?
Typically, 2–4 implants are needed for lower jaw dentures, and 4–6 implants for upper jaw dentures. The exact number depends on bone quality, denture type, and bite forces.
Common Concerns and Risks
While success rates are high, complications such as implant failure, infection, or loose dentures can occur. Smoking, poor hygiene, or chronic illness may increase risks. Early intervention can often resolve most issues.
What is the best material for implant-supported dentures?
Choosing the best material for implant-retained dentures depends on a combination of durability, aesthetics, comfort, and budget.
- Acrylic with metal framework (hybrid dentures): The most common and cost-effective option.
Base: Acrylic resin Teeth: Acrylic or composite resin Framework: Titanium rod or metal framework
Advantages: Lighter and more affordable, Easier to adjust and repair, Comfortable for soft tissues.
Disadvantages: Wears out faster than zirconia or porcelain, Less aesthetic than high-end options. - Zirconia (monolithic zirconia dentures):
Excellent durability and aesthetics. Material: Solid zirconia ceramic. Pros: Very strong and durable, Extremely stain and break resistant, Very natural looking. Cons: More expensive, More difficult to adjust or repair, May look heavier than acrylic. - Porcelain (porcelain or ceramic fused to metal): Very aesthetic, but less common these days. Mostly used for custom dental crown or dental bridges on implants. Pros: Great, natural look, Durable and stain resistant. Cons: More prone to chipping, Heavier and more expensive, Less commonly used for full dentures.
- Recommendation: Zirconia is ideal for patients who value durability and a natural look. Acrylic combined with metal is suitable for those looking for a cost-effective, adjustable option.
Care and Maintenance
Just like natural teeth, implant dentures require brushing, flossing, and cleaning. Removable options should be taken out and cleaned daily. Routine check-ups are necessary to monitor the health of the implants, gums, and surrounding bone.
How much does this treatment cost?
The dentures cost vary significantly, both depending on the geographical location and (naturally) the implant manufacturer. More and more people are coming from abroad to make a dentures in Hungary. The majority of our patients arrive from Great Britain, Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy. The reason behind this is simple: foreigners can receive a far less expensive, but still excellent and high-level service in Hungary. Eventually, they leave happy with their brand-new, radiant smile.
Conclusion: Is It Worth It?
Implant-supported dentures offer a reliable, comfortable, and natural-feeling solution for tooth loss. Though the process is more complex and costly than traditional dentures, the long-term benefits in quality of life, function, and health make it a worthwhile investment for many patients. Read our dental implants reviews.
