Whether it is some teeth that you are looking to replace, a whole arch of missing teeth, or a full mouth with no teeth at all, we have a solution for you.
While we don’t fabricate dentures at our practice, we work with a branch in Christchurch with a New Zealand based and trained Clinical denture technician and lab who have invested in state of the art denture fabrication technology.
We also provide implant assisted dentures that vastly enhance quality of life and ensure good integrity of your teeth and chewing function.
Removable Dentures
Removable dentures are traditional prosthetics that can be taken in and out of the mouth for cleaning and maintenance. The advantages of this option are that it is relatively cheaper and non-invasive.
Types of Removable Dentures
Complete Dentures
- These are used when all the teeth in an arch (either upper or lower) are missing.
- They are custom-made to fit the gum tissue and bone, with a base made of acrylic or a combination of acrylic and metal.
Partial Dentures
- Partial dentures are used when only some teeth are missing. They are attached to the remaining natural teeth using metal clasps or precision attachments.
- A base (often made of acrylic) holds the artificial teeth in place.
Disadvantages are traditional removable dentures may shift or move when talking, eating, or speaking, especially lower dentures. Without stimulation from natural tooth roots or implants, the jawbone may gradually resorb, causing dentures to fit poorly over time and can sometimes cause sore spots on the gums or discomfort due to movement.
Implant-Retained Dentures
Implant-retained dentures are more stable and secure because they are anchored to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone.
Types of Implant-Retained Dentures
Fixed Implant Dentures (All-on-4/All-on-6)
- These are a full arch of teeth that are permanently attached to 4 or 6 dental implants.
- The dentures can only be removed by a dentist, providing a more permanent solution that functions like natural teeth.
Removable Implant-Supported Dentures (Snap-on Dentures)
- These dentures snap onto dental implants via locator attachments. They are more stable than traditional removable dentures but can be easily taken out by the patient for cleaning.
- Often require 2-4 implants for lower dentures and 4-6 for upper dentures.
Key Benefits of Implant-Retained Dentures
- Enhanced Stability: Implant-retained dentures don’t shift or move, making them more comfortable and functional for chewing, speaking, and smiling.
- Preservation of Bone: Dental implants help stimulate the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that often occurs with removable dentures.
- Improved Aesthetics: Implant-retained dentures often look more natural than traditional removable dentures, providing a more seamless and lifelike appearance.
- Long-Lasting: While removable dentures need periodic adjustments, implant-retained dentures can last much longer with proper care.
Challenges of Implant-Retained Dentures
- Surgical Procedure: Implant placement requires oral surgery, which may not be suitable for everyone. It also involves a healing period before the dentures can be attached.
- Cost: Implant-retained dentures are more expensive than traditional dentures due to the cost of implants and the surgical procedure.
- Healing Time: After the implants are placed, a healing period of 3-6 months may be needed to allow the implants to fuse with the bone before the dentures can be attached.
Comparison: Removable vs. Implant-Retained Dentures
| Feature | Removable Dentures | Implant-Retained Dentures |
| Stability | May shift or move | Highly stable, no movement |
| Comfort | Can cause sore spots | More comfortable, fewer pressure points |
| Jawbone Preservation | Can lead to bone loss over time | Helps maintain bone structure |
| Aesthetic | Natural but not as seamless | More natural and seamless look |
| Cost | Less expensive | Higher initial cost |
| Maintenance | Must be removed daily for cleaning | Requires less frequent removal |
| Procedure | No surgery required | Requires surgical placement of implants |
Consulting with our highly skilled implant dentist will help determine which option best fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget. Both options can significantly enhance your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently.