Implant‑Retained vs Fixed Bridges vs Remov­able Den­tures: What’s the Best Tooth Replace­ment for Your Lifestyle?

Thankfully, there are more options than ever before if you are looking for a replacement or a restoration. With the help of dental implants, you could enjoy a full arch restoration, or you can retain the flexibility of removable dentures with an implant supported denture.

In this guide, we will explore the main options available following tooth loss so that you can make an informed choice about your future. If you still have questions, we recommend booking an appointment with our restorative dental care team to find out more about the options available to you. We can support you through this important transitional stage in your life, so you can tackle tooth loss with ease.

What are the options following tooth loss?

There are three main options when it comes to replacing teeth after complete tooth loss.

• Implant retained dentures are dentures supported by 4-6 implants placed in your jaw. This approach provides a sturdy anchor for a full arch restoration. The denture will also have a much smaller base plate, as it won’t rely on suction to stay in place. This option could be fixed in place with screws, or you could opt for snap-on magnetic clasps that keep the denture firmly in place.

• Fixed bridges use bridge restorations to help close the gaps, with remaining teeth preserved to provide the anchor points. This option allows you to keep any remaining teeth for as long as possible.

• Removable dentures are the cheapest option available. A denture is an acrylic base plate with artificial teeth. You can work around remaining teeth, or you could remove all of your teeth and then have a full arch restoration. The denture is held in place using temporary adhesive and suction against the roof of the mouth.

Which is the best restoration option?

In terms of flexibility and reliability of the restoration, implant retained dentures will be the best option following tooth loss. This is for a number of reasons, including:

• Implant retained dentures offer a fixed restoration that won’t slip or rub against the gums, resulting in a more comfortable restoration.

• This style of restoration will also allow you to eat any foods without worrying, as the force of the bite is absorbed by the jaw rather than remaining teeth or the gums.

• Keeping the jaw bone active and useful can prevent it from shrinking, which could lead to a significant change in the shape of your face.

While this might be a positive move, it isn’t always the best option for every patient. Dental implants are a significant investment and this treatment isn’t available on the NHS. This could make it unaffordable for some patients.

It’s also a lengthy treatment plan. It can take around 4-6 months to complete the treatment, and some patients would prefer a faster restoration.

In cases where there is already loss of bone density in the jaw, there is a chance the treatment could take even longer and be more expensive due to the need for bone grafts.

And finally, some patients would prefer a removable denture as it makes it easier to keep their restoration clean and their gums healthy. Those with limited mobility might struggle to care for dental implants to the level that is required.

How to make the right decision for you

You need to consider all of the options before making a final decision. Think about whether you want to keep your remaining teeth for as long as possible, or if you would rather remove them and have a fresh start with a full arch restoration.

You should also consider the cost of treatment; both upfront and further down the line. The lifetime cost of dental implants might turn out to be comparable to the lifetime cost of dentures and subsequent replacements and adjustments.

If you’re struggling with this important decision, book an appointment with our implant team to learn more and find out if you’re a good candidate for treatment.