Table of Contents
TL;DR
- Permanent dentures are fixed dental prosthetics anchored to the jawbone (often with implants), offering superior stability compared to removable denture that rely on adhesives or suction.
- They provide a natural feel and appearance, won’t slip during eating or speaking, preserve jawbone, and offer better chewing function for all types of food.
- Considerations include higher cost, invasive procedures, longer treatment time, eligibility limitations, strict maintenance requirements, and minor surgical risks.
- Main types include implant-supported dentures, fixed hybrid dentures. (All-on-4/All-on-6), overdentures, and permanent partial dentures.
- The placement process involves taking impressions and scans, placing implants, allowing healing, crafting the custom denture base, positioning the teeth, and final finishing before attachment.
Everything About Permanent Dentures
Dentures have long served as a reliable solution for restoring both function and confidence in individuals with missing teeth. However, advances in dental science have led many patients to favor permanent dentures over conventional removable ones. Unlike their removable counterparts, permanent dentures offer greater stability, comfort, and aesthetic appeal, closely mimicking the look and feel of natural teeth.
This blog covers the main benefits and drawbacks of permanent dentures to help you decide if they are the right long-term dental solution for you.
What are Permanent Dentures?
Permanent dentures, or fixed dentures, are dental prosthetics that are firmly placed in the mouth. Unlike traditional removable dentures, which need to be taken out for cleaning and can sometimes slip while eating or speaking, permanent dentures are securely attached, often with the help of dental implants.
They can either be employed to substitute a complete set of teeth or a few lost teeth. Your dentist may suggest permanent partial dentures in case a few teeth are missing.
What are Some Pros of Permanent Dentures?
Choosing fixed dentures comes with several clear advantages:
- Stability and Security: Would not slip or shift when talking or eating.
- Natural Appearance: Designed to closely match natural teeth.
- Improved Comfort: Custom-fit and firmly attached, reducing gum irritation and soreness.
- Better Chewing Ability: Provides a stronger bite force, making it easier to enjoy a wider range of foods.
- Jawbone Preservation: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and changes to facial shape.
- Long-Lasting Solution: Built to last many years with proper care, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
What are Some Cons of Permanent Dentures?
While highly beneficial, fixed dentures may not be right for everyone. Here are some considerations:
- High Cost: More expensive than removable dentures due to surgery, advanced materials, and extra dental work.
- Invasive Procedure: Requires surgery and drilling into the jawbone, which may feel uncomfortable for some.
- Longer Process: Treatment can take months, with multiple visits and healing time.
- Eligibility Limitations: Not suitable for patients with severe bone loss, gum disease, or certain health conditions without additional treatments.
- Maintenance Needs: Require strict oral care and regular dental checkups.
- Surgical Risks: Small risks include infection, nerve damage, injury to nearby structures, and sinus perforation.
Types of Permanent Dentures
Permanent dentures come in different types to suit various needs, depending on how many teeth are missing and the level of stability desired:
1. Implant-Supported Dentures
These dentures are attached to dental implants placed in the jawbone, offering excellent support.
- They provide superior stability and make chewing and speaking easier compared to traditional removable dentures.
- The implants help preserve jawbone health and prevent bone loss over time.
- These dentures can be fixed (permanently attached) or removable overdentures (snap-on style), depending on the patient’s preference.
2. Fixed Hybrid Dentures (All-on-4 or All-on-6)
This option is a full-arch restoration for those who have lost most or all teeth in one jaw.
- It uses four to six implants strategically placed in the jaw to anchor a full set of replacement teeth.
- The denture is permanently fixed in place and can only be removed by a dentist.
- It offers a natural appearance, feels like real teeth, and is a popular choice for full-mouth rehabilitation.
3. Permanent Partial Dentures
For patients who still have healthy natural teeth, permanent partial denture fill the gaps.
- They can be supported by crowns, bridges, or dental implants to hold them firmly in place.
- These dentures help maintain the alignment of natural teeth by preventing shifting.
- This is a cost-effective solution for replacing a few missing teeth while preserving existing healthy ones.
How are Permanent Dentures Placed?
As per our specialists at Brooklyn Blvd Dental, here is the complete process:
- Taking Detailed Impressions and Scans: The dentist captures precise molds and digital images of the mouth to ensure a perfect fit.
- Surgical Implant Placement: Small titanium implants are placed into the jawbone to act as secure anchors for the dentures.
- Allowing Time for Healing: Several months are given for the implants to naturally bond with the jawbone, creating a strong foundation.
- Creating the Custom Base: Technicians craft the denture base using either traditional wax modeling with acrylic injection or advanced 3D printing with dental-grade materials.
- Adding and Positioning Teeth: Artificial teeth made from acrylic resin or porcelain are carefully placed and bonded to the custom base.
- Final Finishing Touches: The dentures are trimmed, smoothed, and polished before being permanently attached to the healed implants.
Final Thoughts
Permanent dentures can make a real difference in your daily comfort and confidence. They may cost a bit more, but they offer stability and a natural look that traditional options often can’t match.
If you’re looking for a trusted dentist in brooklyn park to guide you through the process, our team at Brooklyn Blvd Dental is here to help. We create personalized cosmetic dentures designed for your comfort and lifestyle.
Get in touch today to schedule a consultation. You can call us at (763) 533-8669 or visit our clinic at 5831 Brooklyn Blvd, Brooklyn Center, MN 55429.
FAQs
1. Can immediate dentures be permanent?
No. Immediate dentures are those put in immediately after the dentist extracts teeth. Immediate dentures are mostly temporary dentures. After the healing process is completed, permanent denture are fabricated.
2. How much are permanent dentures?
The price varies depending on the type of denture, the number of implants required for support, and any additional restorations. Acquiring implant-supported dentures tends to be more expensive than removable dentures, but it has long-term durability.
3. Are permanent dentures thinner than temporary dentures?
Yes, they are generally thinner, less heavy, and more comfortable since it is specially made and anchored in place.
4. How long do permanent dentures last?
Permanent dentures can last 10 years or longer, especially when you maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular dental checkups.
5. What are the benefits of permanent dentures?
Permanent denture provide stability and comfort, restore a natural appearance, help prevent bone loss, and boost your confidence.
