Prosthesis on implants or traditional prosthesis - what to choose?

Types of dentures

Removable dentures

These are prosthetic restorations that the patient can independently remove from the oral cavity. They are made most often from acrylic, nylon, silicone or modern acron. They persist in the oral cavity due to adhesive adhesion, using a thin layer of saliva between the prosthesis and the mucous membrane. For partial dentures, additional stabilization is provided by braces that cover the natural teeth.

Advantages of removable dentures:

• Short lead time for execution.
• Lower cost compared to implants.
• Possibility of partial reimbursement from the National Health Fund.

Disadvantages of removable dentures:

• Insufficient stability — they may slide or fall out when sneezing, coughing or laughing.
• The need to use fixing glue.
• They do not prevent bone atrophy.
• They can weaken healthy teeth if they are based on them.
• They require replacement every 5-7 years due to changes in the shape of the gums and wear of the material.
• Aesthetics are not entirely natural.

Dentures on implants

Implants are titanium screws that are implanted into the jaw bone or jaw bone that replace the root of the tooth. A fastener is fixed on the implant, and on it a crown, bridge or prosthesis. Prostheses on implants are permanently connected to the bone, which provides them with great stability.

Advantages of dentures on implants:

• Very high stability — they do not move when talking, eating or laughing.
• No need for glue.
• They prevent bone atrophy, which helps maintain the natural features of the face.
• They do not require grinding healthy teeth.
• They improve the comfort of eating and speaking.
• Aesthetics very close to natural dentition.
• Durability — implants can last for a dozen or even decades.

Disadvantages of dentures on implants:

• Higher cost of treatment.
• Longer treatment time due to the need for healing and integration of the implant with the bone.
• Not every patient may be a candidate for implants (e.g. due to general diseases or insufficient bone).
• Necessity of surgical intervention.

What to choose?

Removable dentures are cheaper and faster to access, but they have limited stability and comfort of use. They require regular replacement and do not prevent bone atrophy. Implant prostheses, on the other hand, offer much better stability, comfort and aesthetics, as well as protect the bone from atrophy, but are associated with a higher cost and longer treatment time.

The decision should be made individually, after consultation with the dentist, who will assess the condition of the oral cavity, the patient's needs and financial capabilities. In many cases, implants are the best long-term solution, however, removable dentures may be a good temporary choice or for people who cannot undergo implant treatment.

The choice between a removable prosthesis and a prosthesis on implants is a decision that affects the comfort of life, oral health and the aesthetics of the smile. It is worth considering all the pros and cons of both solutions in order to choose the option that best suits your needs.