What Are Permanent Dentures?
Permanent dentures are a comfortable and convenient way to restore a full mouth of teeth and improve your quality of life. If you are missing teeth, you can now replace your removable dentures with a much more stable solution. Also known as implant-supported dentures, permanent dentures use both dental implants and denture prosthetics to re-create a stunning and functional smile. Permanent dentures are often referred to as “same day smiles” because, once your implants have been placed to support the denture, it can restore all 32 teeth in one session.
There are two different styles of permanent dentures, but both work in the same way. They are supported by 4-6 dental implants, placed deep within the jaw. That is what gives these dentures such strong support. Then, a denture prosthetic is secured to the implants. You no longer have to deal with the hassle of denture glue or the worry accompanied by eating certain foods, laughing and speaking. Permanent dentures are a fast and effective way for those with severe and complete tooth loss to fully restore their smiles.
Two Types of Permanent Dentures
Permanent dentures do not move around freely, they are attached to your jaw securely. However there are two different types of these dentures: one is truly permanent, and the other can be removed by the patient for cleaning and sleeping. These removable versions are often called ‘snap-on dentures’ or ‘screw on dentures’. These prosthetics still attach to your dental implants, however, they can be removed and unscrewed as needed, without the help of a dental professional.
Snap-on dentures are truly dentures, with little screws at the base. They snap on tightly to implants that are embedded deep in your jaw. These types of dentures are still removable, yet they are far more effective than regular dentures, which are unstable and need to be glued on. They provide a noticeable improvement in stability for your teeth.
The other type is a truly permanent denture called fixed, permanent dentures. These can also be referred to as a full arch restoration. In reality, this type of denture acts more like a dental bridge, except, instead of replacing one or two teeth, the prosthesis can replace an entire mouth of teeth in one session.
The prosthetic teeth are stunning and often made of zirconia or acrylic resin, they are screwed in permanently to 4-6 implants, depending on what you require. The denture is permanently attached and you cannot take it out on your own. These function like a full mouth of natural teeth, a significant advancement in modern dentistry.
Permanent Dentures in Los Angeles
Cost of Permanent Dentures
The cost of permanent dentures can vary, greatly, depending on your situation. However, in Los Angeles, they range from between $15,000 to $25,000. In some specific circumstances where a patient requires additional procedures, the cost can reach as high as $40,000.
However, despite this seemingly daunting price, it is still far less than a full mouth of dental implants, and it delivers a very similar result. At LA Dental Clinic we suggest coming in for a consultation if you are interested in permanent dentures. A detailed assessment of your mouth and jaw is the only way to get a truly accurate price quote.
How Long Do Permanent Dentures Last?
Dental implants have a 98% success rate and they often last for 15-20 years. Some never need to be replaced and can last a lifetime. The permanent denture prosthetics are also long-lasting when properly cared for. It is important to clean them regularly as you would with your natural teeth, and come in for a cleaning and assessment every 6 months. The denture prosthetics can easily be replaced if needed, this would not affect your implants, however, on average the complete denture prosthetic can last for 10-15 years before a replacement is needed.
Materials and Specifications
Permanent dentures consist of two parts, the dental implants and the denture prosthetic, which screws into the implant. Both components are made from safe, biocompatible materials that integrate seamlessly with your smile and look as natural as possible.
Your dental implants are made of titanium. This metal is unique in the sense that it allows for osseointegration or the fusion of your natural jaw bone cells with the titanium implant. Titanium has been used in the medical and dental industry for decades and it is widely known for its strength and durability.
The denture prosthetic for your permanent dentures is made from acrylic resin. This is a very strong substance that has the strength of your natural teeth, however, it is also highly customizable and allows for an aesthetic overall appearance. The dentures can be colour-matched and shaded like natural teeth. They are very realistic and create a stunning end result.
Benefits of Permanent Dentures
There are many different benefits to having permanent dentures. Patients can laugh, smile, eat and speak without the worry of losing their dentures or having them come loose. Permanent dentures provide much-needed stability, support and dexterity. You will have a greatly improved biting power and can finally eat the foods that you want to again.
Permanent dentures provide an instant and permanent new smile. You no longer have to worry about denture glue, tedious routines or keeping your smile in place. Indeed, permanent dentures are completely liberating for those who have suffered from tooth loss for a long period of time.
Summary of Key Benefits:
- Permanent
- Supportive
- Durable
- Long-Lasting
- Hassle-Free
- Instant New Smile
- Cost-Effective
What is the Difference Between Permanent Dentures and Dental Implants?
Permanent dentures and dental implants are very similar concepts. Indeed, you require 4-6 supporting dental implants before you can even place a permanent denture so the two treatments do overlap. However, there are also some key differences.
Dental implants are ideal for patients missing one to two teeth. They are expensive, permanent prosthetics, and although a full mouth of 32 dental implants is entirely possible, it’s not always the best option. Different patients have different needs and when it comes to dental implants, patients must have a strong, healthy jawbone to support these titanium prosthetics. Many patients who have been missing teeth for several years experience bone degradation and loss.
Permanent dentures are ideal for those who are missing several teeth. They have the stability and durability of dental implants but provide a full denture to cover the gaps and replace all of the missing teeth at once. This is also a more economically viable solution for those who are looking to replace several teeth without going over budget.
Ultimately, both options will restore your smile, it is simply a matter of preferences. In cases where a patient is missing a full mouth of teeth, permanent dentures will effectively restore the teeth quickly, and effectively. This greatly improves confidence, eating, and speaking abilities and quality of life.
Contact LA Dental Clinic for Permanent Dentures
At LA Dental Clinic our team is always ready to help and we would be happy to meet with you and discuss your options for permanent tooth replacement. Give us a call at 213-385-9710 or contact us to schedule a free consultation.