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If you are interested in restoring your smile with full-mouth dental implants from Dr. Talar Guldalian, you may be wondering what options you have for replacing your missing teeth.
Here at Nova Dental, we want you to know the differences between fixed implant-supported restorations and removable restorations, and to help you learn more about which method of smile restoration may be right for you.
Fixed implant-supported restorations are sometimes called “fixed dental bridges.” They’re also occasionally referred to as “All-On-Four” restorations, as fixed, implant-supported restorations are used in the common All-On-Four treatment methodology.
As the name suggests, fixed implant-supported restorations are not designed to be removable at home. While they can be removed by your dentist, if necessary, they cannot be taken out whenever you want. They are connected firmly to your dental implants.
This strong connection to your implants is what provides fixed implant-supported restorations with their strength and stability. Compared to removable restorations, this type of restoration will shift less, and will feel more like your natural teeth.
The main drawback of fixed restorations is that it takes some time to get used to cleaning them. This is because you must use special dental tools that clean between your gums, implants, and implant restoration. Without a good fit and proper dental hygiene, your gums could become inflamed and infected.
Removable restorations are often called “overdentures,” because they go over your implants and snap onto them, which holds them tightly in place.
Just like fixed restorations, removable restorations are held in place by a series of 4-6 dental implants. Usually, a bar or another specialized device is attached to these implants. The overdentures snap directly onto this attachment point.
While this type of denture is removable, overdentures are not at all similar to traditional dentures, which fit tightly onto your gums and are held in place with friction and/or dental adhesive.
Because your overdentures will be anchored tightly to your dentures, they are much more stable compared to traditional dentures. However, they are not quite as strong or durable as fixed implant-supported restorations.
There are some advantages to choosing this type of restoration, though. They are usually a bit cheaper than fixed bridges, and it’s very easy to clean your dentures, your gums, and your dental implants because you can simply remove the dentures completely. This makes overdentures a great option for patients who have struggled with issues like periodontal disease in the past, and are concerned with maintaining perfect oral hygiene.
As you can see, it’s not always easy to choose between a fixed or removable restoration. While fixed restorations are very stable, they’re a bit harder to clean, and they are usually more expensive. In contrast, removable restorations are more affordable and are very easy to clean, but are not quite as durable.
Not sure what’s right for you? The best option is to contact Dr. Talar Guldalian at Nova Dental for a consultation. At your consultation, Dr. Guldalian can discuss all of your options for restoring your smile, and provide you with more in-depth information that will help you make the right decision in Woburn, Winchester, or Burlington. Give us a call at (781) 369-5722 now to get started.