Deciding Between Removable Or Implanted Dental Plates
If you have lost all (or nearly all) of your teeth, your dentist will recommend that you get dental plates. A dental plate, also called a full denture, can either go on your upper or bottom jaw. Traditionally, all dental plates used to be removable. However, with the advent of implants, denture implants are now available as well. Below, find all the factors you will need to evaluate to decide whether to go for removable or implanted dentures.
Cost
Of course, costs are at the forefront of what to go with. Removable plates are cheaper than implanted ones. Still on removable plates, those made of acrylic are cheaper than those that have metal retainers. As for implanted dentures, they are more expensive compared to the removable ones because they require a surgical procedure to install. Typically, 3-5 implants are required. The more the implants used on a denture, the higher it costs to have them installed.
Ease of use
Both types of dental plates behave differently when installed. Removable plates adhere to the mouth using acrylic retainers or metal clasps. If they are the right fit, they will provide a relatively snug fit that will allow you to eat and act normally. However, they may move about sometimes or feel unnatural to you. Implanted dentures, on the other hand, are permanent and act just like your natural teeth. Over time they are more comfortable and easier to use.
Healing time
Because implanted dentures have to be installed via a surgical procedure, it might take up to six months before the installation is complete. During this period, you will wear removable acrylic dentures, also called dental flippers. With removable dental plates, however, no healing time is required because they go over your gums. Once they are installed and aligned by a dentist, you can go about your normal duties immediately.
Durability
Both types of dental plates can last long depending on how they are cared for. However, removable dental plates have a disadvantage in that they can fall and get damaged. This would necessitate an immediate repair or replacement. Implanted dental plates, however, cannot fall off. The only way they can get damaged is if you're in an accident or an altercation. So although implanted dental plates will cost you more to get, you are almost guaranteed to have them for life.
Still not sure what you want? Talk to your dentist. Discuss with them what your lifestyle, finances, and expectations are. They will then be in a better position to guide you on which product to go for.
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