English 
Spanish Have you ever heard of the ship of Theseus paradox? It’s a philosophical thought experiment that goes like this: After many years of maintenance, if we replace each piece of the ship one by one, is it still the same ship? Some argue that the idea of the ship is where its identity lies, while others say the physical material is what matters. We’re not here to settle hundreds of years of philosophical debate, but we can have a similar discussion about your smile. If you replace one tooth with a crown or bridge, would you still describe it as your smile? What about replacing all your teeth with a set of full dentures?
We’d argue that as long as you were deciding upon the type of full denture based on your needs, preferences, lifestyle, and budget, then of course it’s your smile! To make an informed decision, you need to know the type of full dentures available and how they affect your oral health, daily routine, and appearance.
Full Denture Options
Selecting the appropriate type of full dentures is critical for individuals who have experienced significant tooth loss. Full dentures are artificial replacements for all your teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, providing a solution to improve oral function and aesthetics.
Traditional Full Dentures
This tried-and-true denture option has been widely used for decades and recognized for restoring some functionality and aesthetics. Their pink acrylic base sits atop the gums and is removable for easy cleaning and maintenance. We customize traditional dentures for each individual, but over time, you’ll need to bring them in for relining to maintain their fit. This is because they do nothing to replace your missing tooth roots and prevent the jawbone deterioration that comes with tooth loss, so as your jawbone changes shape, they’ll begin to move around in your mouth.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Representing a significant advancement in denture technology, we anchor implant dentures directly onto dental implants or mini dental implants that we place into the jawbone. This option offers increased stability, eliminating the likelihood of the dentures slipping or shifting while in use. Furthermore, the implants act as artificial tooth roots, stimulating the jawbone to prevent deterioration. There are several varieties of implant dentures, depending on your desired levels of removability and functionality.
- Snap-on dentures: Do you want dentures that are more stable and functional while still being removable? Snap-on dentures, sometimes called overdentures, connect to 4-8 mini implants during the day and are removable at night for cleaning. Their acrylic base is smaller than traditional dentures and doesn’t cover the roof of your mouth, giving you a more comfortable fit and allowing you to taste food more completely.
- Semi-removable roundhouse bridge: A roundhouse bridge is not like a traditional bridge—it’s designed to replace all your teeth. A roundhouse also eliminates the pink acrylic base, giving them a more natural look and feel. They’re made from zirconia, a material ten times stronger than enamel, so they’ll last a lifetime with proper care. This bridge is “semi-removable” because only a dentist like Dr. Aristodemo will remove it for professional cleaning. You might hear this option referred to as Fix-on-Six®, as it uses 6-10 mini implants for improved stability.
- Non-removable roundhouse bridge: Also known as permanent dentures, this zirconia roundhouse provides the highest levels of stability and functionality. We cement the denture to 10-12 mini implants and do not remove it, making this the closest option to your original teeth we can offer.
Making an Informed Decision
Selecting the right type of dentures involves considering several factors, including:
- Stability and fit: Implant-supported dentures provide a more secure fit, minimizing movement and improving comfort.
- Lifestyle considerations: Traditional dentures require daily maintenance and limit what you can eat. Implant dentures are more of a “set it and forget it” way to replace your teeth.
- Oral health impacts: Implant-supported dentures can preserve jawbone health by providing stimulation similar to natural tooth roots.
How Much Do Full Dentures Cost?
The cost of full dentures varies depending on the type chosen. Traditional full dentures are generally more affordable upfront but require adjustments or replacements over time. Implant-supported dentures offer greater durability and less maintenance and can be a more cost-effective solution in the long term. When you come for a free consultation, we can perform an examination, take X-rays, and customize a treatment plan to give you a better idea of the final cost. We’ll also review your insurance coverage and explain your financing options through our outside lending partners.
Schedule a Consultation for Full Dentures Today
Full dentures offer a viable solution for those looking to replace all their teeth, with options ranging from traditional to implant-supported dentures. Each option presents its own benefits and considerations, particularly regarding stability, oral health impacts, and cost. Call Happy Smiles Family Dentistry today to schedule your free consultation and learn more about the type of full denture that’s right for you.
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