Modern Dentistry | All-On-4 Dental Implants Vs. Traditional Dentures

There are two main types of dental prosthetics: all-on-4 dental implants and traditional dentures. The best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Here's what you need to know.

Traditional Dentures

Traditional dentures have been around for a long time. Early dentures were made from ivory, brass, gold, and sometimes human teeth. They were also painful to wear. In fact, experts suggest that George Washington's grim expression on the one-dollar bill was because his dentures were painful and poorly fitted. Dentures have come a long way since then.

Traditional dentures are a type of dental prosthetic that is not permanent; rather, they rely on suction or a mild adhesive to stay in place. This type of denture must be removed for cleaning and can sometimes slip out of place during eating or speaking. Traditional dentures also require special care and cleaning and are removed at night. They can sometimes be uncomfortable or inconvenient.

While traditional dentures are more affordable than other options, they do need to be replaced after several years. While the American Dental Association does not have hard guidelines on replacement, they do recommend that dentures be evaluated for replacement if more than five years have passed since the denture fabrication. 

All-on-4 Dental Implants

All-on-4 dental implants, on the other hand, are a type of dental prosthetic that is permanently implanted into the jawbone. The all-on-4 name comes from the fact that four titanium implants are used to support the artificial teeth.

The implants or dental posts are placed into the jawbone and allowed to heal for a few months. Once the area has healed, you will return to the dentist to have your artificial teeth placed. All-on-4 dental implants are a permanent solution that looks and feels natural. Additionally, they do not require special care beyond brushing and flossing as traditional dentures do.

Another big advantage of all-on-4 dental implants over traditional dentures is that they are much more secure. With regular dentures, patients have to worry about them slipping out of place, which can be embarrassing and inconvenient. All-on-4 dental implants are anchored into the jawbone, so there's no risk of them slipping or falling out.

While all-on-4 dental implants are more expensive than traditional dentures, many patients prefer the security of knowing that they are a more permanent solution to tooth loss.

The best type of dental prosthetic for you will ultimately depend on your needs and budget. All-on-4 implants are more expensive but look and feel more natural. Traditional dentures are less expensive but require special care and can sometimes be uncomfortable or inconvenient. Talk to a dentist to see which option is right for you.