Did you know that over 36 million Americans have no teeth, and 90% of them opt for dentures? With the rise of modern dental technology, traditional dentures are no longer the only solution. Today, patients can choose between implant retained dentures vs implant supported dentures — two revolutionary options designed to offer better stability, comfort, and a more natural bite. But how do you decide which one is best for you? In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences to help you make an informed decision and find the perfect denture solution tailored to your needs.

Understanding the Basics: Implant Retained Denture vs Implant Supported Denture

Both implant retained and implant supported dentures use dental implants to stabilize the dentures. However, the way they function and the support they offer vary:

• Implant Retained Dentures:
  
  
• They rely on dental implants mainly for retention but still sit on the gum tissue.
  
  
• They often "snap" onto implants with attachments like ball-retained or bar-retained systems.
  
  
• You may still experience minor movement when chewing.
  
  
• Implant Supported Dentures:
  
  
• These are fully supported by implants, not the gums, offering superior biting forces and stability.
  
  
• They feel closer to natural teeth, making chewing foods easier and more efficient.
  
  
• They are typically recommended when a patient has enough bone to support multiple implants.
  
  

Understanding this distinction can help you visualize how all the denture options could impact your day-to-day comfort and lifestyle.

Implant Retained Dentures Procedure

The implant retained dentures procedure is a minimally invasive method that enhances denture stability using 2–4 dental implants.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Consultation and Evaluation
   Your dentist will assess jawbone health, take X-rays or 3D scans, and create a custom treatment plan.
   
   
2. Implant Placement
   Titanium implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone under local anesthesia.
   
   
3. Healing and Osseointegration
   Over 3–6 months, implants fuse with the bone for long-term support.
   
   
4. Denture Attachment
   Once healed, the denture is fitted with snap-on attachments for secure retention.
   
   

Benefits:

• Faster healing compared to full implant-supported dentures
  
  
• Removable for easy cleaning
  
  
• Cost-effective solution for improved comfort and function
  
  

Implant retained dentures restore confidence and functionality with a less complex process.

Implant Retained Dentures Cost and Other Considerations

Choosing the right option also depends on your budget. Here's a quick overview:

• Implant Retained Dentures Cost: Generally less expensive because they require fewer implants (usually 2–4).
  
  
• Implant Supported Dentures Cost: Slightly higher because they often need more implants (4–6) for full support.
  
  

Other factors that affect cost include:

• The type of attachment system used.
  
  
• Whether bone grafts are necessary.
  
  
• The number of implants placed.
  
  
• Geographic location and dentist experience.
  
  

Pro Tip: Always check if your dental insurance covers part of the procedure to help manage costs! Some insurance plans now cover up to 50% of implant denture treatments.

Types of Implant Dentures Available

Whether you’re considering implant retained dentures or exploring options like implant supported fixed restorations or implant supported removable overdentures, understanding the available types can help:

• Bar-Retained Dentures: A thin metal bar connects implants, and the denture clips onto the bar.
  
  
• Ball-Retained Dentures: Dentures snap onto ball-shaped attachments on implants.
  
  
• Fixed Implant Bridges: Permanent solutions that mimic natural teeth and are not removable.
  
  
• All-On-4 Dental Implants: Great alternative for patients wondering, "All on 4 dental implants or implant retained dentures?" These provide full arch restoration using only four implants.
  
  

Each type has its unique set of advantages, depending on your goals, health condition, and budget.

Are Implant Supported Dentures Removable?

This is a common question!

• Implant retained dentures are usually removable for daily cleaning.
  
  
• Implant supported dentures can be removable or fixed — depending on the type chosen.

Removable versions offer easier hygiene routines, while fixed versions provide the most natural-feeling replacement and better chewing efficiency.

Pros and Cons of Each Option

When Should You Consider Implant Retained or Implant Supported Dentures?

Consider implant retained dentures if:

• You have some bone loss but still enough to place 2–4 implants.
  
  
• You prefer a removable denture for easier cleaning.
  
  
• You are looking for a more affordable solution.
  
  

Consider implant supported dentures if:

• You have sufficient bone density or are willing to undergo bone grafts if necessary.
  
  
• You want maximum stability and a more natural bite.
  
  
• You prefer a fixed, permanent solution that feels like natural teeth.

Transform Your Smile with Rana Dentistry Today!

Ready to regain your confidence with a stable, beautiful smile? At Rana Dentistry, we specialize in implant-supported dentures and implant-retained dentures tailored to your unique needs.

Our expert team uses cutting-edge dental technology to restore your ability to chew foods comfortably, improve your oral health, and give you a smile that feels just like natural teeth.

Don’t settle for less, give your smile the support it deserves. Contact Rana Dentistry today and schedule your consultation to take the first step towards a confident, life-changing transformation.