Thoughts on Life and Dentistry

COMPLETE DENTURES

• Relatively straightforward to make
• Almost everbody can have one
• Inexpensive
• A starting point for first time denture wearers
• All the shortcomings of artificial removable dentures : psychological distress, sore mouth, risk of not getting used to them.
• Maintenance is lifelong

IMPLANT SUPPORTED OVERDENTURES

• Stability, retention and aesthetic problems are readily rectified
• A “cure” for patients who can’t get used to dentures without the disadvantages of the fixed approach
• Simplified surgical demands
• Professional fees are not significantly higher than cost of complete dentures
• Maintenance requirements do not appear to be demanding
• Exhibit minor movement during function and likely to accumulate food debris under the dentures’ fitting surface
• Size teeth available to chew on can be maximised

IMPLANT-SUPPORTED FIXED TEETH

• Conceptually brilliant and supported by compelling research data
• Limited in use, not everyone is suitable
• Relatively complex to undertake both restoratively and surgically due to increased number of implants.
• Very expensive
• Enormous psychological and functional benefits
• A “cure” form patients who can’t get used to dentures
• Aesthetic outcomes may be difficult and unpredictable
• Maintenance not always easy and may be expensive
• Size of teeth available to chew on has to be reduced