Lost All Your Teeth? Dental Implants vs. Removable Dentures

Doctor Pham Hung Duc Anh
Expert Article Consultation Doctor Pham Hung Duc Anh
Implant Surgery Dentist

Many people wonder whether full-arch removable dentures or full-mouth dental implants are the better option for restoring chewing function and aesthetics after losing all their teeth. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages. To determine the optimal solution for tooth replacement, let’s explore the details below.

1. What Are the Pros and Cons of Full-Arch Removable Dentures?

Removable dentures are a common method for replacing missing teeth. They consist of two main parts: the denture base and artificial teeth. The denture base (also called artificial gums) is made from flexible or rigid plastic materials (typically Acrylic or Biosoft) and may or may not include metal clasps.

Advantages

  • Cost-Effective: Affordable and accessible to almost everyone.
  • Chewing Function: Provides a relatively good chewing ability, as the force is evenly distributed across the dental arch.
  • Aesthetics: The gum-colored base and artificial teeth closely resemble natural gums and teeth.

However, since removable dentures are the most traditional tooth replacement method, they also come with several drawbacks

  • Inconvenient Cleaning and Maintenance: Patients must remove their dentures frequently for cleaning. Over time, dentures may develop an odor due to saliva absorption. Additionally, they are prone to loosening, falling out, or deforming, requiring careful handling.
  • Chewing Discomfort: Excessive chewing pressure on the gums can cause inflammation, swelling, and pain. Patients must avoid hard or sticky foods.
  • Limited Lifespan: Removable dentures typically last only 3–5 years before needing replacement.
  • Cannot Prevent Jawbone Resorption: Long-term tooth loss without a permanent solution leads to jawbone deterioration, increasing the risk of premature aging, bite misalignment, and gum recession.
Removable dentures
Although removable dentures are cost-effective, they cause many inconveniences in daily life and, most importantly, do not prevent jawbone resorption.

2. Key Features of Full-Arch Dental Implants

Dental implants involve embedding implant posts into the jawbone as artificial tooth roots, with crowns placed on top to create a complete tooth structure that closely mimics natural teeth in both appearance and function.

Advantages of Full-Arch Dental Implants

  • Superior Chewing Ability: Restores up to 90% of natural chewing function. Patients can enjoy a full range of foods without the discomfort or restrictions associated with removable dentures.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Dental implants provide a highly natural and aesthetically pleasing look, blending seamlessly with real teeth.
  • Long-Lasting Durability: Implant-supported prosthetics are incredibly durable and, with proper care, can last a lifetime.
  • Prevents Jawbone Resorption: Full-arch dental implants effectively prevent bone loss, gum recession, and facial sagging, which commonly occur with long-term tooth loss.
  • Additional Benefits: More convenient oral hygiene maintenance, reduced risk of oral diseases, and restored speech clarity comparable to natural teeth.

Drawbacks

  • Higher Cost: Full-arch implant placement is a complex procedure with a higher initial cost compared to removable dentures.
  • Requires Skilled Specialists: Successful implantation depends on experienced professionals and advanced dental technology to ensure proper integration and longevity.
Implant placement
The dental implant procedure ensures optimal bite stability, maximum chewing efficiency, and an aesthetically pleasing smile.

3. Should You Choose Dental Implants or Removable Dentures for Full-Arch Tooth Loss?

Based on the information above, full-arch dental implants stand out as the most advanced and highly recommended solution for complete tooth loss. While the initial cost is significantly higher than removable dentures, implants require only a one-time procedure and provide long-term durability, making them a more cost-effective and beneficial investment over time.

Mr. Dung
For example, Mr. Dũng (65 years old) initially opted for removable dentures for two years, hoping to regain chewing function. Unfortunately, he struggled with discomfort, frequent denture adjustments, and limited dietary choices, often resorting to soft foods like porridge. Additionally, he experienced speech difficulties and lacked confidence in daily conversations.

Fortunately, after visiting Elite Dental and consulting with Dr. Trần Hùng Lâm, he was diagnosed and recommended for full-arch restoration using the ProArch/All-on-4 technique with four implant posts in his lower jaw. Following treatment, Mr. Dũng regained a strong and natural-looking smile, restored full chewing ability, and now enjoys effortless communication with family and friends.

[Mr. Dũng shared that choosing dental implants at Elite Dental was the best decision of his life. He no longer faces the challenges of removable dentures and can fully enjoy his golden years with confidence.]

Ultimately, the key to achieving successful full-arch restoration, both aesthetically and functionally, lies in selecting a reputable dental clinic with highly experienced specialists. A thorough consultation and personalized treatment plan from a trusted professional ensure the best long-term outcomes for patients seeking a complete smile transformation.

4. Elite Dental – A Trusted Destination for Full-Arch Dental Implants

Good news for those suffering from complete tooth loss—Elite Dental offers a reliable solution to help restore your smile and chewing function with full-mouth dental implants. Patients can confidently entrust their dental restoration to Elite Dental, thanks to several outstanding advantages:

  • Highly Experienced Specialists: Our implantologists have over 15 years of hands-on experience and hold doctorate degrees from prestigious institutions in France and Japan.
  • Exceptional Success Rate: Elite Dental has achieved a 99.8% success rate in full-arch implant procedures, as recognized by Straumann, a leading global implant manufacturer.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Equipped with advanced technology such as the Piezo surgical system for minimal trauma, laser technology, and PRP centrifuge systems to accelerate healing.
  • Pioneering Digital Implant Solutions: Elite Dental is one of the first clinics to implement the PIC system for digital impression-taking, ensuring precise implant positioning and reducing treatment time while maximizing comfort and accuracy.

Here are some real-life success stories of patients who have undergone full-arch implant restoration at Elite Dental:

Ms.X's teeth
To help Ms. X regain her youthful smile and restore optimal chewing function, our specialists performed full-arch dental implants using the ProArch/All-on-4 technique for both upper and lower jaws. The PIC system was utilized for precise implant placement, ensuring a comfortable impression-taking experience.
Ms.O's teeth
Ms. O previously struggled with removable dentures, facing difficulties in eating and speaking. After seeking treatment at Elite Dental, she was advised to receive four implant posts in both the upper and lower jaws using the ProArch/All-on-4 technique.
Customer's teeth before and after treatment at Elite
Thanks to the expertise and dedication of Elite Dental’s specialists, Ms. O successfully regained a beautiful and functional smile, enhancing her overall quality of life.

We hope this information has helped you make an informed decision on whether full-arch dental implants or removable dentures are the best choice for your tooth replacement needs. Don’t let missing teeth hinder your quality of life—contact Elite Dental HERE or call our hotline at 0902 559 888 for a personalized consultation.

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