This is one of the most common questions Paul hears, and there's no single right answer - only the right answer for your situation. Here's an honest comparison.
How traditional dentures work
A conventional denture rests on your gum ridge, held in place by suction (particularly for uppers) and a precise fit. Made well, they're a genuinely good solution for most people - comfortable, functional, and without a surgical step.
How implant-retained dentures work
Implant-retained dentures clip onto titanium implants placed in your jaw, using ball attachments that click into sockets built into the denture. This is the confirmed system Paul works with. The result doesn't rely on suction or adhesive, sits and functions closer to natural teeth, and helps slow the jawbone loss that continues after tooth loss.
Comparing the two, honestly
- Stability - implant-retained dentures are significantly more stable for eating and speaking; traditional dentures can move or loosen as your gums change shape over time
- Cost - traditional dentures have a lower upfront cost and no surgical step; implant-retained dentures involve implant surgery as well as the overdenture itself
- Timeline - traditional dentures can be completed in weeks; implant-retained dentures involve a healing period of roughly 3–6 months after implant placement
- Bone health - implants help slow ongoing bone loss in the jaw, which conventional dentures don't affect
What implant-retained dentures cost
Implant surgery, performed by a referring oral surgeon or implant dentist, typically costs $2,500–$5,000 per implant, and most patients need 2–4 implants. Paul's ball-retained overdenture typically costs $4,000–$8,000. Combined, most patients invest $10,000–$25,000+.
Who tends to suit each option
If you're frustrated by a denture that moves, especially a lower denture, or you're facing significant tooth loss and want the most stable long-term option, implant-retained dentures are worth discussing. If cost or avoiding surgery matters more, or your bone health isn't suited to implants, a well-made conventional denture - or BPS Precision Dentures for a premium step up without surgery - may serve you just as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many implants are needed for implant-retained dentures?
A: Most patients need 2–4 implants, with the exact number depending on your jaw, bone quality, and the surgeon's plan.
Q: Am I a suitable candidate for implant-retained dentures?
A: Suitability depends on your jawbone density and volume, overall health, and smoking status, assessed by the referring oral surgeon or dentist alongside Paul. Age alone is not a barrier.
Q: What system does SA Precision Dentures use?
A: Paul works with the ball-retained (stud) system - each implant carries a small ball attachment that clicks into a socket in the denture. Bar-retained systems and All-on-4 aren't part of what's offered here.