Permanent dentures

Maybe you’ve heard of permanent dentures and wondered if they’re for you. The truth is, they can refer to many tooth replacement options—so we’re here to help you discover the right choice for you.

What are permanent dentures?

Why are there so many names for permanent dentures? Because they’re used to describe many tooth replacement options, including:

• Final dentures: for premium dentures, “final” or “permanent” refers to the denture you receive to use permanently.

• Implant dentures: also known as snap-on dentures, this solution is what we mean when we say permanent dentures.

• Fixed full arch implants: while similar to permanent dentures, this option only uses non-removable prosthetics.

Pick your permanent option

Not all permanent tooth loss solutions work the same way. Explore the different types and learn which one could be for you.

Signature Elite dentures (best removable solution)

What makes our premium Signature Elite denture permanent? Your care includes a permanent or “final” denture. This means you’ll receive one denture for healing post-extractions and then our most customizable denture, molded to your healed gums for your most comfortable, long-lasting fit.

Implant dentures (best hybrid solution)

Where the stability of permanent titanium implants meets the affordability of our best-selling premium denture. Implant dentures give you the flexibility of snapping your denture in and out with the long-term security of implants to make eating, speaking and laughing natural again.

Fixed full arch implants (Best non-removable solution)

So much more than a denture, fixed full arch implants—also called All-on-X dental implants—become a permanent part of your mouth, making them a tooth loss solution that’s made to last a lifetime. In fact, they’re often considered your best option because they feel and function just like your own teeth.

Permanent dentures FAQs

How long do permanent dentures last?

Permanent dentures, may also be known as implant dentures or implant-supported dentures, and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. On average, dentures are expected to last about 5 to 7 years and implants are designed to last a lifetime, depending on factors such as the quality of the dentures, oral hygiene practices, and overall oral health. Regular dental check-ups and professional dental cleanings can help extend the lifespan of permanent dentures by ensuring they fit properly and remain in good condition.

What is the best option for permanent dentures?

Permanent dentures, often called implant dentures, overdentures or implant-supported dentures, are frequently considered a preferred solution for many due a variety of reasons. Because these dentures are secured in place by dental implants that are surgically placed into the jawbone, they provide a stable foundation for the dentures to snap onto which allows for several advantages, including:

• Improved stability for eating and tasting food again

• Improved comfort for speaking, smiling and laughing

• Improved function compared to traditional removable dentures
  

Implant dentures also help preserve jawbone integrity and prevent bone loss over time, providing a more natural and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. To see what’s best for your smile, schedule a visit with an Aspen Dental clinician. Alongside their compassionate care teams, they will work with you to determine the best option for you.

Are permanent dentures the same as dental implants?

Permanent dentures and dental implants are related but not the same. When discussing permanent dentures, they may refer to a few things:

• The final conventional denture you receive when you replace your smile with removable dentures

• An implant denture, also known as an implant-supported denture, that utilize dental implants as anchors to secure a denture into place atop your jaw. While the implants are not removable, the denture itself can be snapped on and off your implants

• Or, lastly, fixed full arch implants which also utilize implants for a permanent smile. While similar, this solution anchors a different type of prosthetic in place that’s also non-removable
  
  

On the other hand, dental implants refer to the small titanium posts that are surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. They can support various dental prosthetics, including crowns, bridges, and implant-supported dentures. While permanent dentures rely on dental implants for support, dental implants themselves can be used for different types of dental restorations beyond dentures.

What is the cost difference between permanent dentures and implants?

Generally, the cost difference between permanent dentures and dental implants can vary significantly based on several factors. Generally, implant dentures or implant-supported dentures, may require a higher initial investment, tend to be more cost-effective than traditional removable dentures in the long run due to their durability and reduced need for replacements. The cost of permanent dentures can be affected by factors such as the number of implants needed, the materials used, the procedure's complexity, and the dental practice's geographic location. In contrast, traditional removable dentures typically cost less upfront but may require periodic adjustments and replacements over time, potentially increasing long-term costs. It's important to consult with a dentist to determine the best option based on your specific dental needs, budget, and oral health goals.

How long does it take to make permanent dentures?

The process of making permanent dentures varies depending on your needs. The timeframe can span a few days or several months based on healing or changes to the fit or functionality of your bite. It begins with an initial consultation where your dentist assesses your oral health and discusses treatment options. If you are getting dental implants to support the dentures, the first phase involves surgically placing these implants into the jawbone. This procedure generally takes one to two hours per implant. Following implant placement, a healing period of three to six months is usually necessary to allow the implants to integrate with the jawbone in an osseointegration (bone fusing to the dental implants) process. During this time, immediate dentures may be worn so you’re never without teeth. Once the implants have fully healed, impressions of your mouth are taken to create precise molds for the permanent dentures. These dentures are custom-made to fit your gums and jawbone structure perfectly. After fabrication, the dentures are fitted and adjusted as needed to ensure comfort and proper bite alignment. Finally, they are securely placed and attached to the implants, providing a stable, long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth.