How Much Do Implant Supported Dentures Cost?
Even though implant supported dentures do come with a much higher cost than traditional or conventional dentures, there are significant benefits that neutralize those costs. We will take a quick look at both processes, identify the pricing differences and conclude with the additional benefits that will help you establish a value to that added cost.
The Traditional or Conventional Denture Process
Traditional dentures have been around for many years, with the first step in the process being the dentist making an impression of the arch in which your natural teeth are missing. This impression is sent to a dental lab where it is used to fabricate an acrylic tray that is designed to fit snuggly on that arch. Created in a flesh color, the next step is for the artificial crowns to be placed into the tray. These crowns are made from either ceramic or porcelain. When placed, the tray is secured on the arch with a mild adhesive, and you now have a viable teeth restoration solution.
The Procedure for Implant Supported Dentures
A dental implant is now the new gold standard for a tooth replacement. A local anesthetic is first administered to numb the immediate soft tissue, then a small incision allows your dentist to drill a small hole in the jawbone. A small titanium post is then inserted into this hole. You can consider it an artificial root. After the post has had ample time to fuse or bond to the bone an extension is added to the post to reach the surface of your gumline. Then an artificial crown is placed on the extension. A healthy, strong, secure, and stable replacement for one tooth.
With implant supported dentures it takes this technology and combines it with the dentures. After an extensive evaluation, a decision will be made to determine the best number of posts need to be inserted. Using the exact same process, around four or six posts will be placed. Once these posts have integrated and extensions added, the denture tray will be placed on the arch. The significant difference is the addition of small nylon clips that are perfectly placed on the backside to snap on to the post extensions. Now you have a removable teeth restoration with the strength of an implant.
The Difference in Cost
A traditional denture, for one arch only, can cost in a range of $1,200 to $3,000 with the variables being the quality of materials and the time involved. One set of implant-supported dentures will begin at over $5,000 and might cost up to $30,000.
The Added Value from the Improved Benefits
The primary benefit is life expectancy. A conventional set of dentures will last five to eight years. An implant supported denture will be expected to last over 20 years. A traditional denture can become uncomfortable, only held in place with the denture adhesive. The technologically advanced implant supported option delivers not only strength but a far more natural sensation for biting, chewing and even speaking. It also delivers the extended health of your jawbone, with the implanted posts stimulating the jawbone and stymieing any unwanted atrophy. The added value is there to offset the increase in costs.