After losing a full lower arch of teeth, traditional dentures have long been the go-to solution. However, implant dentistry advancements now offer more effective solutions: 2-implant overdentures and all-on-4 dental implants in Middletown, DE. Dentistry in Middletown’s implant experts have put together a list of some common considerations to give you an idea of what might work best for you.
All-on-4 Implants and 2-Implant Overdentures Explained
All-on-4 dental implants, as the name suggests, strategically place four implants in the lower jaw to support a permanent dental arch. By contrast, 2-implant overdentures place only two dental implants into your lower jaw. These implants act as anchors for a full denture that can be removed.
Invasiveness
With all-on-4 implants, you need more extensive surgery to place the four implants. This can result in a longer recovery period and may involve more post-operative care. With only two implants to place, the overdentures are less invasive.
Bone Preservation
Because all-on-4 dental implants place more implants in your jaw, they stimulate more of your jawbone. This matters because jawbone stimulation helps prevent bone loss, which often coincides with tooth loss. Over time, this can contribute to better oral health and a more youthful facial structure.
Permanence
Like dentures, 2-implant overdentures are designed to be removable. That means they provide better stability than traditional dentures while still allowing for easy cleaning and adjustments.
On the other hand, all-on-4 dental implants are fixed. Once we place your dental implants at our Middletown, DE, office, they cannot be taken out. This offers a more permanent feeling, similar to natural teeth.
Maintenance
Regular cleaning for 2-implant overdentures involves removing the denture, brushing it thoroughly, and then reattaching it to the implants. While not overly complex, this routine does require consistency.
All-on-4 dental implants in Middletown, DE, are treated a lot like your natural teeth—you need to brush and floss around the implants and prosthetic teeth. Regular dental checkups at Dentistry in Middletown are crucial to ensure the implants remain in good condition.
Stability
Since they’re designed to be permanent, all-on-4 implants offer superior stability. While 2-implant overdentures are sturdier than traditional dentures, they may not match what’s offered by all-on-4 implants, and there may still be some minor movement.
Cost
The math is simple: four is more than two. The cost of two implants and a removable overdenture is typically lower than four implants and a permanent prosthesis. For many patients, this makes 2-implant overdentures a more accessible option.
Since our all-on-4 dental implants in Middletown, DE, are a more involved solution, they come with a higher price tag. However, if you’re willing to invest, the long-term benefits might justify the expense.
Aesthetics
Both 2-implant overdentures and all-on-4 dental implants from our Middletown, DE, office can offer impressive aesthetic results. However, all-on-4 implants generally provide a more natural appearance. The fixed prosthetic teeth are designed to blend perfectly with your upper arch of teeth.
Your 2-implant overdentures also improve aesthetics but may not achieve the same level of natural appearance as all-on-4 implants. The removable nature of the overdentures can sometimes mean a less seamless look.
We’ll Find Your Perfect Dental Implants in Middletown, DE
All of our Middletown, DE, dental implants offer unique benefits and considerations. Your choice depends on your preferences, budget, and oral health needs. Our implant dental team can provide personalized advice based on our expertise. If you’re ready to explore these options, make an appointment at Dentistry in Middletown today!