Hi. Can you simply explain what hybrid dentures are? What are the advantages or disadvantages? I will need dentures within the next few months. My dentist didn’t mention hybrid dentures as one of my options, but if I have to get a second opinion I will. Thanks. Milton
Milton – A hybrid denture combines a removable denture with dental implants. It is also known as an implant denture, fixed remove denture, or an implant-supported denture.
The base of the denture has metal components that attach to dental implants. You can remove the denture to clean it. As few as two implants can be used to support a denture, but for maximum stability, six to eight implants should be used.
Hybrid, or implant-supported dentures, won’t slip or fall out. The stability of the denture improves your speech and chewing efficiency. The clicking and popping that is sometimes heard with dentures will be eliminated. You will not need denture adhesive to keep your denture in place. The implants will also stimulate jawbone and prevent bone shrinkage and facial that occur when all of your teeth are missing.
Dental implants are surgically implanted in your jawbone. After two to six months, when the bone fuses to the implants, your denture will be fasted to the implants. You will be able to wear temporary dentures in the meantime.
Once the denture is stabilized, it will feel more like your natural teeth. If you receive dentures from a dentist who is trained in cosmetic dentistry, they will look natural too. Be certain to find a dentist who offers cosmetic dentures and implant-supported dentures to get natural-looking results.
Any disadvantages to a hybrid denture?
When compared with complete removable dentures, there few disadvantages. Hybrid dentures cost more, and there is a waiting period for the implants to heal until you receive your permanent denture.
Your medical history will be carefully reviewed to ensure you are a candidate for implants. If you are, your implant dentist will let you know your options for stabilizing your denture.
This post is sponsored by Naperville dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.