As we age, many systems in the body, including oral and dental health, naturally decline. One of these changes is tooth loss. In elderly individuals, tooth loss creates significant challenges not only aesthetically but also in daily functions such as chewing and speaking. Therefore, deciding which treatment option to choose for missing teeth is a shared concern for both patients and dentists.
In particular, complete (full) dentures and implant-supported fixed prostheses are the two most common treatment methods preferred for elderly individuals.
This article examines these two methods in detail — their advantages, disadvantages, effects on quality of life, and which method may be more suitable in different circumstances.
What Is a Complete Denture?
A complete denture is a type of removable prosthesis used when there are no teeth remaining in the upper and/or lower jaw. They are usually made from acrylic-based materials and rest on the gums and palate. Their retention depends on the jawbone structure, oral tissues, and the fit of the denture.
Advantages:
- No surgical procedure required
- Short application time
- Economical option
- Can be applied even in patients with severe jawbone resorption
Disadvantages:
- Retention may decrease over time due to jawbone resorption
- May move or come loose while chewing
- Can affect speech and taste perception
- Long-term comfort may be reduced
What Is an Implant-Supported Fixed Prosthesis?
Implant-supported fixed prostheses are restorations anchored to titanium screws (implants) placed into the jawbone. These prostheses do not move and provide a sensation closest to natural teeth. They are typically applied on 4 to 6 implants.
Advantages:
- Does not move; chewing and speaking function are close to natural teeth
- Provides a sense of security and positive psychological impact
- Helps prevent jawbone resorption
- High level of aesthetics
Disadvantages:
- Requires a surgical procedure
- Patients with insufficient bone structure may require additional procedures (e.g., bone grafting)
- More expensive than complete dentures
- Longer treatment time compared to complete dentures
Complete Denture vs. Implant-Supported Fixed Prosthesis
| Feature | Complete Denture | Implant-Supported Fixed Prosthesis |
|---|---|---|
| Retention | Moderate (depends on jawbone) | High (anchored to implants) |
| Comfort | Longer adaptation period | Closest sensation to natural teeth |
| Aesthetics | Moderate | High |
| Speech & Chewing Function | Limited | Advanced |
| Surgical Procedure | Not required | Required |
| Treatment Time | Short | Longer |
| Cost | Low | High |
| Bone Preservation | None | Supports jawbone |
Which Option Should Be Chosen?
Each person’s oral structure, general health status, and expectations are different, so treatment should be personalized.
Complete dentures are often suitable for individuals with reduced bone support, those who do not want surgery, or elderly patients in advanced age groups.
On the other hand, implant-supported fixed prostheses are preferred for patients in good general health, with sufficient bone density, and who aim for higher comfort and function.
According to Dt. Emre Sarkın, the comfort of complete dentures is directly related to how well they fit the jaw structure. For elderly patients whose health condition does not allow surgery, a well-designed complete denture can significantly improve daily quality of life.
Advantages of Digital Dentistry
Today’s digital measurement systems, 3D scanners, and CAD/CAM technology enable more precise, customized designs for both complete and implant-supported prostheses.
This technology increases retention, fit, and comfort — especially important for elderly individuals.
Dt. Özlem Gülbenli Yılmaz notes that digital planning not only makes the impression-taking process easier for elderly patients but also ensures far greater accuracy in prosthesis placement, which is particularly beneficial in implant-supported restorations.
Is Orthodontic Support Ever Needed?
Even in older age, orthodontic planning may be necessary. This is especially true for long-term denture wearers whose bite has changed or whose tooth alignment complicates prosthetic planning.
Orthodontist Dt. Muhammet Gürcan explains that orthodontic assessment before prosthetic treatment directly affects success. Aligning the jaws before implant placement can increase the stability and lifespan of the fixed prosthesis.
The Dent Evka Clinic Difference in Prosthetic Treatment
Located in Bornova, Dent Evka offers both complete and implant-supported fixed prosthesis treatments using digital technologies and a multidisciplinary approach.
The clinic evaluates patients’ overall health, life expectations, and oral anatomy in detail to recommend the most suitable solution.
Comfort, Confidence, and Function Are Possible at Any Age
Aging does not mean giving up on a comfortable life. Complete dentures and implant-supported fixed prostheses are two key solutions that restore oral health and improve quality of life for elderly individuals.
The best method is determined through proper patient evaluation. For the best results — meeting both your aesthetic expectations and functional needs — working with experienced professionals is essential.
The Dent Evka team, including Dt. Emre Sarkın, Dt. Özlem Gülbenli Yılmaz, and Orthodontist Dt. Muhammet Gürcan, is here to provide you with the most suitable treatment.