Dentures

Fixed Dentures vs. Removable Dentures: Making the Best Choice for Your Smile

Tooth loss is more than just a cosmetic issue—it affects how you eat, speak, and feel about yourself. Whether due to age, injury, or illness, missing teeth can dramatically reduce quality of life. Fortunately, modern prosthodontics offers two excellent solutions: fixed dentures and removable dentures. But how do you choose the right one for your lifestyle and long-term health?

At Metropolitan Prosthodontics in Plymouth, MN, we guide our patients through this decision every day. Led by Dr. Christopher Sasik, our team of experienced dental professionals helps you weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option, providing a customized plan to restore both function and confidence in your smile.

If you’re searching for a "Plymouth prosthodontist" or asking, “Which prosthodontist near me has experience with advanced dentures?”, you’re in the right place.

What Are Fixed Dentures?

Fixed dentures, also known as implant-supported dentures, are permanently attached to dental implants embedded in the jawbone. This means they do not need to be taken out for cleaning or sleeping. Think of them as a semi-permanent solution—one that combines the stability of dental implants with the convenience of a full-arch restoration.

Advantages of Fixed Dentures

· Secure Fit: No slipping or clicking. Fixed dentures stay in place securely.

· Natural Look & Feel: They are custom-designed to resemble your natural teeth in shape, color, and size.

· Better Chewing Power: You can eat a wider variety of foods without worry.

· Preserves Bone Health: The implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss over time.

· Lasting Solution: With proper care, fixed dentures can last 15–25 years or more.

Considerations for Fixed Dentures

· Surgical Requirement: Implant placement involves minor surgery and recovery time.

· Cost: The initial investment is higher, though often more cost-effective long term.

· Not Always Immediately Available: Some patients may require bone grafts or healing time before final placement.

Fixed dentures are a great choice for patients looking for stability, function, and a permanent improvement in their quality of life. A consultation with a Minneapolis prosthodontist can help determine if you’re a candidate.

What Are Removable Dentures?

Removable dentures are a more traditional solution, sitting on top of the gums and held in place with suction or denture adhesive. These can be full dentures (for an entire arch) or partial dentures (for several missing teeth), and are removed for cleaning and while sleeping.

Advantages of Removable Dentures

· Non-Surgical: No implant surgery required—ideal for those with health conditions or insufficient bone structure.

· Lower Initial Cost: A more affordable upfront option for many patients.

· Easier to Adjust or Replace: If your mouth shape changes over time, removable dentures can be refitted.

· Accessible: Great for patients who need a quick, short-term solution.

Considerations for Removable Dentures

· Less Stability: They may shift while speaking or eating, leading to discomfort or embarrassment.

· Frequent Maintenance: Must be cleaned daily and may need adhesives or relining.

· Bone Loss: Without implants to stimulate the jawbone, bone resorption can occur over time, changing facial structure.

· Shorter Lifespan: Typically replaced every 5–10 years depending on wear and oral changes.

Removable dentures are a good fit for those who are not ready for implant surgery or are seeking a more economical entry point into tooth replacement.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Dentures

Each patient is unique, and the best solution depends on multiple factors. Here's how to think through your decision:

Oral and Bone Health

· Do you have enough jawbone for implants?

· Are your gums and surrounding teeth healthy?

· Have you experienced significant bone loss?

Our prosthodontist Plymouth team will perform digital imaging and a full evaluation to assess your oral health and identify the best option.

Lifestyle Preferences

· Do you want to remove your dentures daily or keep them in place?

· Are you active and social, and concerned about your dentures shifting?

· Would you rather make a larger upfront investment for long-term convenience?

Fixed dentures allow for more freedom and a natural feel, while removable dentures offer more flexibility and adjustability.

Budget and Timeline

· Are you looking for a cost-effective short-term solution?

· Would you prefer a durable, permanent restoration?

· Is financing or insurance coverage a deciding factor?

At Metropolitan Prosthodontics, we offer flexible financing and transparent guidance to help you choose wisely without financial surprises.

Why Choose Metropolitan Prosthodontics?

As a top-rated prosthodontist Plymouth residents trust, Dr. Christopher Sasik and the Metropolitan Prosthodontics team specialize in complex restorations with an emphasis on personalized care. Whether you need a Minneapolis prosthodontist for a second opinion or are ready to start treatment, we ensure a smooth, compassionate experience from start to finish.

What sets us apart?

· Advanced Expertise: We are experts in both removable and implant-supported dentures.

· Cutting-Edge Technology: Digital scans, 3D imaging, and precise fitting for maximum comfort.

· Comprehensive Consultation: Every patient receives a detailed, one-on-one assessment to explore all options.

· Local Trust: For years, we’ve been the answer to searches for a “prosthodontist near me” in the Twin Cities area.

Finding the Right Denture Solution Starts Here

Tooth loss can feel like a setback, but with the right solution, it can be the beginning of a new, confident chapter in your life. Whether you're leaning toward the stability of fixed dentures or the flexibility of removable ones, the team at Metropolitan Prosthodontics is here to help you navigate the path forward with confidence and clarity.

Call 763-230-0683 today to schedule your personalized consultation at our Plymouth, MN office. Let us help you rediscover your smile—and your confidence—with the denture option that’s right for you.