Fixed bridges vs. prostheses

Removable vs. fixed prostheses

There are essentially two different solutions for treating completely edentulous jaws with dental implants: removable dentures or fixed bridges. The choice between these options depends on various factors in addition to personal preference:

• Removable dentures are ideal if you already wear dentures, get on well with them and just want a firmer hold.
• Fixed (implant-supported) bridges are particularly suitable for younger patients with sufficient bone mass who want a permanent solution such as All-on-4/6. 

At our specialist practice for oral and maxillofacial surgery in Vienna, we will find out together in one or two consultations which solution best suits your needs. We are happy to offer cost estimates for both options to make your decision easier. Arrange your appointment online.

Removable dentures vs. fixed bridges: Frequently asked questions from patients

What happens if an implant is lost later?

With removable dentures, the loss of a dental implant is usually not a major problem, as the denture can be adapted. Removable works have a clear advantage here.
With fixed bridges, the loss of an implant can mean that the bridge cannot be retained in the long term. Either a new implant must then be placed or a removable restoration is fabricated for the existing situation. In some cases, the bridge can continue to be worn despite the absence of an implant.

Can existing implants be used for further treatment if the remaining teeth are lost?

Yes, it is usually possible to use existing implants for a new treatment - provided they are free of inflammation (see peri-implantitis) and are positioned appropriately. Manufacturer information about the brand and type is required in any case.

My dentist says I have too little bone for an implant-supported prosthesis or fixed bridge.

We often find a solution and our dental technicians manage to produce a reasonable restoration. Sometimes this requires bone grafting. Removable dentures are more flexible and require less bone mass than fixed bridges.

Advantages & types of removable implant-supported dentures

Removable prostheses offer the following advantages: 

• quality restoration often possible with little bone
• Less expensive compared to fixed bridges
• the prosthesis itself is removable and therefore easier to clean and repair
• variable adaptation options in the event of implant loss

We essentially differentiate between the following three variants: 

Spherical head anchor

This is the simplest variant, in which two to four implants are fitted with spherical press studs that snap into the prosthesis. The advantage of anchoring with at least two implants compared to a prosthesis in the lower jaw without implant support is already very significant. However, with only two implants, the denture may tilt when eating. Denture adhesive can help here. A largely stable anchorage is usually possible with four implants or more. 

Our tip for a cost-effective solution: 

You can find more information here: Senior implants

Locator-supported prostheses

This is a kind of qualitative improvement on the ball head anchor, but is very similar in terms of technology. The parts used are of a slightly higher quality. A new metal-reinforced prosthesis is usually fabricated for this. Locators allow greater flexibility in the design of the prosthesis due to their low height. One major advantage is that the implants are easy to clean as they are very accessible.

Our tip if you want good retention and easy cleaning.

Bar prostheses

The highest-quality variant of the restoration option with removable dentures: Here, at least two implants are connected via a firmly screwed-on metal bar. This is usually 2 - 3 millimetres thick. The prosthesis can be locked onto this bar using retaining elements. Support via the bar provides a particularly good hold and is the most stable form of removable restoration option.

What is the difference between these three variants?

The costs vary depending on whether you only want two implants in an existing prosthesis with ball head anchors or a bar prosthesis that requires six implants. 

The strength is very variable. All solutions on two implants are significantly more mobile than solutions on four or more implants. The bar prosthesis is generally the most stable and the retaining elements rarely need to be replaced. 

There are also customised solutions that can be adapted to specific requirements and individual anatomical conditions. Dr Dr Felix Wick  will be happy to advise you: arrange your appointment online.