21
Jan
The Difference Between Hybrid Dentures and Traditional Dentures
Reviewed by Dr. Ava Khodakhast
|
Reading time: three minutes
Reading time: three minutesYou want teeth that stay in place when you talk, feel comfortable when you eat, and don’t constantly remind you they’re there. Hybrid dentures (implant supported dentures) and traditional dentures can both restore your smile, but they feel very different day to day.
Table of Contents
What Are Traditional Dentures?
Traditional dentures are removable prosthetic teeth that sit on top of the gums. Upper dentures usually rely on suction against the roof of the mouth, while lower dentures rest on the gum ridge and surrounding muscles.
They can look very natural and restore your smile quickly, but because they sit on soft tissue, they may shift as your mouth changes over time. Periodic adjustments and relines help maintain comfort and fit.
What Are Hybrid Dentures (Implant Supported Dentures)?
Hybrid dentures are supported by dental implants placed in the jaw. In many cases, they stay securely attached and are removed only by your dentist for maintenance. You don’t take them out daily like traditional dentures.
Because implants anchor the teeth, hybrid dentures don’t depend on suction or adhesives. That added stability is often what makes them feel more “teeth-like” for many patients.
Hybrid Dentures vs. Traditional Dentures: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Traditional Dentures | Hybrid Dentures |
| Stability | May move, especially on the lower arch | Designed to stay secure |
| Gum pressure | More pressure on gums | Less reliance on gum tissue |
| Chewing confidence | Some food restrictions | Stronger, more stable bite |
| Upper palate coverage | Often covers the roof of the mouth | Usually less bulky |
| Daily removal | Yes | No (removed by dentist) |
Comfort and Daily Function
Traditional dentures can feel comfortable once the mouth adapts, but pressure on the gums and slight movement may occur over time. Changes in fit are common as the jawbone naturally shifts.
Hybrid dentures tend to feel more stable during eating and speaking because the implants absorb chewing forces. Many patients also notice less bulk in the mouth, particularly with upper dentures that do not require full palate coverage.
Practical Differences to Consider
Traditional dentures may appeal to people who want a removable, non-surgical option with a lower upfront cost. Hybrid dentures are often chosen by those who prioritize stability, chewing confidence, and a feel closer to fixed teeth.
Both options require ongoing care. Traditional dentures need periodic relines, while hybrid dentures require consistent cleaning and regular professional maintenance to protect the implants.
Why a Prosthodontist’s Input Is Important
The difference between traditional dentures and hybrid dentures is not only how they are made, but how they interact with your jaw, gums, and bite over time.
Dr. Ava Khodakhast is a board-certified prosthodontist with advanced training in tooth replacement and implant-supported restorations. This expertise allows her to evaluate which denture design will provide better stability, comfort, and long-term function based on your oral structure. That level of assessment is especially important when comparing removable dentures to implant-supported options.
Explore Your Denture Options
If you are considering your options for dentures, a consultation can help apply the differences between traditional and hybrid dentures to your specific oral health needs.
To learn which option may be right for you, book an appointment at our dental office in Centennial, CO. Call (303) 770-2254 or visit us at 8120 S Holly St #208, Centennial, CO 80122.
FAQ
Do hybrid dentures feel more natural than traditional dentures?
Many patients say hybrid dentures feel more natural because they stay secure during eating and speaking and function more like natural teeth than removable appliances.
Are traditional dentures uncomfortable?
With proper fit and regular adjustments, traditional dentures can be comfortable. Changes in the mouth over time, including bone loss, may mean they need more maintenance.
Do hybrid dentures cover the roof of the mouth?
Many hybrid fixed dentures reduce or eliminate palate coverage, which can improve comfort and help food taste and feel more natural.
Which option is better for lower dentures?
Lower traditional dentures tend to move more because of limited suction. Implant-supported dental solutions, including hybrid dentures, often provide better stability for the lower arch.
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Dr. Ava Khodakhast
Immerse yourself in the world of exquisite dental artistry crafted by Dr. Ava Khodakhast, a
distinguished prosthodontist whose journey is a testament to the fusion of science and art in
dentistry. With an unwavering commitment to elevating lives through her specialized expertise, Dr.
Khodakhast has redefined the landscape of prosthodontics, captivating hearts with her transformative
work.
Embarking on her odyssey in 2000 as a Doctor of Dental Surgery, Dr. Khodakhast's passion for her
craft led her to traverse continents for knowledge. She pursued her American DDS at the esteemed
University of Missouri, Kansas
City, setting the foundation for a remarkable career. Yet, her thirst
for mastery pushed her to delve deeper. Venturing into the realm of complexity, she dedicated three
intensive years at the Medical College of Georgia, earning a master's in Oral
Biology and seamlessly
entwining it with a Residency in Prosthodontics.
Prosthodontics is the symphony of precision and creativity, where every note is a smile transformed.
Dr. Khodakhast is a virtuoso in this art, specializing in intricate cosmetic makeovers, implant
procedures, and comprehensive mouth rehabilitation. Recognized as a "Diplomate" by
the American Board of
Prosthodontics and as a "Fellow" by the American College of Prosthodontists, she soars
among the select few who define excellence in this arena. Her certification as a prosthodontist is a
testament to her rigorous education and training, making her a beacon of expertise for dental and
maxillofacial reconstruction and rehabilitation. Dentists themselves entrust their patients to her
care, a testament to her unparalleled mastery.
A luminary in academia, Dr. Khodakhast served as the assistant director of Advanced Education in
General Dentistry at the University
of Missouri in Kansas City. She also worked in private practice
at UMKC, applying the techniques and skills she taught in complicated, aesthetic case settings.
During her junior year of college, she graced India with her charitable work, a touch of humanity
that infuses her artistry with compassion.
Emanating from the core of her being is a dedication to her patient's well-being. You can rely on
her to provide unparalleled care rooted in scientific precision and artistic commitment.