Missing teeth can change your entire life. Meals become more stressful, limiting your options. Conversations make you self-conscious, hiding your smile behind your hand. But there’s a solution! When you’re ready to restore your smile, the choice between All-on-X and traditional dentures will determine not just how your teeth look, but how they actually work for the next 20 years.
At Mesa Dental, Dr. Emily Browner helps Summerlin patients understand their tooth replacement options so they can make educated choices about their oral health. Our practice focuses on quality care and science-backed dentistry to help you achieve lasting results.
How All-on-X Works
All-on-X uses four to six dental implants placed strategically in your jaw to support a full arch of prosthetic teeth. The implants are positioned at specific angles to maximize bone contact, which means most patients can receive their new teeth without needing bone grafting. Dental implants work as artificial tooth roots that fuse with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration.
The number in “All-on-X” refers to how many implants support your new teeth. All-on-4 uses four implants, while All-on-6 uses six. Your dentist will determine the correct number based on your bone density and oral health. This restorative treatment provides a permanent solution that doesn’t move or slip like traditional dentures.
How Traditional Dentures Work
Traditional dentures rest on your gums and stay in place through suction and adhesives. They replace all upper or lower teeth with removable prosthetics made from acrylic resin and plastic. You take them out each night for cleaning and to give your gums time to rest.
Complete dentures require you to have all your teeth extracted before placement. Your dentist takes impressions of your mouth to create custom dentures that fit your gum shape. The fit may change over time as your jawbone naturally shrinks without tooth roots to stimulate it, requiring adjustments or new dentures every five to seven years.
Stability and Function Differences
All-on-X provides stability that closely mimics natural teeth. The implants anchor firmly in your jawbone so you can bite and chew confidently. You can eat tough or sticky foods without worry, and your speech remains natural. The prosthetic teeth don’t shift or click when you talk or laugh.
Traditional dentures move around more because they rely on suction rather than anchored support. This movement can make eating difficult and cause sore spots on your gums. Many denture wearers avoid certain foods and feel self-conscious about their teeth slipping during conversations.
Care and Maintenance Requirements
All-on-X teeth stay in your mouth permanently, so you care for them like natural teeth. You brush twice daily, floss with special tools, and visit your dentist for regular checkups. The prosthetic teeth resist staining better than natural enamel, but you should still maintain good oral hygiene to protect your gums and implants.
Traditional dentures require removal for cleaning every night. You soak them in denture solution and brush them with a special cleaner. You also need to clean your gums and any remaining natural teeth. This routine takes more time and adds steps to your daily schedule.
Implant-supported teeth may need minor adjustments over the years, but the implants themselves can last decades with proper care. Traditional dentures typically need replacement every five to ten years as your mouth shape changes and the materials wear down.
Cost and Long-Term Value
All-on-X requires a larger initial investment than traditional dentures. The procedure involves surgical placement of implants, custom prosthetics, and specialized care. However, with proper maintenance, these teeth can last 20 years or longer, which means fewer replacements over your lifetime.
Traditional dentures cost less upfront but need regular adjustments and eventual replacement. The lifetime cost adds up when you factor in adhesives, cleaning products, and new dentures every several years. You may also need treatment for bone loss or gum irritation caused by ill-fitting dentures.
Many patients find that the improved quality of life with All-on-X justifies the higher initial cost. At Mesa Dental, we work with patients to explore payment plans and maximize insurance benefits for major dental work.
Bone Health and Facial Structure
Your jawbone needs stimulation from tooth roots to maintain its density. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, you can lose up to 25% of bone in an area within just the first three months after tooth loss. All-on-X implants provide this stimulation, which helps prevent bone loss and preserves your facial shape. This means you keep more of your natural appearance as you age.
Traditional dentures don’t stimulate your jawbone because they sit on top of your gums rather than integrating with the bone. Over time, this leads to bone resorption, which changes your face shape and causes your dentures to fit poorly. Some patients experience a collapsed facial appearance after years of wearing traditional dentures.
The bone preservation with All-on-X also protects your remaining oral structures and reduces the risk of additional tooth loss in adjacent areas. This creates a healthier foundation for your overall oral health.
Restore Your Smile at Mesa Dental
Choosing between All-on-X and traditional dentures depends on your oral health, budget, and long-term goals. Our team provides personalized consultations to help Summerlin patients understand which option best fits their needs. Our practice combines eastern and western dental techniques with a science-backed approach, and we’re certified in advanced procedures, including complex restorative work.
At Mesa Dental, we offer virtual consultations and flexible payment options to make quality dental care accessible. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about your tooth replacement options.
