A palateless denture is shaped like an arch and is roofless, such that it has no upper plate touching the roof of your mouth. This upper denture is held in place by snapping or screwing onto dental implants.
A conventional upper denture relies on the palate to provide suction and stability of the appliance by increasing the surface area of the denture-bearing area. Without such support, a roofless (horseshoe) denture is typically anchored to implants for stability.
That said, you may also opt for a palateless upper denture if you’re not a good candidate for implants, or simply want to avoid the costly and lengthy process of getting dental implants. This type of denture is designed to be held in place by the suction of your cheeks, and denture adhesive, instead of implants.
Patients who wear this type of denture may find that it requires more practice to become accustomed to. If you find your roofless denture to be loose and less stable, you’ll have to rely on denture adhesive and other remedies for loose dentures to maximize stability.
How do palateless dentures without implants stay in?
A complete traditional denture with a palate relies on suction forces in the roof of the mouth to stay in place. A palateless denture, on the other hand, is held in place by dental implants.
While palate-less dentures typically rely on dental implants for support and stability, there are alternative options available for patients who prefer not to have dental implants or are not suitable candidates for implant placement.
Usually, their palateless denture have to rely on a combination of suction, friction, and bonding materials to stay in place.
1. Suction-retained dentures
Suction helps keep the denture in place by adhering it to the walls of the mouth (cheeks). These dentures are designed to create a seal against the natural suction of the mouth, allowing them to stay in place without the need for an extended palate. This technique relies on the shape and contour of the denture, as well as the natural suction created by the tongue, lips, and muscles of the mouth, to provide stability and retention.
2. Friction
Palateless dentures are custom-made to fit a patient’s unique anatomy, making them even more comfortable and secure. This helps hold the denture in place by forming a tight fit between the denture and the gum tissue. Some dentures also have a special coating inside them that helps them grip and stay in place better.
3. Bonding materials
Another option is the use of adhesive materials to secure the denture in place. Denture adhesive products can help enhance the fit and stability of the denture, reducing the need for a palate to provide additional support. These adhesives create a temporary bond between the denture and the underlying tissues, allowing for improved comfort and confidence during everyday activities.
- Your dentist may recommend a suitable denture adhesives that is applied to hold the denture in place. You can also try other home remedies for loose dentures to enhance stability.
- Additionally, your dentist may suggest adding clasps or liners (soft liners or all-acrylic liners) to enhance retention and provide added comfort.
With all of these components working together, palateless dentures can easily stay in place throughout the day and make eating and speaking easier.
Challenges of Palateless dentures without implants
Keep in mind that palate-less dentures without implants may not offer the same level of stability and retention as implant-supported dentures.
Dental implants provide a firm foundation for the denture, preventing it from slipping or shifting while speaking or eating. Implants also stimulate the jawbone, helping to maintain its structure and prevent bone loss.
Without implants, the denture relies solely on a good fit and suction or adhesive for stability, which may not be as reliable for some individuals, especially with your gums changing due to bone resorption.
Pros and cons of palateless dentures without implants
Pros | Cons |
More comfortable than traditional dentures | Less stable than implant-supported palateless dentures |
Open palate enhances your taste and food enjoyment | Easily dislodged compared to dentures with palate and implanted-supported dentures |
Beneficial for patients who have sensitive gag reflex | Must use adhesive – (no adhesive needed for implant-supported dentures) |
Feels more like natural teeth | Lack implants to stimulate the jawbone, which may lead to shrinkage of facial tissues |
Cheaper (no cost of getting implants) | More prone to damage (breakage), compared to the more stable implant-supported dentures |
Can be worn immediately without the lengthy recovery period of implants. | They are removable, and likely to get damaged if mishandled |
Final thoughts
The suitability of palate-less dentures without implants depends on various factors, including the individual’s oral health, jawbone structure, and personal preferences. It is recommended to consult with a dentist or prosthodontist who specializes in denture fabrication to determine the most appropriate treatment option based on your specific needs and circumstances.
