There is a difference between implant-supported and implant-retained dentures. An implant-supported denture includes the implant and any function that goes onto the denture.  The majority of denture cases fro which implants are place are implant-retained dentures, which means the implants are there to retain the denture in the mouth and provide stability.  The actual biting forces are supported by the hard and soft tissues.
     The factors that need to be taken into account when deciding between the types of implant-retained dentures is the patient's ability for hygiene.  Certainly a fully removeable denture is easier to maintain hygienically. Overall, the benefits of implant retained dentures are overwheliming.  The most outstanding or obvious benefit is the improved retention of the appliance, as well as a significant decrease in sore spots.
     The biggest change we have seen is the improvement of patients' quality of life and this improved quality of life is translated into the patients' confidence.  Once they have a denture that they know won't move or fall out of their mouth, all of a sudden you start to see their facial muscles relax, and their facial appearance is greatly improved.