Implant Retained Dentures
Also known as implant-supported dentures, are a type of denture that is securely anchored to dental implants embedded in the bone. This provides increased stability and comfort compared to traditional dentures. The implants prevent the dentures from slipping, making it easier to eat and speak, and also help maintain jawbone health.
If you are missing an entire arch of teeth due to injury or disease, whether it’s your lower or upper arch, it is possible to replace that arch with implant dentures. Implant-supported dentures are dentures fixed to the gums by implants. For patients with an uncomfortable or loose-fitting denture, stabilizing it with implants can be a more comfortable and functional solution.
Implant dentures are the preferred choice over removable dentures because they look and act just like natural teeth, they don’t fall when you’re eating or talking, they prevent bone loss in your jaw, and they last a very long time.
You might need an implant-retained denture if:
-
Stability Issues: Traditional dentures can be unstable, causing them to slip or move while eating or speaking.
-
Jawbone Preservation: You want to prevent bone loss in the jaw, which can occur with traditional dentures over time.
-
Improved Function: You desire better chewing efficiency and overall functionality compared to traditional dentures.
-
Long-Term Solution: You're seeking a more permanent and durable solution for missing teeth.
-
Enhanced Comfort: If you experience discomfort or soreness with conventional dentures.
​
Implant-retained dentures can provide a significant improvement in quality of life for those experiencing these issues.
Procedure
On your first visit for dental implants, we will start the the Exam and X-rays to create a treatment plan that’s right for you, we’ll also make sure you have adequate existing jawbone in order to support the dental implants. This appointment is your chance to make your dentist aware of any relevant medical information, and to ask any questions you may have regarding the procedure.
The procedure starts by numbing the area where your implant dentures will be placed. They will then place implants first and securely anchor them in the surrounding bone.
Attachments are placed in the underside of the denture, which connect to the implants themselves. When the whole denture is placed in your mouth, the denture snaps onto the implants and keeps the denture stable.
Depending on how many implants are needed, the implant dental surgery can take one to three hours. Post-surgery discomfort is common but can be managed with over the counter anti-inflammatory medication, though some patients don’t even need it.
You will need to take it easy on your new implant dentures for a while after they are placed. Your dentist will advise you to eat soft foods, nothing crunchy or chewy, until your healing process is complete. It may take up to three months to heal.
Benefits
The process of getting your implant dentures is indeed worth it. Implant dentures offer many great benefits that will last you a lifetime:
-
More confidence when you talk, laugh, and eat in public
-
More comfort since they are secure and feel like natural teeth
-
They look just like natural teeth
-
Prevents jaw shrinkage and bone loss
-
No need for denture adhesives