What are Implant Dentures?
An implant denture looks similar to a traditional denture with one key difference: the prosthetic attaches to a series of dental implants surgically placed inside of the jaw. This is dramatically different than how dentures typically stay in place (i.e. through natural suction to the gums). The implants are designed to mimic the tooth roots as closely as possible. As a result, your tooth replacement feels more natural, lifelike, and functional, whether you’re eating, speaking, or smiling.
Depending on your needs and preferences, you can have your implant denture be removable or fixed. Below, you can read more about the differences ahead of your consultation.
Fixed/Permanent Implant Dentures
A fixed implant denture is meant to stay attached permanently, whether you’re performing oral hygiene at home or receiving a cleaning at a dental office. If it does require removal, it would only be taken out by a dentist. In most cases, four to six dental implants are needed to hold a fixed denture, which means you’ll need more jawbone density to receive this option.
Removable Implant Dentures
A denture that’s designed to be removable or “snap-on” to dental implants is generally easier to clean and requires fewer dental implants to attach. If you prefer a denture that feels more traditional and only needs about two to five implants, then this may be a better solution for your tooth loss.
The Implant Denture Procedure
Dr. G places and restores dental implants all in-house, so you can expect your dental implant treatment to be more convenient to complete. The process is broken into four specific categories: initial consultation, implant surgery, osseointegration, and restoration. After planning your treatment, we’ll get you scheduled for surgery where the implants will be placed inside of the jaw. After the gum tissue is stitched closed, we’ll allow four to six months for the implants to fuse with your bone tissue. Following a series of follow-up appointments, you’ll be scheduled to receive your permanent restoration.
Am I a Candidate for Implant Dentures?
More adults are eligible for implant dentures than ever, but there are certain qualifications you’ll need to meet to receive them confidently. After discussing your specific goals, we’ll confirm you have the following:
- Good oral and overall health (and capable of undergoing oral surgery)
- Sufficient bone tissue for the implants to integrate
- No existing dental disease (i.e. tooth decay, gum disease, etc.)
Benefits of Combining Dentures & Dental Implants
By opting for implant dentures over a traditional option, you’ll experience many benefits that you won’t find from the latter. For example, you can expect:
- A denture that does not slip or shift out of place
- A more natural-feeling tooth replacement thanks to the implant posts’ integration
- A lifelike smile that looks incredibly natural
- A long-lasting solution (dental implants last on average 30 years and longer)
- The ability to eat all your favorite foods with relative ease
- Easier at-home oral hygiene
- No need for denture adhesives or other products to keep your prosthetic in place