What are Implant Dentures?

Implant-supported dentures are restorations placed to restore an upper and/or lower dental arch after a patient has lost most or all of their teeth. By affixing a denture to the jawbone with implants, there is no longer a need for dental adhesives — patients can replace their smile with less mess and more security when compared to traditional removable dentures. Furthermore, the dental implants inserted into the gums to anchor a denture can stimulate the underlying jawbone and prevent further erosion of the bone structure (a well-known consequence of missing teeth). Best of all, implant dentures are designed to look and feel like a natural part of  your smile.

What are the Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures?

Implant-supported dentures offer a variety of benefits, from improved functionality to enhanced comfort and security. Implant dentures provide a valuable upgrade to traditional dentures in many ways. Some notable advantages include:

• Increased ability to chew tough foods
• Increased confidence while eating, speaking, or drinking
• Enhanced comfort, as dentures no longer slip along the gums
• Eliminated worry of dentures coming loose or falling out
• Eliminated need for pastes or adhesives
• Decreased need for denture maintenance
• Reduced bone loss

It’s also possible to anchor a partial denture in cases wherein patients are only missing a portion of their dental arches. This involves a similar process to treatment for implant-supported bridges, which secure a dental bridge to the jawbone rather than a complete denture. Your dentist can ultimately go over all your tooth replacement options with you to find the most ideal solution for your needs.

What are My Implant Denture Options?

There are many implant denture options available to restore missing portions of your smile. Treatment options include securing a full or partial denture, as well as utilizing standard-sized or mini dental implants. With regard to partial dentures, implants offer the ability to affix a restoration without the need for the unsightly metal clasps traditionally used to stabilize partials. Drs. Klumb and Menolascino will thoroughly discuss these options with you in more detail to determine the best treatment plan for your needs and goals.

All-on-4®

All-on-4® refers to a technique designed to secure a full denture using only four to six strategically placed dental implants. Whereas other methods of anchoring a denture often require several implants, All-on-4® can generally achieve stability using four implants inserted at meticulous angles. This can reduce recovery time, costs, and invasiveness when compared to other implant denture techniques. Best of all, the implants utilized during All-on-4® treatment allow for the immediate placement of a transitional set of teeth! Therefore, patients can often restore their entire smile in just one day, with the permanent set of dentures typically placed four to six months later.

Learn more about All-on-4® implant dentures.

Are Implant Dentures Right for Me?

Implant-supported dentures require a certain amount of jawbone density for the procedure to be successful. Also, implant candidates must have healthy gums and be in relatively good health to facilitate proper healing. Any dental work or periodontal care necessary to the health of existing teeth and gums may need to be done before the implant procedure. If you are not an ideal candidate for implant supported dentures, Dr. Klumb or Dr. Menolascino can evaluate your needs and recommend another restorative dental treatment that can better serve you.

How is the Implant Denture Procedure Performed?

In order to secure your dentures, dental implants will be placed underneath the gumline where your natural tooth roots were originally located. The number of implants necessary to properly anchor your denture will depend on your needs and the volume of jawbone available for support. The implants will then be left to fuse with the underlying jawbone over a period of several months. In the meantime, an upper and/or lower denture will be custom-crafted to fit naturally within your smile. Once your gums are fully healed, abutments will be placed on top of your dental implants, which will serve as the “fastening points” for your custom dentures. Your permanent set of dentures will then be attached to the abutments, and you should be able to enjoy a newfound sense of confidence and security when eating, speaking, or smiling!