Traditional, removable dentures use gum colored base material to support numerous consecutive and nonconsecutive replacement teeth up to a full row. For partial tooth loss, a partial denture is used to close the gaps in the smile. Removable partials are held in place with connectors attached to remaining teeth. Without healthy teeth to provide support, traditional dentures are molded to fit against the soft tissue, creating suction that holds the denture in position. Implant dentures look much like their removable counterparts, but rather than relying on surrounding oral structures for support, these self-supporting restorations are anchored to tooth root-mimicking dental implants.

Thanks to advances in the techniques and technologies associated with implant tooth replacement, almost any patient is a good candidate for implant dentures. The ideal candidate would meet the following criteria:

• Good oral hygiene habits and commitment to maintaining oral health
• No tobacco usage
• Healthy enough for minor surgical procedures and/or given physician approval for treatment
• Have adequate gum and bone tissue to support implant posts or have received graft procedures to improve supportive structures
• Committed to completing a complex, multi-phase treatment plan that can take months, a year, or longer

Replacing missing teeth with implant-retained dentures is a complex process with numerous steps that need to be considered. Every person’s treatment plan will be unique to the individual’s needs, but the basic process includes:

• Planning and preparation – we’ll create your treatment plan and provide any preparatory tooth extractions and tissue grafts
• Implant placement – we’ll surgical place dental implant posts to provide support for your partial or full denture
• Abutment attachment – after the implants fuse with the jawbone, we attach the abutments, which anchor your restoration to the implant posts, and we design your partial or full denture
• Restoration – after we receive your custom partial or full denture from our lab, you’ll return to the dental office, so we can affix your denture to the implants

Still not sure dental implant supported dentures are the best option for you? We encourage you to take your time and consider all aspects of this complex treatment before you move forward. As you’re considering your restoration options, keep the following benefits of implant-retained dentures in mind:

• Long-lasting – traditional dentures should be replaced at least every five to ten years for proper function. Implant dentures can last two decades or longer with proper care.
• Confidence-building – once in place, you implant denture will look just like natural, allowing you to speak and smile with total confidence.
• Flawless-functioning – removable dentures only allow you about 20% of healthy chewing function, which limits diet significantly. Implant dentures restore chewing ability by 70% or more, allowing you to eat your favorite foods.
• Easy-cleaning – you can brush your implant denture just like you would your healthy smile. No need to remove the denture for cleaning or store the prosthetic overnight.
• Self-supporting – removable dentures and other traditional tooth replacement prosthetics rely on support from healthy teeth and soft tissue. Because dental implants replace the lost roots of teeth, they are fully self-supporting, which protects surrounding teeth and oral structures from damage.

Implant Retained Dentures are an excellent way to invest in your health and confidence for a lifetime. If you have more questions about Implant Retained Dentures or would like to schedule your complimentary consultation, don’t hesitate to give us a call today or fill out the form below!