Modern Family Dental
Implant Retained Dentures
Losing one or more teeth is always a disheartening experience, but with implant-retained dentures, patients at our practice can enjoy comfortable prosthetics that help them feel more confident and comfortable by avoiding the risks of embarrassing slippage.
What are implant-retained dentures?
Implant-retained dentures are dentures that are attached to dental implants, special titanium posts that are implanted into the jaw bones. Implant posts provide a solid anchor for dentures that usually rely solely on adhesives and a snug fit to remain in place. The dentures “clip on” using a simple attachment mechanism so they can be easily removed for cleaning and during sleep.
What are the benefits of implant-retained dentures compared to traditional dentures that rest on the gums?
Because the dentures are attached to posts which are implanted into the jaw bone, they can’t slip out of position like traditional dentures that rest on the gums, and they are far less likely to cause sore spots and other friction-related problems. That means you can feel more confident when wearing your dentures, and they will also be more comfortable. Plus, because they are firmly attached, you can eat more foods without worrying about your dentures coming loose. And, of course, you can eliminate the need for messy, sticky adhesives.
What is involved in the implant procedure?
Implant posts can be implanted into your jaw in a single procedure. If you don’t have enough remaining jaw bone to support the implant, you may need to have a bone graft to augment the natural bone. The grafting procedure can be performed at the same time as the post implantation or it may be performed in advance of the post placement, depending on your needs. After the post (and graft, if needed) is in place, you’ll need to wait a few months to allow the post to fuse with your natural bone and become stable enough to secure the denture. Once the post is secure, the denture can be attached to the post using a special piece called an abutment.