Implant Retained Dentures

Replacing missing teeth with implant retained dentures

 

Usually, when you lose a tooth, it is best for your oral health to replace it. Missing teeth can affect your “bite” as well as your ability to speak and chew. Their loss can increase the burden on your remaining teeth and can cause jaw muscle pain and headaches. And of course, losing a tooth can affect your appearance. The following information reviews replacing missing teeth with an implant retained denture.

Although many patients have no problem wearing an upper denture, some find it difficult to wear and eat with a lower denture. Several implant-supported replacement options are available if you are missing all of your lower teeth.

What if I’m missing all of my lower teeth?

Ball Attachment Denture

One option is to have two implants placed in your lower jaw and a denture that snaps onto them. option allows your lower denture to be more stable while chewing than it would be without implants. However, there will still be some movement of your lower denture, and sore spots will occur if any food particles, especially seeds, are caught under it. As with all removable replacement teeth, you will still need periodic appointments for denture adjustment.

Bar Attachment Denture

Another option is to place four to six implants in your lower jaw, depending on your jaw size or shape. After healing is complete, the implants are connected with a custom-made support bar. Your denture will be made with special internal retention clips that attach onto the support bar, enabling the denture to snap firmly into place. This is called an “overdenture.” The advantage of this option is that it is much more stable than the first option and allows very little denture movement. Your denture is still removable for easy cleaning and maintenance.

Screw Retained Denture

A third option involves placing five or more implants in your jaw and attaching a permanent denture. Your denture is held in place by screws or clasps that secure it to the support posts or bar. It doesn’t touch the gum tissue, which allows you to clean under the denture without removing it. This denture will replace all your missing lower teeth and will not be removed except at maintenance visits. Although cleaning under your denture without removing it is more time-consuming and requires more dexterity, many patients who want a permanent denture prefer this option.

What If I’m Missing All Of My Upper Teeth?

A similar range of treatment options is also available for your upper jaw. However, because the bone is not as hard as that in the lower jaw, people often need more implants to support their new replacement teeth.

Implant Retained Upper Denture

Depending on the number of implants to be placed, it may be possible to eliminate the need to cover the roof of your mouth with a complete denture. This option allows you to fully taste your food and gives you a better sense of its temperature. Your denture will feel more natural. You will still have a removable denture, which makes cleaning the support bar and denture much easier.

Benefits of Implant Retained Dentures

  • Increased stability with less shifting, pinching, and slipping.
  • Improved chewing ability and the opportunity to eat a wider range of foods.
  • No need for denture adhesives.
  • Preservation of the jawbone due to the implants stimulating bone growth.
  • A natural appearance and improved smile.

Implant Retained Denture FAQs

How long does it take to get implant retained dentures?

From placement of the dental implants to the final attachment of your permanent denture, the process can take several months. A portion of this is the time it takes for the dental implants to fuse with the surrounding jawbone. During this time, however, we can provide a temporary denture.

How do I care for my implant retained dentures?

Brush your removable denture with a soft-bristle brush and either denture paste or a mild liquid hand soap. You should also brush your gums and the area around the implant posts or connectors, and rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash.

How do I store my implant retained dentures?

When you are not wearing them, store them in cool water to prevent cracking, drying out, or warping.

How long do implant retained dentures last?

Most implant retained dentures last 10-15 years before needing replacement. They tend to require fewer repairs or relines because they do not shift or slip as much as traditional dentures.

If you are not satisfied with your current dentures or need missing teeth replaced, please contact our office at Bristol County Dentists Phone Number 508-695-3719 to schedule an appointment to discuss your implant retained denture options.