WHAT ARE IMPLANT RETAINED DENTURES

What are Implant Retained Dentures

Affordable Modern Dentures

Many people that are missing all of their upper and/or lower teeth find that conventional dentures are simply unsatisfactory, both in feel and functionality. Resting on the gums, conventional dentures may fit well at first, but as the jawbone and/or gums change their shape, eventually conventional dentures can start to loosen and lose their ideal fit. After time the bony ridge that supported your now-missing original teeth no longer gets the same stimulation it once did from your natural tooth roots, and so the bony ridge becomes narrower and flatter, which makes dentures increasingly harder to wear comfortably and usually results in less support of the facial muscles. With less support of the facial muscles a “collapsed-in” look is often a result with partial or full dentures. Conventional dentures can also be uncomfortable enough to keep people from eating food that they enjoy. In addition, concerns about how dentures will function can contribute to loss of confidence for many people, especially in social situations.

Implant-Retained Dentures

Unlike conventional dentures that rest on the gums, implant retained dentures do not move, which allows for full confidence in eating, as well as improved support of lips and cheeks which can restore more natural facial dimensions. Implant retained dentures do not rest on the gums, but rather snap or clip onto dental implants and remain in place securely unless removed for cleaning. Implant retained dentures are stable, strong, and a cost-effective way to talk and eat confidently and comfortably.

To hold a lower implant-retained denture in proper place, often only 2-4 dental implants are needed. Since lower dentures rely just on the bony ridge for retention and support, they can be most problematic. Implant retained dentures can replace upper dentures as well, but often more dental implants are needed for support. However, since an implant-retained upper denture, like a lower denture, is actually horseshoe shape it is less bulky and allows for the upper palate to be uncovered. Besides being considerably more comfortable, the uncovering of the upper palate also allows for more taste buds to be revealed, which then allows for fuller tasting experiences. So, in addition to being able to enjoy a wider range of foods again, implant-retained dentures can allow for a much fuller experience of taste.

Who Are Implant-Retained Dentures For?

Dental implants can be used by most people, while implant-retained dentures are specifically most suitable for people that have been missing teeth for a long time, since use of the available jaw bone is maximized making bone grafts less likely. And age is not a limiting factor as long as a person has reasonable general and dental health. Implant-retained dentures can be cost-effective and there are definite benefits to having implant-supported teeth. When consulting with your dentist your dental and general health will be fully assessed, and the optimal denture treatment for you will be discussed.