What Are Implant-Supported Dentures

Dentures are used to replace a number of missing teeth in one area of the mouth, on an entire arch, or throughout the entire mouth. There are a few different types available so patients can find what will best suit their needs.

Partial Dentures

For patients missing just a few teeth in one specific area of their mouth, a partial denture can be used to restore their smile. A partial denture is attached to the neighboring teeth using acrylic or metal clasps to secure it in place. If there are healthy teeth on each side of the space, a partial denture can be secured into place using crowns on either end of the partial that is then cemented onto the surrounding healthy teeth. A partial denture that uses crowns cannot be removed for cleaning. Partials that use clasps can be taken out for cleaning and sleeping.

Full Dentures

For patients who are missing all of the teeth on one or both arches, a full denture can be fabricated. For a lower denture, a horse-shoe shaped acrylic base is fabricated to cover the entire structure of the arch. This shape allows space for the tongue to rest comfortably. For an upper denture, the acrylic base covers the entire upper palate of the mouth. The base is tinted to match the patient's gum tissue and porcelain teeth are individually set into the base. Full dentures can also be removed for cleaning and sleeping.

Implant-Supported Dentures

This denture cannot be removed for cleaning and the patient sleeps with them in. Implant-supported dentures are held in place using dental implants. A titanium implant is surgically placed into the jawbone and the denture is screwed down into the implant. Your dentist can remove the denture at your regular check-ups.

Since implant-supported dentures are screwed in, they are much more secure and stable than traditional dentures and are usually easier for patients to become accustomed to. This type of denture is not suitable for everyone since it does require surgery so patients with pre-existing medical conditions or those who cannot endure implant surgery and the six month healing period should consider sticking with a traditional denture.  Patients considering an implant-supported denture also need to have substantial healthy jawbone structure.

Caring for Your Dentures

Your dentist will show you how to care for your new dentures to make sure that you get the most out of them and that they last as long as possible. Removable dentures usually last up to 10 years but will likely require an adjustment every once in a while. Implant-supported dentures can last up to 20 years, though the actual implants can last a lifetime.

Even though you have a denture, it is extremely important to care for your gums at any remaining teeth. Without proper care, your gums can develop sores and your dentures can become ill-fitting. It is still important to receive professional cleanings at your Dentist's office at least twice a year.

Discuss any concerns you may have about dentures with your dentist. They can discuss your options and determine which type of denture will best suit your lifestyle and meet your needs.

More on Implant Supported Dentures : Implant Supported vs Conventional Dentures