Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant Dentistry

Implant-supported or implant-retained dentures use dental implants and specialized attachments to stabilize a replacement arch of teeth. Compared with a conventional denture, implants may reduce unwanted movement while speaking and eating.

The exact design, number, and type of implants depend on your oral health, available bone, existing denture, and treatment goals.

Removable and fixed options

These restorations are not all the same:

• A removable implant overdenture attaches to implants but can be removed by the patient for daily cleaning. It may use conventional or small-diameter implants, sometimes called mini implants.
• A fixed full-arch restoration is secured to implants and can only be removed by a dental professional.

Potential benefits

Depending on the selected design, potential benefits may include:

• Greater retention and stability than a conventional denture
• Less movement while speaking or eating
• Reduced reliance on denture adhesive
• Less irritation caused by a loose or shifting denture
• Improved comfort and confidence during everyday activities

Results vary, and implant support does not guarantee that every patient will eat all foods comfortably, speak perfectly, or avoid future denture adjustments.

What treatment involves

Treatment begins with an examination, health-history review, and appropriate imaging. Your dentist will assess your gums, jawbone, bite, existing denture, and ability to maintain the restoration. The process may include:

1. Planning the implant positions and denture design
2. Surgically placing the implants
3. Allowing the implants and surrounding bone to heal
4. Creating a new denture or adapting an appropriate existing denture
5. Connecting the denture to the implant attachments
6. Making follow-up adjustments as your mouth adapts

The exact process and timeline vary. Bone grafting or coordination with a surgical specialist may be recommended in some cases.

Are you a candidate?

Candidacy depends on factors including:

• The health of your gums and jawbone
• Your general health and ability to heal
• Tobacco use
• Diabetes and other medical conditions
• Current medications
• History of gum disease
• Your ability to clean around the implants and denture

Mini implants may be appropriate in selected situations, but they are not automatically the best solution for every patient.

Ongoing care

A removable implant overdenture should generally be removed and cleaned according to your dentist's instructions. The denture, attachments, gums, tongue, and areas around the implants all require regular care.

Attachments and denture components can wear over time. The restoration may eventually require adjustments, replacement inserts, relining, repair, or remaking. Regular professional maintenance is also essential to monitor:

• The gums and bone around the implants
• Attachment wear
• Denture fit and stability
• Plaque or tartar buildup
• Changes in your bite

Contact the practice if you notice bleeding, swelling, discomfort, looseness, clicking, or a change in fit.