Implant Retained Dentures

What are Implant Retained Dentures

While traditional dentures simply rest on the gums and are often required to be held in place with denture adhesive, implant-retained dentures snap into a set dental implants. The result is a secure denture that stays in place and looks fantastic.

With dentures that are supported by dental implants, you never need to spread on adhesive again. In addition, they help prevent jawbone erosion because the implant post takes the place of a tooth root in your bone tissue, thus stimulating bone to remain in place.

Implant Supported Dentures, Fixed Hybrids, and All-On-X Implant Prosthetics

You can go one step further and obtain the most stable full arch prosthesis known to dentistry. Once fabricated, these prosthetics are permanently screwed into your dental implants, so you will never have to remove them yourself. They still require annual removal and professional cleaning by your dentist, but are very stable prosthetics that can give you a new smile with fantastic functionality.

How are They Constructed

First, we measure your jaw to create a model of your mouth that the dental laboratory uses to create your custom-fitted dentures. Next, we surgically place the implants into your jaw and allow time for your bone and soft tissues to heal. Then, we fit your dentures over the implants. 

Some patients require a bone graft to keep implants secure. A graft helps regenerate new bone to support your dental implants.

While two implants often can hold a lower denture in place, four or more will work even better because additional implants reduce the overall stress placed on individual components. The placement of each implant is crucial to keeping your dentures in the correct location in your mouth.

Maintenance

If you correctly maintain your dentures, they can stay strong for decades. Here’s how to clean implant-retained dentures.

1. Take out your dentures and brush them, but do not use toothpaste. Place them overnight in a glass of water and denture-specific cleaning solution.

2. Inside your mouth, brush around the implants with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive cleanser that we recommend.

3. Before reattaching your dentures in the morning, make sure you rinse the cleaning solution off first.

Proper cleaning maintains your implant-retained dentures for many years. Improper care of your dentures and implants can cause gum inflammation, per-implantitis (inflammation and bone loss around the implants), and loose or ill-fitting dentures.

Overall, these are wonderful options afforded by modern and advanced dentistry!