What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?

Patients who are missing a significant number of teeth have a number of options available to restore their mouth to its original form and function. Dentures are one option and come in multiple forms; here, we will be discussing implant-supported dentures in richmond virginia.

What is an implant-supported denture?

An implant-supported denture is a denture that is held in place by dental implants! An oral surgeon or periodontist places one or multiple titanium dental implants into the jawbone and a dentist secures a denture onto the implants. Implant-supported dentures are significantly more stable and secure for patients than traditional dentures that are held in place by adhesion and retention. They cannot be removed by the patient for cleaning or sleeping like other dentures. Patients also find that this type of denture is easier to get used to than traditional dentures.

Not everyone is a candidate for implant-supported dentures. Patients must be overall healthy, have substantial bone structure and density, and be able to endure implant placement surgery and the six months of healing time. Patients who do not meet these requirements may be best suited to traditional dentures.

Implant-Supported Partial Denture

A partial denture replaces a few missing teeth in one area of the mouth. Traditional partial dentures are held in place using acrylic or metal clasps that attach to neighboring healthy teeth and allow the patient to remove the partial for cleaning and sleeping. If there are healthy teeth on either side of the open space, the partial can also be cemented into place using dental crowns on the healthy teeth. A partial denture can also be placed using implants. Depending on the number of teeth missing, 1 to 2 implants may be placed in the area to be restored and the partial denture secured onto the implants.

Implant-Supported Full Denture

A full denture is used to replace all of the teeth on one or both arches. A traditional full denture is held in place using adhesion and retention and can be removed by the patient for cleaning and sleeping. Implants can also be utilized for a full denture! For an implant-supported full denture, 4 to 6 implants are placed in one or both arches and the denture is screwed down onto the implants. An implant-supported full denture is also called an “All-on-four” or however many implants your case requires.

Denture Care and Maintenance

Taking care of your denture and visiting your dentist regularly will help ensure the integrity and longevity of your denture. If you have a removable denture, it is important to clean the denture thoroughly every night and to brush your gums to stimulate blood flow and remove any buildup and food particles.

Traditional dentures can last up to 10 years but may require an occasional adjustment. Implant-supported dentures can last up to 20 years but the implants themselves can last a lifetime.

If you think a denture is right for you, discuss your options with your dentist. They will help determine which type of denture will be best for your individual case and lifestyle.

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