Implant-supported dentures are a popular and affordable way to restore your smile, short of getting dental implants and new crowns. This advanced solution is suitable for those upgrading from traditional dentures or restoring a set of missing teeth for the first time. Implant dentures are also frequently used for full-mouth restoration.
What Is an Implant Supported-Denture?
Implant-supported dentures are a type of denture used to replace several missing teeth at once. Unlike traditional dentures secured to the gum using adhesives, the denture is held in place by dental implants.
A dental implant is a tiny screw-like oral device that functions as an artificial tooth root. It is surgically fitted into the jawbone as a permanent replacement for the missing tooth root. About 2–6 implants are typically used to form the supporting structure for the denture. Dentures supported by implants can also be fixed or removable, depending on your needs.
Types of Implant-Supported Dentures
Below are three main types of dentures fixed to implants:
Overdenture Implant
Implant-supported overdentures are removable prosthetic teeth. They are suitable mainly for patients who cannot receive a fixed implant denture or complete denture.
The denture is first customized to suit the patient’s needs. The dentist will then snap it into place over two or more implants. Several attachments on the implant, called abutments, help keep the overdenture in place. These connectors promote greater stability when chewing and easier removal of the appliance for cleaning.
Implant Partial Denture
An implant-supported partial denture, also called an implant partial denture, is a removable appliance supported by artificial tooth roots. Securing the dentures on implants provides more stability and comfort than traditional partials attached to nearby teeth using metal clasps.
Partial dentures can be fixed or removable. In this case, the implant-supported partial denture can be removed for daily cleaning and maintenance. This option is more stable and aesthetically pleasing than conventional removable partial dentures.
Implant Fixed Denture
A fixed denture forms a permanent attachment to the dental implants surgically placed into the jawbone. About 2–6 implants are used as the base and can withstand the full bite force. Unlike with the overdenture implant and implant partial denture, you cannot remove them for cleaning. However, your dentist can remove the appliance when required for cleaning and maintenance.
A trendy example of an implant fixed denture is the All-on-4®. With this method, the dentist uses only four implants to replace an entire arch of missing teeth.
Steps for Placing Implant-Supported Dentures
After a full evaluation to decide if you are a suitable candidate, your dental professional will take x-rays and impressions of your teeth and gum. The actual process involves surgically placing the dental implants into the jawbone. Once the gum heals, the dentist will attach metal devices called abutments to the implants. These work to keep the denture stable. After customizing your denture, the dentist will connect it over the artificial tooth roots.
At Las Cruces Dental, we use cutting-edge technology and procedures to achieve the best results for our patients.
Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant dentures offer longer-lasting results compared to traditional dentures. Other noteworthy benefits include:
- Teeth that look, function, and feel more natural
- Increased ability to bite and chew solid foods
- Improved denture stability and speech
- Protection of the mouth structure by preserving the jawbone
- A smile that is more aesthetically pleasing
Cost of Dentures Supported by Implants
This restorative dentistry option represents an upgrade from conventional dentures and is more affordable than dental implants fitted with replacement crowns. It is a safe, effective, and long-term way to restore oral functionality and esthetics. That being said, cost can sometimes become the ultimate deciding factor.
Cost depends on the type of implant denture and insurance coverage. The total sum includes the cost of manufacturing the prosthetic teeth and each implant. Upper dentures usually require more implants than lower dentures. The average cost per implant can range from upwards of $1,000.
Dentures on implants can be a worthwhile investment and can last many years with good oral care. Our friendly staff can discuss our affordable payment plans if needed.
Restore Your Smile at Las Cruces Dental Solutions
Getting implant-supported dentures has never been easier. Here, we bring together decades of experience, modern technology and techniques, and a compassionate team to help restore your smile to it’s fullest potential. Call us today to schedule your first visit, or request an appointment online.
