If you’re missing teeth, you may find it harder to chew food or speak. Over time, the surrounding teeth may shift and occupy the space.
Dentures offer a solution, but they can pose speaking and eating challenges to users. If you're looking for a more secure and comfortable oral appliance, implant-retained dentures can help. We’re pleased to provide them to the Lethbridge community, here at Cool Dental.
What are implant-retained dentures?
Implant-retained dentures can be used to replace missing teeth on either the upper or lower jaw, or both. Traditional dentures rest above the gums and are secured by adhesive. Implant-retained dentures, on the other hand, are held in place by dental implants.
The denture is snapped to the jaw instead of extending across the roof of the mouth. Usually, 2 to 4 implants are used for each jaw. They’re attached where the bone is thicker for a stronger hold. The number of implants required varies. You may need fewer or more, depending on your treatment goals, lifestyle, and budget.
But, in general, implant-retained dentures require fewer implants, making them more affordable than implant-supported dentures. They can be worth considering if you don’t mind removing your oral appliance at night.
Types of implant-retained dentures
The two types of removable implant-retained dentures are ball-attached and bar-retained. Both will need at least two implants to work.
- Ball-attached dentures. Ball-attached implants, or locator attachment dentures, feature small smooth metal connectors on top of the implants that come through your gums like your teeth once did. The underside of the dentures are then affixed with small rubber suction cups that easily lock onto the dental implant attachments securing them in place for your ease and comfort.
- Bar-retained dentures. Bar retained dentures use a custom metal bar that runs across the implants. They’re ideal for securing a full set of dentures. The denture is fitted over the bar and secured in place with retention clips.
How do implant-retained dentures work?
Here are the steps involved in getting implant-retained dentures.
- Initial consultation. During the initial consultation, your dentist evaluates the bone quality and quantity. There must be an adequate amount of bone to support the implants. X-rays and impressions of your teeth and gums are necessary to identify the best position for the implants. A three dimensional CT scan of the jawbone is needed to plan out your implant placement.
- First appointment. Getting dental implants is a surgical procedure. You can be asleep for this procedure if you prefer. A small incision is made in your gums, the implant is placed in the jawbone, and the site is stitched up after. A temporary denture is carefully affixed to avoid putting pressure on the implants. Then, the area is allowed to heal so the implant can fuse to the bone. The process can take up to 6 months.
- Second appointment. Before continuing, your dentist verifies if the integration is successful by taking an x-ray. Then they make a small opening in the gum tissue to access the top of the implant. Healing collars are placed to separate the gum from the implants. This is left in place for 2 weeks and then replaced with the abutments. After that, your dentures will be created.
- Fitting and adjustment. The connectors are placed on the abutment, and denture mock-ups are used to see if you’re happy with the position and fit. Then your impression is forwarded to the laboratory for your final dentures.
- Bone integration and healing. After around 6 months, the bone and implants will have fused and be ready to serve as the foundation for your dentures. The final step is inserting the denture using a ball or bar appliance.
Dr. Lachman routinely works with local denturists. who will fabricate the dentures and attach them to the implants once healed. The implants will be placed by Dr. Lachman, and the denturist will place the dentures. This relationship can save the patient considerable money.
Benefits of implant-retained dentures
Implant retained dentures offer greater stability than conventional dentures. They’re less likely to slip or move out of place. They can be held in place using mini-implants, which eliminate the need for bone grafts. They also help improve chewing and biting force.
Am I a good candidate for implant-retained dentures?
Several factors need to be considered to determine which type of denture or implant is right for you. Your bone health, oral health, diet, lifestyle, and budget all come into play.
Learn more about implant-retained dentures in Southern Alberta
Implant-retained dentures may be ideal if you want a removable but sturdier tooth replacement choice. They don’t 100% replicate the natural teeth, but they function like them and last for many years too.
This oral health investment can bring back your confident smile and improve your quality of life. Contact us today if you need more information about getting implant-retained dentures. Or even better, book your initial consultation with our dentist.
We’re happy to answer your questions about improving your oral health.
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