Implant Retained Dentures
Implant Retained Dentures Overview
When you hear the word dentures you automatically picture sets of false teeth in a glass of water left overnight. Those days are long gone thanks to modern dentistry and dental implants. Nobody needs to be troubled or embarrassed by loose or unstable dentures. Implant-retained dentures are one of the latest advancements in Implantology. A lower or upper denture can simply be anchored by dental implants nowadays, providing unrivalled structural support and confidence.
What is the difference?
Regular dentures are held in place by the natural suction of the gums or clasps on the teeth, whereas implant-retained dentures are supported by the permanent fixture of dental implants. This has a range of benefits for the patient, and it can be used to support both partial and complete dentures.
The procedure
- Dental implants are placed by making an incision in the gum (the gum is numbed first), lifting the tissue and drilling sockets into the jawbone (there are no pain nerves in the bone!).
- The implants are then placed in the holes, and the gum is stitched and left to heal.
- Once the implants have integrated, the dentures can be attached, and you can start enjoying your new smile.
- If you already have implants in support of single crowns, a denture can be made to accommodate the existing teeth.
The procedure to place implants is carried out under local anaesthetic to ensure it is pain-free. If you are nervous about having treatment or have a phobia of injections, please do not hesitate to talk to the dentist prior to the procedure as oral or intra-venous sedation can be offered.
Implant Retained Dentures
What are the advantages of implant-retained dentures?
The combination of dentures and implants helps to address many of the problems associated with wearing dentures. The benefits include:
Peace of mind – one of the most common concerns is dentures coming loose, but patients with implant-retained dentures can be rest assured this will not be a problem. The dentures will be held firmly in place.
Improved function – the increased support also helps to improve the function of the dentures. Patients can eat what they want without fear of denture breakage and there is no adverse effect on speech.
Aesthetics – implant-retained dentures are designed to look as lifelike as possible and modern designs look very similar to natural teeth.
Simplicity – once the implants and dentures have been placed, maintenance is relatively straightforward and denture adhesive is no longer necessary.
Decreased bone loss – dental implants can help to reduce bone loss, which becomes increasingly likely as you get older.
Am I suitable for implant-retained dentures?
If you have missing teeth and would like to enjoy the best possible aesthetics and function, implant-retained dentures may be an ideal solution. They are generally recommended for people who have good oral health and are non-smokers. Your dentist will be able to advise if you are an appropriate candidate or recommend a suitable alternative.
FAQs
It depends on which jaw and the condition of your bone, but a lower denture can often be held securely by just two implants, while an upper denture usually needs four or more because the bone there is softer. The denture then clips onto small attachments fixed to the implants. At your consultation we take a 3D scan to check your bone and work out the right number for a stable, comfortable fit.
They're designed to come out, which surprises a lot of people. Unlike a fixed set of implant teeth, an implant-retained denture clips firmly onto the implants while you wear it, then unclips so you can take it out to clean and, if you prefer, overnight. You get the security of implants through the day with the easy cleaning of a denture. If you'd rather have teeth that never come out, fixed full-arch implants are the alternative, and we're happy to talk you through both.
In some cases an existing denture can be adapted to clip onto implants, as long as it's in good condition and fits well. Often, though, a new denture made specifically to work with the attachments gives a better and longer-lasting result. We'll assess your current denture at your consultation and give you an honest recommendation rather than steer you towards a new one you don't need.
Cleaning is simple once you're into the routine. You take the denture out and clean it much like an ordinary denture, then clean around the small attachments on the implants in your mouth, since plaque and food can gather there. A soft brush does the job, and your hygienist will show you the best technique. The clip-in parts wear gently over time and are quick to swap at a routine visit, so the denture keeps its firm fit.
Both are excellent ways to replace a full arch of teeth, and the right one comes down to what matters most to you. Implant-retained dentures clip in and out, tend to need fewer implants, and are easy to keep clean, which often makes them more affordable to maintain. Fixed full-arch implants stay in permanently and feel closest to natural teeth, but usually need more implants. We'll go through the pros and cons of each at your consultation so you can decide with confidence.
Get in touch today
If you would like to replace several missing teeth, call us on 0115 981 6986 or book a consultation at Nottingham Implants and find out whether you are suitable for implant retained dentures.
