Implant supported dentures are different from regular dentures in that they are held in place by dental implants. Whereas regular dentures rest on your gums, dentures supported by implants are fused with the jaw bone for added stability. Although implant supported dentures can be placed in either the upper or lower jaw, they are most commonly placed in the lower because of the higher need for stability. With this type of denture, you can snap the dentures in and out of place at will. There is no need for paste or adhesives to hold them in place.
There are two types of implant supported dentures:
Bar-Retained Dentures – These implant supported dentures require that a minimum of three implants be put in place. A metal bar is then attached to the implants and run along the gum line. The dentures are attached to the metal bar using clips or other attachments. These implant supported dentures relieve much of the discomfort and rubbing of regular dentures.
Ball-Retained Dentures – These implant supported dentures use a ball and socket design to attach dentures to the implants. The denture is fitted with a socket to match a ball on top of the implants. These implant supported dentures are the most secure.
Before implants can be put in place, an initial exam must be performed to determine which type of implant supported dentures work best for you. Dr. Lara Tull-Ryan will need to take x rays and create impressions of your teeth. If you do not already have a full denture, a temporary denture will be made for you.
During the initial surgery, dental implants will be surgically placed within your jawbone. You will then need to wait 3 to 6 months while the implants become naturally fused with the jawbone. During the second visit, a healing cap will be placed on top of each implant. Healing for this portion only takes two weeks. During the third stage, healing caps are replaced with abutments which will later be attached to a crown or ball-socket. During the final visit, you will try on your new implant supported dentures to be sure they fit properly.
Dentures supported by implants are more comfortable and provide a number of health benefits over traditional dentures. Because they are planted in the jawbone, implant supported dentures stimulate the bone to prevent deterioration.
