Implant-Supported Dentures

When Dentures Meet Implants

If you’re tired of dealing with the hassle of traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures may be just what you need to restore your smile and regain your confidence. At Pearland Dental Group, our team of experienced Pearland implant dentists is dedicated to helping you achieve the lasting, healthy smile of your dreams. Keep reading to learn how implant-supported dentures may help you meet your unique dental needs.

What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?

Implant-supported dentures, also called implant-retained dentures, are a type of dental prosthesis that combines traditional full and partial dentures with dental implants. Dental implants are titanium posts surgically inserted into your jawbone to act as replacement tooth roots. Once the implants have fused with your jawbone, they can support a variety of dental prostheses, including dentures.

The Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures offer a variety of benefits over traditional dentures. Here are just a few of the reasons why you may want to consider implant-supported dentures:

Improved Comfort: Because implant-retained dentures are secured in place by dental implants, they won’t slip or shift around in your mouth as traditional dentures can. This can help improve your comfort and make it easier to eat and speak.
Improved Confidence: Implant-retained dentures are designed to look and feel like natural teeth, which can help improve your confidence and self-esteem.
Improved Oral Health: Dental implants help preserve the integrity of your jawbone, which prevents bone loss and other oral health issues.
Fast and Affordable: Implant-retained dentures use a minimal number of implants and in some cases can use your existing denture restorations, saving you time and money.

The Different Types of Implant-Supported Dentures

There are three main types of implant-supported dentures: ball attachment, bar attachment, and screw-retained. Each type has its own unique benefits, and our team can help you determine which type is right for you based on your specific needs.

Ball Attachment

Ball attachment or O-ring dentures use a ball and socket mechanism to attach the denture to the implant. The ball on the implant fits into a socket on the denture, allowing for a secure fit. Ball attachment implant-supported dentures can be removed for easy cleaning.

Bar Attachment

Bar attachment or bar-retained dentures use a thin metal bar that is attached to the implants to support the denture. The denture is then clipped onto the bar, providing a stable and secure fit while still allowing them to be removed. Bar attachment dentures are especially useful for those who have lost a substantial amount of jawbone density, as they provide additional support.

Screw-Retained

Screw-retained or fixed dentures are attached to the implants using screws placed into the implant. These are the most stable implant denture option, as they can’t be removed without professional help. Much like bar-retained dentures, this type of denture is often used in cases where a patient has minimal bone density and requires additional support.

The Implant-Supported Dentures Process

If you’re interested in implant-retained dentures, our Pearland dental team can guide you through the entire process. Here’s what you can usually expect:

Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation, your Pearland implant dentist will examine your mouth and jaw to determine if you’re a good candidate for implant-supported dentures. They’ll also discuss your treatment options and answer any questions you may have.

Designing Your Implants

Once you’ve been approved for implant-supported dentures, we’ll take images and impressions of your mouth to help design your implants. Depending on the state of your dentures, we may be able to use them as the restorations for your implants.

Preparation

Before your implants can be placed, certain teeth may need to be extracted. You may also need to undergo supplemental procedures such as gum grafting or bone grafting if you’ve lost jawbone density or gum tissue mass.

Installing Your Implant-Supported Dentures

Your Pearland implant dentist will make incisions in your gum tissue to access the jawbone. Once the implants have been placed, they’ll fuse to your jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This process takes anywhere from three to seven months.

After you’re healed, your denture will be attached to the implants using one of the three attachment methods. Once your dentures are in place, you can begin enjoying your fully restored smile.

Caring for Your Implant-Supported Dentures

To get the most out of your implant-retained dentures, follow any and all instructions given to you by your implant dentist. Common guidelines for caring for your implant-supported dentures include the following:

Clean Your Dentures After Every Meal: Food particles can get trapped in your dentures, leading to bad breath and gum disease. Make sure to clean your dentures thoroughly after each meal to prevent this.
Use a Soft-Bristled Brush: To avoid damaging your dentures, use a soft-bristled brush to clean them. Avoid using abrasive materials or toothpaste, as this can scratch the surface of your dentures.
Soak Your Dentures Overnight: If your dentures are removable, soaking your dentures in water or a cleaning solution overnight can help remove any bacteria or debris that may have accumulated during the day.
Handle Your Dentures With Care: When you’re cleaning or inserting your dentures, make sure to handle them with care. Dropping or mishandling them can cause damage and require costly repairs. If your implant-supported dentures are fixed, wear a mouthguard as needed to protect them.
Avoid Using Denture Adhesives: Implant-supported dentures are designed to be secure and typically don’t require adhesives. Using adhesives can cause damage to your dentures or implants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone get implant-supported dentures?

Most people in good oral and overall health are candidates for implant-supported dentures. However, certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, may make the procedure less successful. Our team can evaluate your individual needs and determine if implant-supported dentures are right for you.

How long do implant-supported dentures last?

With proper care, implant-supported dentures can last for many years or even a lifetime. However, the arch restoration will likely need to be replaced every ten years due to normal wear and tear. Be sure to practice proper oral hygiene and keep up with your dental exams to maintain your restoration and your implants.

Is the implant-supported dentures process painful?

Our team takes great care to ensure the implant-supported denture process is as comfortable as possible. We use local anesthesia to numb the area during the procedure, and most patients experience little to no pain during the recovery period.

How long does the implant-supported denture process take?

The length of the implant-supported denture process can vary depending on your specific needs and treatment plan. However, the process typically takes several months to complete. Your implant dentist will give you a more accurate breakdown of time during your initial consultation.

Call Us for Your Custom Implant-Supported Dentures!

If you’re in Pearland or the surrounding areas, including Fresno, Houston, Alvin, or League City, TX, and you’re interested in implant-supported dentures, Pearland Dental Group is here to help. Our team of experienced implant dentists will guide you through the entire process and help you achieve the long-lasting and healthy smile of your dreams. Schedule your consultation at our Pearland dental office. Call us at (281) 993-9900 or schedule your consultation by clicking the button below and we’ll get back to you shortly.