Denture Implants

The Long-Term Denture Alternative

No More Loose Dentures

Dentures replace the role of missing teeth and are used to make the smile look complete after multiple tooth loss. They are designed to sit on top of the gums but as they are not securely attached, they tend to loosen over time. The deterioration of the tight fit results in a host of functional and aesthetic problems, which are all directly related to progressive jawbone deterioration related to long-term tooth loss. The benefits of dentures can be maximised even more if they are secured in place with the help of dental implants.

What are Denture Implants?

Implant retained dentures or overdentures are artificial teeth that are held firmly in place by dental implants. Instead of just sitting on top of the gums where they can accidentally lose their secure position, implant retained dentures are locked into place by dental implants. As they are attached to the jawbone through the implants, the dentures do not unintentionally slip inside the mouth. They stay in place just like natural teeth, making it easier to eat and speak normally without encountering the problems associated with removable dentures.

Dentures that are used to replace an entire arch of missing teeth are secured in place by 2 to 4 dental implants. The implants are placed in strategic points of the jaw to take advantage of the existing bone structure.

Types of Denture Implants

Ball-retained – In this option, dental implants are equipped with ball-like components that perfectly fit into the dentures. This results in the dentures being locked in a secure position so they will not move uncontrollably unless the patient removes them voluntarily for cleaning and other purposes.

Bar-retained – This type of implant-retained denture includes a thin metal bar that is designed to run across the dental implants. The bar is designed to follow the curve of the jawline to keep the dentures in place, preventing them from moving involuntarily while speaking or chewing food.

Who Will Benefit from Implant Retained Dentures

Patients who suffer from painful denture use – People who have been using removable dentures for years may eventually experience discomfort, especially when the artificial teeth become significantly ill-fitting. As the dentures move inside the mouth, they will rub painfully against the gums and can pinch the tongue and inner cheeks, causing sore spots to develop. Implant supported dentures are secured in place, so they will not move unnecessarily and cause pain inside the mouth.
Those who want better or normal-looking teeth replacements – When removable dentures become loose (because of jawbone thinning) over time, they also lose their normal-looking fit. Loose dentures can make the mouth area look unnaturally hollow; they will look even more unsightly when they move while speaking. Dentures that are anchored by implants look more like natural teeth and can help stop further bone deterioration, preventing the mouth from having an unattractively shrunken look.
People who want secure dentures that can still be removed voluntarily – Implant retained dentures are anchored in a firm position, but they can be removed as needed. Unlike a fixed dental bridge that is permanently held in place, implant supported overdentures can easily be taken out when required. This removable nature makes it easier to maintain good oral health as the teeth replacement can be cleaned thoroughly, and food debris can be removed completely from the space in between the gums and dentures.

Advantages of
Denture Implants

- Comfortable Use
Implant retained dentures sit securely over the gums as they are held in place by dental implants. As they are not prone to slipping from their proper position, they do not cause uncomfortable issues – such as rubbing against the gums or pinching the inner cheeks – that are associated with removable dentures.
- Improved Appearance
Dentures that are supported by dentures are designed to look just like normal, healthy teeth. They will not move uncontrollably, so there are no worries that the smile will literally slip while laughing, speaking, or chewing. The implants that hold the dentures in place also help with maintaining a healthy appearance by preventing the shrivelled mouth appearance that is caused by jawbone deterioration.
- Normal Speech
Implant supported dentures make it easier to speak normally because they are anchored securely in the mouth. They solve the lisping problem that may come from being toothless or from using ill-fitting dentures. It will also be easier to speak in a normal manner if there is no threat of the artificial teeth suddenly falling out of the mouth.
- Easier Eating/Chewing
Eating is made easier with the help of implant retained dentures that stay firmly in place regardless of how vigorously the wearer chews on the food. Removable dentures may slip out of their proper position when eating, resulting in painful pinching on the tongue, inner cheek, or inner lip. Implant retained dentures that do not move make mealtimes more enjoyable and a lot easier to manage.
- No Embarrassment
Dentures that move are a significant source of embarrassment, especially when the artificial teeth suddenly move while the mouth is open – such as when speaking or laughing – and with other people around to witness the unfortunate incident. When dentures are attached to the jawbone through dental implants, they are not prone to unwanted movements, so they can do their proper function without causing embarrassing episodes.
- Prevents or Stops the Progression of Bone Deterioration
The dental implants that are used to anchor the dentures to the jawbone can help prevent further bone deterioration. These implants provide the stimulation that the bone tissues need to maintain a healthy structure. With the much-needed stimulation from the artificial tooth roots, the jawbone can avoid further deterioration after tooth loss.