Precision Periodontics

How Long Do Implant Supported Dentures Last?

Implant Supported Dentures

Our natural teeth play a critical role in our daily life. Unfortunately, nearly 40 million people in the United States do not have any of their own teeth. When you lose all the teeth it’s important to do something about it in order to maintain a normal life. Modern dentistry works to prevent tooth loss, but there are also numerous solutions for those who have lost a tooth.

Dentures are the most common solution when someone is missing most or all of their teeth. They are an affordable and practical solution for many people. The challenge with dentures is that they rest on the gums and can come loose and be uncomfortable. Additionally, the gum shape changes over time which impacts how well the dentures fit against the gum. This can result in insecurities and other challenges. Implant supported dentures have become a common solution as they help alleviates many of the challenges associated with traditional dentures.

Denture Implants

Denture implants are man-made screws, often made of titanium, which are implanted into the jaw bone. The screw acts a secure attachment for a denture. Two to six implants are typically required for attaching a denture.

Denture Implants & Traditional Dentures

Traditional dentures attach or suction to the gums. In most cases, there is one piece which contains the false teeth for each jaw. In dental implants, the implant holds the denture in place and there are technically two parts. The first part are the surgically placed implants which are placed in the jaw bone that attach to the denture piece itself.

Denture Implant Benefits

There are a variety of advantages of implants for dentures. Many of these benefits address the disadvantages associated with traditional dentures.

  • Security and retention: dentures are held in place by implants and cannot move unless a dentist is involved.
  • Jaw bone preservation: implants help preserve the jaw bone which prevents bone loss.
  • Smaller and more natural: because the dentures are secured to the implant, the denture can be smaller and more comfortable inside the mouth.
  • Comfort: denture implants remain in place and are attached to the jaw. This allows for normal chewing and a strong bite.

Denture Implant Challenges

While there are many advantages to denture implants, there are a few drawbacks which can include:

  • Surgery: surgery is required for placing the implants. Anesthesia is used to ensure there is no pain during the placement and the recovery time is relatively short.
  • Cost: denture implants cost significantly more compared to traditional dentures.

What is the procedure for denture implants?

The dental implant procedure typically consists of four steps. The duration of the procedure from start to finish varies drastically from person to person.

  1. Consultation and preparation
  2. Placing the implants
  3. Fitting the abutment
  4. Fitting the denture

Security and Retention

Dentures which are held in place by implants cannot move, unless active steps are taken to adjust them. For patients with healthy gums and good oral hygiene, the implant supported dentures can last 20 years or more.

Implant Supported Dentures Locations

  • Implant Supported Dentures Washington DC
  • Implant Supported Dentures Alexandria

More on Implant Supported Dentures

  • How Long Do Implant Supported Dentures Last?
  • What are Implant Supported Dentures?
  • Implant Supported vs Conventional Dentures
  • Cleaning Implant Supported Dentures
  • How Much Do Implant Supported Dentures Cost?

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Longevity depends on more than the implant hardware alone. The implants, the attachment system, the denture teeth, and the patient’s maintenance habits all affect how long the restoration performs well before parts need repair or replacement. Patients sometimes hear a single number and assume the entire system has one lifespan, but in reality the supporting implants and the prosthetic components may age differently.

Routine maintenance helps extend that lifespan. Professional cleanings, bite checks, replacement of worn attachment parts when needed, and prompt attention to looseness or sore spots can prevent small problems from becoming major failures. That is especially important for patients who want implant-supported dentures to remain comfortable and functional over many years.

Learn more about Implant Supported Dentures

What are Implant Supported Dentures?

Dentures vs Implants