What are Implant Supported Dentures?

Implant Supported Dentures

An implant-supported denture is a type of overdenture which is supported by and connected to implants. In comparison, regular dentures rest on the gums and are not supported by implants.

An implant-supported denture is commonly used for patients who do not have any teeth in the jaw, but have sufficient bone in their jaw to support the implants. An implant-supported denture contains special attachments that connect to attachments located on the implants.

Implant-supported dentures are often used for the lower jaw as regular dentures can be less stable. A traditional denture used for the upper jaw is often stable enough on its own and doesn't require the additional support provided by implants. Patients are able to receive implant-supported dentures in both the upper and/or lower jaw.

Implant-supported dentures should be removed daily for cleaning of the denture and surrounding gum area. Similar to regular dentures, you should not go to bed wearing implant-supported dentures. Some people prefer a fixed or permanent crown and bridgework which isn’t removable. Your dentist will evaluate your oral health, lifestyle needs and preferences when determining your options.

There are two different types of implant-supported dentures: bar-retained and ball-retained. For both types, the denture is made from an acrylic base that has a gum-like appearance. Porcelain or acrylic teeth that look natural are then attached to the acrylic base. Both types of dentures require at least two implants for adequate support.

• Bar-retained dentures: A thin metal bar which follows your jaw’s curve is connected to anywhere from two to five implants. The implants are then surgically placed in your jawbone. Clips, or other attachments, are then fitted to the bar, the denture or both. The denture fits over the bar and securely clips into place by the attachments.
• Ball-retained dentures: Each implant in the jawbone holds a metal attachment that matches with an attachment on the denture. In most cases, the attachments on the implants are ball-shaped and fit into sockets on the denture.

The Implant Process

The implants are usually placed in the jawbone towards the front of your mouth. There is usually more bone mass in the front of the jaw compared to the back. This is true even in circumstances where the teeth have been missing for quite some time. Once you lose your teeth, you begin to lose bone mass in the underlying area. Additionally, the front jaw doesn't have as many nerves or structures which are likely to interfere with the implant placement.

The time frame for implant completion depends on a variety of factors. The quickest estimate is approximately five months for a lower jaw implant or seven months for upper jaw implants. These estimate include any surgery required and the denture placement. It is possible for the process to last a year or more. This is especially true if bone grafting or other preliminary procedures are required.

Two surgeries usually are required. The first surgery places the implants under your gums in the jawbone. The second surgery exposes the tops of the implants where the denture is then attached. The second procedure usually takes place three to six months following the first surgery.

Some dentists have started using a one-stage procedure. In this process, the dentist places the implants and the supporting bar in one step. The procedure also has a high success rate.