WHAT ARE IMPLANT SUPPORTED DENTURES?
mobile Implant-supported dentures are a type of tooth replacement that allows for a denture or partial denture to be secured in place by surgically implanted posts. Traditional dentures rely on suction to remain in place on the gums which can cause more movement and less strength when chewing and talking. Implant-supported dentures offer patients more confidence and a more natural fit as compared to traditional dentures. Not everyone is a candidate for dental implants, so be sure to discuss all your options when reviewing teeth replacement with the dentist.
While you may not have enough teeth for a healthy smile, you may have enough jaw bone to support dental implants. The implant-supported dentures are most often used on the lower jaw as it is more difficult to get a comfortable, stable fit with traditional dentures. With the benefits and increased confidence from lower jaw implant supported dentures, why not use the same for the upper jaw? If the dentist determines your mouth is healthy enough, you may just walk out of the office in the near future smiling at your choice, showing everyone your complete, toothy grin.
Like traditional dentures, implant supported dentures need to be removed and cleaned every day as well as your gums. Neither dentures are meant to wear over night; if you prefer to have permanent tooth replacement, be sure to talk to the dentist about the crown and bridge options available to you.
Types of Implant Supported Dentures
Just like the dentist needs to determine the ideal number of implants for your mouth, the dentist will talk to you about the types of implants. Your dentures can be locked into place on the implant with either bar-retention or ball-retention. No matter the means of securing the dentures into place, the material for your dentures will not be affected.
Bar-retained dentures need between two and five implanted posts to secure the denture into place. The implants and possibly the dentures will be fitted with a bar and clips or a different kind of attachment. The clips keep the dentures in place while the dentures fit over the bar.
Ball-retained dentures are also known as stud-attachment dentures and they rely on two to five implanted posts as well. The posts are fitted with a male attachment, or a ball-like attachment and the dentures are fitted with female attachments, or socket-like attachments. The dentures are locked into place when the male attachment clicks into the female attachment.
What To Expect
If you are switching from traditional dentures to implant supported dentures, you will find less trouble speaking clearly and more confidence that the dentures will stay in place. While you will still need to be mindful of hard or very sticky foods, you will have more food choices than you had in the past with regular dentures or without teeth. Without having to rely on suction, the dentures themselves will be smaller allowing your mouth to feel more like it did when you had your natural teeth. And plan on sharing your smile with the world more often!
More on Implant Supported Dentures : How Long Do Implant Supported Dentures Last?