Implant-supported dentures in Clinton, Maryland

How Does an Implant-supported Denture Differ from a Traditional Denture?

Traditional dentures have a hard acrylic base that rests on your gums. Implant dentures are connected to implants inserted into the jaw, which have an abutment on top to hold the denture firmly in place. When you chew food, the implant acts as your lost tooth root, so chewing feels far more natural. You’ll be able to eat most of the foods you had to avoid with traditional dentures. Implant dentures are sometimes called snap-on dentures, since you snap them on and off.

What Is Getting an Implant-supported Denture Like?

There are two types of implant-supported dentures; bar-retained dentures and ball-retained. Bar-retained dentures use a metal bar under the acrylic base that is supported by several implants. The denture clips to the bar. Ball-retained dentures rely on implants with a ball on top of them. The denture has sockets to snap on to the tops of the implants. These dentures are sometimes called snap-on dentures, since you snap them on and off.

You need a certain amount of jawbone to support implants. If you’ve been missing teeth for a long time, your jawbone may have deteriorated. This isn’t necessarily a problem, as your dentist can do a bone graft, or use artificial bone, to build up the area where the implants will be placed. However, this will add extra time to your procedure. Once the implants are placed, the bone grows around the implant, creating a stable base. Once this occurs, your dentist will place a bar or ball on the implants. In the meantime, a dental lab will be make your custom denture, designed to fit perfectly and look natural. Please call us for a consultation, and then you can learn more about the procedure.

How Much Will Implant-supported Dentures Cost?

The cost of denture implants varies among our patients. Factors that affect what you’ll pay include the type of implant selected and whether you need any preliminary work, such as an extraction or a bone graft to support the implant. If you have dental insurance, it may cover part of the cost. We’re committed to providing affordable, quality implant-supported dentures, so as many people as possible can enjoy the benefits they offer.

What Are the Advantages of Implant-supported Dentures?

Implant-supported dentures have numerous advantages, including:

1. The denture is stable and will not move. Many people who wear traditional dentures have trouble with the denture for the lower jaw moving. Dentures supported by implants are especially popular for lower jaws.
2. The implants help prevent bone atrophy. When this occurs, your face can get that sunken look that ages you. The implant acts like a tooth root, keeping the bone stimulated.
3. You never have to buy denture adhesive again. You'll also never have to worry about finding the best adhesive, so your teeth won't slip.
4. Chewing feels more natural, and is more comfortable, because the implant absorbs the force of biting, not your gums.
5. Dentures resting on implants don't cause sore spots on the gum. You won't hesitate to wear them every day.
6. You'll smile more, and appear friendlier, when you know your denture is stable.

The only disadvantages are the cost and the surgery. A denture supported by an implant will cost more than a traditional denture, but most our of patients feel the extra cost is well worth it. The only other disadvantage is that surgery is required to place the implants. Some people worry about this, but the surgery is minor and our dentist will ensure that you don't feel pain.

How Do I Care for My Implant-supported Dentures?

Practicing good oral hygiene is the best way to keep your implant-supported dentures in great shape. Your dentist will explain how to keep your teeth sparkling and your gums healthy. You shouldn't sleep with your dentures in. This gives you a chance to clean the area and let your gums rest. The attachments, like the bar or ball, usually need replacing every six to 12 months. Keep up with your regular exams, so your dentist can check them.

Where Do I Find Implant-supported Dentures in Clinton?

Our dentists offer affordable, quality implant-supported dentures. If you would like a stable denture that has many advantages over a traditional denture, please call us. We can arrange a consultation for you, so you can learn if this would be a good solution for your missing teeth. We love seeing patients get their smile and self-confidence back.