Implant-Retained Dentures

If you think dental implants can only be used when replacing one or a few missing teeth, you’ll be happy to know that’s not the case. Implant-retained dentures are a great alternative to traditional dentures. Working the same way as a regular dental implant, you won’t have to worry about accidental slippage or messy adhesives to keep your denture in place. Our doctors and his team at The Smilist Dental Medford use state-of-the-art implants to give you a seamless smile! If you’re ready to restore the confidence you once lost because of your missing teeth, call us to schedule a consultation today!

How Do Implant-Retained Dentures Work?

Depending on the number of teeth you need to replace, the first phase of the procedure can take several hours. One of our highly trained dentists will take the implants, which are made of titanium, and surgically place them within your jaw. This is done by making an incision in the gum line and drilling a small hole in the jaw to place the implant. It may not be necessary to put an implant in each vacated socket, but it will be up to the dentist to determine how many implants are needed to support the denture.

Once the implants are in place, it will require that you spend the next 3 to 6 months healing. Osseointegration, which is a process where the implant fuses to the bone, must occur in order for placement to be successful. Once our dentists feel comfortable that the healing process is complete, you’ll return for the second phase of the procedure, which is placing the customized denture.

Am I a Candidate for Implant-Retained Dentures?

Individuals who possess enough bone density are considered good candidates for dental implants. Once our dentists review your medical and dental history, if it is determined you don’t have enough bone to support an implant-retained denture, not all hope is lost. We offer advanced dental implant services such as bone grafting or a sinus lift to help with creating more bone support for implants.

The Implant-Retained Dentures Procedure

It will require a level of patience on your behalf, simply because the process takes several months to complete. During your consultation with one of our dentists, they will evaluate your oral health to determine if you are a qualified candidate. Then, they’ll create a personalized treatment plan, discuss the procedure, and provide you with the estimated cost.

Once you have been given the green light to move forward with the procedure, a dentist will administer anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable before making a small incision in your gum line to place the implants. Once in place, you’ll return home to heal for several months before returning to our office and having your denture placed. The implants require ample time to fuse correctly because of the strong foundation needed to hold up your denture.

Benefits of Combining Dentures & Dental Implants

• Your facial appearance will improve. Missing teeth can cause facial collapse if not replaced in a timely manner. Implant-retained dentures keep your face from sagging.
• You’ll have improved oral health. Your jawbone can quickly deteriorate if there is nothing to keep it stimulated. Implants act like a tooth root, so it gives your bone the stimulation needed to stay strong.
• You’ll experience increased stability. Forget worrying about accidental slippage. Implant-retained dentures stay in place and act like regular teeth!
• They’ll give you increased confidence in your ability to chew, eat and speak clearly.