What Are Implant-Supported Dentures

What Are Implant-Supported Dentures By Dr. Abhi Singh | January 21, 2022

What Are Implant-Supported Dentures

Missing teeth can make you feel self-conscious. It does not only have an impact simply on your appearance but also on your chewing and speaking abilities. Fortunately, you can have implant-supported dentures that can replace your missing teeth and restore your beautiful smile.

However, it can be an intimidating process to hear about for the first time. If you’re curious about implant-supported dentures and want to know if you’re a good candidate to undergo the procedure, keep reading this blog post.

Implant-supported dentures are considered an excellent, lifelike solution for those who have lost all their teeth. This equipment can be used to replace teeth on both the top and bottom of the mouth and is designed to attach directly to strategically positioned dental implant posts.

An implant-supported denture is a type of overdenture that replaces a number of teeth at the same time with a single dental implant. Attachments are put underneath the denture to attach the implants to the rest of the teeth. When the denture is placed in the mouth, it snaps into place on the dental implants, which keeps it stable and secure.

Dentures that are supported by implants allow you to consume more foods than traditional dentures that are not supported by implants.

Strength, stability, and the ability to last for decades are just a few reasons why you would need implant-supported dentures. Depending on the style of a denture, implant-supported dentures can even last anywhere from five to eight years.

One of the important reasons why you need implant-supported dentures is that they can be used just like your natural teeth because they are fastened directly to the implant posts. For many patients, the food restriction that comes with loose dentures is very uncomfortable. Having loose dentures causes not only difficulty in eating but also has an impact on your speech. Fortunately, implant-supported dentures are secured in the jawbone by strategically placed implants. Therefore, these dentures are unlikely to slip or become loose since the implants keep them in place.

You must have the sufficient bone density for implant-supported dentures to be a good candidate. Your dentist may propose a bone graft to aid in support of your dental implants.

Also, before we offer the treatment, you must have healthy gum tissue and a good immune system. That’s why, in the initial consultation, your dentist will check all your medical conditions before the start of your dental treatment.

Almost every patient is familiar with the concept of conventional dentures. It is possible to remove these dentures and clean them outside of the mouth if necessary. Conventional dentures often require minor adjustments as the shape of the jaw changes over time to ensure that they are a proper fit.

On the other hand, implant-supported dentures are held in place by implants that are surgically implanted into the jawbone. They are typically not removed without the assistance of a dental professional in most cases. Here are some of the advantages of using implant-supported dentures over conventional dentures.

Materials of conventional dentures may shatter or deteriorate over time. When this occurs, they must be removed and replaced. Dentures that are supported by implants are more durable and require less maintenance.

In the long run, this saves money on denture creams, adhesives, replacements, and dental visits. Implants are more expensive upfront, but in the long run, they are more cost-effective than other options.

Implant-supported dentures are less difficult to keep clean. Patients should just continue to brush and floss as they normally would with their natural teeth. There is also no need for regular appointments for denture maintenance or correction.

On the other hand, patients who use conventional dentures must remove the denture from their mouths to clean them and soak them in a denture solution.

Since conventional dentures are not linked to the bone, the jawbone begins to degenerate very quickly as a result of the loss of stimulation that was previously provided by the missing teeth.

Along with increased stability, implant-supported dentures are also significantly stronger and do not rub against the gums. The implants have been implanted in the jawbone to prevent bone atrophy. Therefore, patients who have implant-supported dentures do not have to be concerned about their facial structure or smile changing because of the dentures.

Implant-supported dentures are more secure than traditional dentures and act more like real teeth. You won’t have to worry about losing them in a glass, and you won’t have to avoid specific foods or take them out to clean them.

On the contrary, conventional dentures are made to be taken out on a regular basis and require special maintenance. Also, sleeping with dentures is not recommended. As a result, after cleaning, you’ll need to store them on a shelf or in the bathroom, which can be a hassle, especially for older people.

Implant-supported and implant-retained dentures both rely on dental implants to stabilise dentures while chewing, allowing you to easily break down and eat more difficult-to-digest foods.

A practical difference between implant-supported dentures and implant-retained dentures is the quantity of bone that the patient has at their disposal. To be eligible for implant-supported dentures, the patient must have a sufficient amount of bone throughout the entire arch. Implant-supported dentures are full-mouth restorations that are held in place fully by dental implants. In other words, all of your biting forces are directed toward dental implants. Six to eight (or more) dental implants are necessary to completely support the denture in order for this to work.

On the contrary, implant-retained dentures require fewer dental implants to clip or snap into place for security. The gum tissue continues to provide some support for the denture. Because implant-retained dentures are detachable, they may be readily cleaned and reattached.

Understanding the steps involved in getting implant-supported dentures will help you know what to expect. The whole treatment normally necessitates at least two procedures and a minimum of five months. Here’s a quick rundown of the steps involved in implant-supported denture placement.

During your initial exam, the condition of your teeth will be assessed by your dentist. Models are generated by taking impressions via X-rays. A CT scan may also be ordered by your dentist to find your sinus cavities and nerves, as well as to determine how much bone is available.


A temporary denture will be built for you over the next few appointments. During the first surgery, the implants will be inserted into your jawbone. Your dentist will drill a hole in the exposed bone, put an implant, and cover the incision with stitches. For each implant, the procedure is repeated. You’ll have to wait three to six months before having the second operation to allow the implants to attach to your jawbone.

During the second operation, the tops of your implants are exposed. Once exposed, each head is fitted with a healing cap or collar to aid in healing. The collar must be worn for 10 to 14 days. Following that, the healing caps are replaced with ordinary abutments. Another impression will be taken by your dentist to aid in the creation of your denture framework.

For the last step, a metal bar is inserted between the abutments. Then, you will try on your denture framework with the guidance of your dentist. If everything is in position, your new teeth are firmly attached, and all attachments are added to keep the frame fixed to your implants.

Finally, your dentist will explain to you how to care for your new implant-supported dentures and will schedule follow-up consultations to evaluate your dental health.

Dentures become loose for a variety of reasons, the most frequent of which is bone resorption, which occurs when your gums begin to shrink because they are no longer utilised to hold your teeth in place. Another reason your dentures can get loose is normal wear and tear.

Fortunately, you can have implant-supported dentures that can be another reliable and long-lasting solution for replacing your loose dentures. Here are some advantages of why you should replace your loose dentures with implant-supported dentures.

Unlike loose dentures, implant-supported dentures are anchored directly to the jaw bone, just like real teeth. This implies nothing can stop you from eating your favourite foods! When your dentures are secured to dental implants, you can even eat hard, chewy, and crunchy foods.
Loose dentures frequently move out of position, making it difficult to talk correctly. Since implant-supported dentures cause excellent stability, it means that it also allows for total clarity in enunciation. Implant dentures stay firmly in place, allowing you to converse with friends, give a speech, or simply talk on the phone without having to deal with a loose denture.
According to studies, patients had an increase in self-esteem because of the comfort they gained with implant-supported dentures. Usually, treatment strategies in implant-supported dentures target any jaw stressors that limit mobility and cause pain. The goal is to assist each patient in achieving a healthy smile while giving comfort.

Unlike implant-supported dentures, loose dentures are artificial teeth that rest on your gums that look unnatural. It even has a chance of falling, which is too uncomfortable.

If you receive an implant-supported denture, your smile will appear more natural because it is personalised based on the appearance of your adjacent teeth.

Dentures that are supported by dental implants are a popular alternative to traditional dentures. When the dentures are worn, the implants help to keep them in place and prevent them from shifting. Although these implants are successful, they must be placed in healthy, strong bone tissue in order to be effective. Some patients who have lost teeth may not have jawbones that are strong enough to sustain dental implants in the future. Loss of bone tissue may disqualify a patient from receiving dental implants, as they are lodged in the jaw. In these circumstances, bone grafting is required to build a strong foundation for the denture supports.

Bone grafting replaces the missing jaw bone tissue. It is frequently accomplished by removing healthy bone tissue from the hips, ribs, legs, or any major bone. There are also materials that resemble synthetic bone tissues and can be utilised to do bone grafts.

Grafting is a simple outpatient surgery that usually takes 45-90 minutes. It is done at a dentist’s office. Because the patient is sedated throughout the treatment, it is painless. Antibiotics and pain relievers are administered to alleviate discomfort and prevent infection, respectively.
The initial recuperation phase lasts around two weeks, and the grafted bone mass takes up to three months to integrate with the existing bone tissue.

Because of advancements in dentistry, implant-supported dentures are becoming increasingly popular for both full and partially-edentulous patients. Unfortunately, failures and problems can still occur, despite the use of advanced methods of treatment development. The rare possible problems that might occur in implant-supported dentures are loss of attachment, mucositis, abutment screw loosening, and fracture of the dentures, especially when it is not properly attached by your dentist.

However, you don’t have to worry about these problems! In our dental clinic at Prospect Road Dental, we have protocols for implant-supported dentures from the time of diagnosis through the completion of treatment and follow-up to avoid risks and complications. These protocols include adequate technical steps as well as careful radiographic evaluation of the components to ensure that complications are as rare as possible.

When it comes to maintaining the longevity of implant-supported dentures, the same care and attention must be given to your natural teeth. Plaque might build up at the base of your dentures as a result of improper cleaning. When the patient’s dentures are not cleaned on a regular basis, the artificial teeth that make up the dentures will become stained and discoloured more quickly. In order to avoid this, here are some tips on how you can take care of your implant-supported dentures.

Dentures that are supported by implants can be cleaned by gently brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste. This aids in the removal of the biofilm that accumulates on the appliance and contributes to tooth damage and decay. Brushing also aids in the removal of some of the stains that develop on the artificial teeth.

A water flosser is useful for cleaning difficult-to-reach locations, such as the junction between gum tissues and dental restorations. Some of these flossers are equipped with little brushes that are specifically developed for cleaning dental implants. Plaque and tartar buildup around the implant can be prevented by using a water flosser and cleaning the implants with a brush after use.

Mouthwash is especially beneficial for individuals who wear dentures. It can be used to alleviate inflammation as well as to supplement oral hygiene when patients have difficulty flossing or cleaning their teeth.

An antiseptic or anti-plaque mouthwash can aid in the prevention of the formation of bacteria in your dentures. If your mouthwash contains fluoride, it may also be able to aid in the prevention of cavities. This is because fluoride can assist in preventing the cavitation and demineralisation of your teeth, which are both harmful conditions to your natural teeth and dentures.

Biannual dental appointments provide a dentist with an opportunity to review implant-supported dentures that are affixed to patients. It allows your dentist to treat early any difficulties that may arise, which avoids the possibility of complications.

Cleaning your implant-supported dentures and examining the patient’s dental health for any signs of diseases are two of the services provided by the dentist.

If you have any questions regarding how to care for your implant-supported dentures, you are always welcome to visit our dental clinic. We’re always delighted to assist patients in maintaining healthy smiles.

Implant-supported dentures cost differently for every patient. Generally, implant-supported dentures cost between $10,000 and $25,000.

Implant-supported dentures are expensive because the cost of treatment is usually influenced by factors such as bone density, the number of implants needed, and the type of denture. Also, these types of dentures can last for a long time if they are looked after properly. In addition, it offers a more reliable and comfortable solution than other removable options.

Implant-supported dentures are recommended if you have numerous missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures that sit on top of your gums, implant-supported dentures are fixed to your jawbone and will not slip. If you are interested in getting implant-supported dentures, visit our dental clinic.

Prospect Dental Road is a dental clinic with years of experience in creating implant-supported dentures for our patients. Our dental team will guarantee that your new set of teeth matches your existing natural teeth and gums perfectly. We employ 3D imaging technology and dental imprints to construct a prosthesis that feels like real teeth. Our goal is for your dentures to appear completely natural. When you visit our clinic, expect a thorough consultation as well as an honest evaluation of your dental health.

If you want to talk about your options and decide which treatment is best for you, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with one of our dental professionals by contacting 0893992037.

Disclaimer – Use At Your Own Risk :- The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as advice for any individual case or situation. Any action you take upon the information on these blogs are strictly at your own risk. We will not be liable for any losses or damages in connection with the use of the information from these blogs.

Prospect Road Dental Surgery
Dr. Abhi Singh
Dr. Abhi is a member of the Australian Dental Association and loves living and working in our community. He has eight years of experience in all aspects of dentistry, with a special interest in dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, and cosmetic dentistry.