Enjoy Optimal Stability with an Implant-Supported Denture

What are Implant-Supported Dentures?

Implant-supported dentures are similar to their conventional counterparts. However, rather than resting on the gum tissue for support, these restorations are connected to dental implants for optimal stability. Sometimes referred to as an overdenture, implant-supported dentures “snap” into place with retention technology and can be removed for easy cleaning and hygiene.

If you are currently wearing a traditional denture, and you are unhappy with the lack of security and stability, you may be a candidate for an implant-supported denture.

Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures

When compared to traditional dentures, implant-supported restorations offer numerous benefits for our patients. Implant-supported dentures provide:

• Improved Stability: Because the denture is connected to dental implants, there is little to no shifting or movement when chewing, eating, or speaking.
• Comfort: The advanced materials and techniques used in dentistry today offer sleek, elegant, and comfortable restorations.
• Increased Confidence: Many of our patients who stabilize their dentures with dental implants report that they smile more frequently and are more comfortable in social situations.
• Improved Oral Health: Because dental implants stimulate the nerves in the jaw and prevent bone atrophy, patients who choose implant-supported dentures can enjoy improved oral health. With this treatment, patients can avoid the “sunken-in” or hollow appearance that is common following tooth loss.

Who is a Candidate?

If you are currently wearing a traditional denture, and you are unhappy with the lack of security and stability, you may be a candidate for an implant-supported denture. It is important, however, that you have sufficient jawbone tissue. In order for implants to be successful long-term, they must be placed into dense, resilient bone tissue. Even if you are deficient in bone, we can often recommend preparatory procedures such as bone grafts or sinus lifts. These procedures can add height and width to the jawbone and increase your candidacy for dental implants.

Candidates for dental implants will be free from tooth decay and periodontal disease, and will be in general good health. If you are a smoker, we recommend quitting before the implant surgery, as tobacco products can significantly impair the body’s healing process.

Implant-Supported Denture Treatment Process

If Dr. Nordhus believes you are a candidate for an implant-supported denture, the first step is to place the implants. These titanium posts will be inserted into the jawbone during a surgical appointment. This can be performed under local anesthesia or in addition to other sedation options. 

Once the implants are placed, they will need to heal for several months. You will be able to wear a healing denture during this time. The healing period can vary for each patient; however, it generally takes approximately three to six months for the jawbone to successfully fuse to the implants. This process is called osseointegration, and it is necessary to ensure long-term success and stability.

Once you have fully healed and the implants have fused with your jawbone tissue satisfactorily, we will take impressions of your mouth. These will be sent to our dental lab, where a skilled technician will craft your new implant-supported denture. Typically, the fabrication process takes about one to two weeks.

Once your new restoration arrives from the lab, Dr. Nordhus will attach the denture to your implants. He will assess the fit and check your bite to ensure the pressure across your teeth and jaw joints is balanced. Once this is complete, you will be able to eat and speak with full confidence.

Learn More about Implant-Supported Dentures

If you are interested in learning more about implant-supported dentures, or any of our other restorative treatment options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Nordhus. Contact us online anytime or call our office at (316) 721-6730.