Implant Supported Dentures
Losing one's teeth can be a frightening situation. We built this page to help our patients better understand their treatment options when dealing with the complete or partial loss of their teeth. If after having reviewed the following information you still have questions or want to discuss your specific situation, please call and make an appointment.
Traditionally tissue supported dentures were the first line of treatment when a patient lost his or her teeth. The two major downsides to tissue supported dentures is the lack of retention and the continuation of bone loss. Tissue supported dentures rest on the gums. Their retention levels are low and they can irritate and cause sores in the mouth. When teeth are removed there are anatomical changes that occur to the bone and the tissue that surrounded and supported the teeth. When you place a tissue supported denture on a ridge with no teeth , the changes speed up resulting in even a faster rate of bone loss.
Implants changed everything when it came to treating denture patients. Dentures can now be supported by implants, which dramatically increases retention and stops or slows down bone loss.
Overdenture example
Zirconia prosthesis
Currently there are multiple ways in which implants can support a denture and multiple materials that dentures can be made of. The key is to find a solution that is stable, repairable, and cleansable. Every solution or option meets those objectives to varying degrees. We try to find out what is most important to you, and then move toward a solution that best meets your needs.