If you’re missing an entire arch of teeth, whether from injury, decay, or gum disease, implant dentures offer a more stable and comfortable alternative to traditional removable dentures. Here’s how implant dentures work and what to expect from treatment at Now Dental in Bellmore, NY.
What Are Implant Dentures?
Implant dentures, also called implant-supported dentures, are dentures secured to the jaw using a small number of dental implants rather than relying on suction or adhesive alone. Instead of resting loosely on the gums like a traditional denture, an implant denture snaps securely onto implant posts anchored in the jawbone, dramatically improving stability. This option is often recommended for patients with an uncomfortable or loose-fitting denture, or for anyone missing a full upper or lower arch who wants a more secure, functional solution.
Why Do Patients Choose Implant Dentures Over Removable Dentures?
Implant dentures offer several advantages over traditional removable dentures. They look and function more like natural teeth, they won’t shift or fall out of place while eating or speaking, and because the implant posts are anchored in the jawbone, they help prevent the ongoing bone loss that occurs when the jaw no longer receives stimulation from tooth roots. Implant dentures are also built to last significantly longer than traditional dentures, which typically need to be relined or replaced every several years as the shape of the jaw and gums changes over time.
How Do Implant Dentures Work?
Treatment begins with your dentist numbing the area where the implants will be placed. A small number of implant posts, sometimes called mini implants, are then securely anchored into the surrounding jawbone. Special attachments on the underside of the denture connect to these implants, so when the denture is placed in your mouth, it snaps securely onto the posts and stays firmly in place throughout the day.
Depending on how many implants are needed, the surgical portion of treatment typically takes one to three hours. Some post-surgical discomfort is common, but it’s usually manageable with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, and some patients don’t need pain medication at all.
What Does Recovery from Implant Denture Surgery Involve?
After your implants are placed, your dentist will recommend sticking to soft foods, avoiding anything crunchy or chewy, while your mouth heals. Full healing, including the process where the implants fuse with the jawbone, can take up to three months. During this time, your dentist will monitor your progress with follow-up visits to ensure everything is healing as expected before your final denture adjustments are complete.
What Are the Benefits of Implant Dentures?
Choosing implant dentures is a significant investment in your long-term oral health and quality of life. Because the denture is anchored by implants, patients experience far greater chewing ability compared to a traditional denture, which can struggle with harder or chewier foods. The secure fit also means less worry about the denture slipping while talking or laughing in social situations. Beyond function, implant dentures help preserve your natural facial structure by maintaining jawbone density, which can prevent the sunken facial appearance that sometimes develops after long-term tooth loss. For many patients, the combination of comfort, stability, and confidence makes implant dentures well worth the investment.
Am I a Candidate for Implant Dentures?
Most patients missing a full arch of teeth are candidates for implant dentures, provided they have enough remaining bone volume to support the implant posts. Patients who have worn traditional dentures for years and experienced significant bone loss may still be candidates, sometimes with additional preparatory procedures. A consultation and imaging evaluation with an experienced provider is the best way to find out if implant dentures are right for you. At Now Dental, implant treatment is led by Dr. Mitchell A. Kaufman, a periodontist and implant specialist who has placed more than 15,000 dental implants over more than 30 years of practice.
How Do Implant Dentures Compare to Full-Mouth Dental Implants?
Implant dentures are removable, snapping onto implant posts for improved stability, while full-mouth dental implant solutions are permanently fixed in place and cannot be removed by the patient. Both options use a similar number of implant posts to support a full arch, but the choice between a removable or fixed solution comes down to personal preference, budget, and individual candidacy, which your dentist can help you evaluate during a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many implants are needed to secure a denture? This varies by patient, but implant dentures typically use a small number of strategically placed implants, often four to six per arch, rather than one implant per missing tooth.
Is getting implant dentures painful? The procedure is performed with local anesthesia or sedation, so patients don’t feel pain during placement. Some post-surgical soreness is normal but generally manageable.
How long do implant dentures last? With proper care, the implant posts themselves are designed to last for decades, while the denture portion may need periodic adjustment or replacement over time.
Can I eat normally with implant dentures? Yes, once healing is complete. Implant dentures offer significantly better chewing function than traditional dentures since they don’t shift during eating.
Will insurance cover implant dentures? Coverage varies by plan. The team at Now Dental can help you understand your benefits and explore financing options like Cherry Financing if needed.
How do I clean implant dentures? Implant dentures should be removed daily for cleaning, similar to traditional dentures, along with regular brushing around the implant attachments to keep the surrounding gum tissue healthy.
Can implant dentures be converted to a fixed, non-removable solution later? In some cases, yes. Depending on your bone health and the number of implants placed, your dentist may be able to discuss transitioning to a permanently fixed full-arch solution in the future.
Schedule Your Implant Denture Consultation
If you’re tired of dealing with a loose or uncomfortable denture, implant dentures may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Schedule a consultation with the experienced team at Now Dental in Bellmore, NY, or call (516) 614-4669 to learn more.
