implant supported dentures

Implant-Supported Dentures

Unlike regular dentures which must be adhered to the gums with a special adhesive, implant-supported dentures are attached to small implants that are surgically attached to your jawbone. These dentures are more stable inside the mouth, which can make it easier for patients to eat, drink, and speak without complications caused by dentures sliding or moving.

However, implant-supported dentures are removable just like regular dentures, and that means they also require regular cleaning and removal at night. And while implant-supported dentures are more commonly fitted for the lower jaw, they can also be fitted for use in the upper jaw.

Bar-Retained Dentures vs Ball-Retained Dentures

There are two types of implant-supported dentures: bar-retained dentures and ball-retained dentures. Both types of dentures look like standard dentures. They’re both made from acrylic bases that are designed to look like gums, and they both are equipped with porcelain or acrylic teeth. In addition, both types of dentures need implants for support.

The differences between these two types of dentures include:

Bar-retained dentures
To fit your mouth for bar-retained dentures, your dentist will attach a thin metal bar that’s modeled after the curve of your jaw to between two and five implants that were surgically inserted in your jaw. Clips are then installed into the bar. Your dentures will clip into place on the implants, providing a secure base and attachment that doesn’t require adhesive.

Ball-retained dentures
Like bar-retained dentures, ball-retained dentures first require that your dentist insert implants into your jawbone. Each implant will be fitted with a metal attachment that corresponds with an attachment on your dentures. Either the implants or your dentures themselves will be equipped with ball-shaped attachments that hook into sockets on the corresponding piece, which creates a secure connection.

What Are the Advantages of Implant-Supported Dentures?

Some of the biggest worries that patients have about dentures is other people finding out that they’re wearing them, their dentures coming loose, or their dentures interfering with their speech. These can be issues for some people, especially if their dentures aren’t properly fitted or adhered to their gums.

Implant-supported dentures don’t have these issues due to the secure connections that they form with the implants that are placed in the jaw. Patients with implant supported dentures find they can chew the same foods they are accustomed to chewing with their natural teeth such as: steak, whole apples and carrots. Many patients report feeling more confident with implant-supported dentures compared to standard dentures.
Want to Learn More? Contact Clarksville’s Denture Professionals.
Making the decision on the best options to replace some or all your teeth isn’t an easy one. You have several options available, including crowns, bridges, standard dentures, and two types of implant-supported dentures. The dental professionals at 101st Adult Dentistry can evaluate your needs, your teeth, and your jaw to find the best solution for your mouth.

Don’t wait another day to get the smile you’ve been missing. Contact us today by calling(931) 906-8800.