Implant Retained Dentures

Advantages of implant retained dentures

• The increased stability removeable implant dentures afford, means you can eat and speak confidently. This is an especially beneficial element for patients who struggle to keep good suction and therefore stable lower denture.
• Since by definition, the implant retained denture is secured by the implanted posts, the denture doesn’t depend on greater palate coverage for suction, so is less bulky in the mouth making for a better tactile experience.
• Greater stability offered by the implant retained denture means better fit and comfort and less chance of sore spots, gums being rubbed, or mouth tissue irritated.
• Bone loss can occur when teeth are missing causing changes to the mouth anatomy and facial structure. Posts implanted into the jaw assist in preventing this. Therefore, fit is maintained so dentures don’t need to be replaced as often and facial structure is preserved maintaining a more youthful appearance.
• The implant retained denture can be easily removed for maintenance and cleaning
• The implant retained dentures are more time economic and less expensive because they require less bone density.

Disadvantages of implant retained dentures

• All surgery imposes some risk on the patient. It’s crucial therefore, that you conduct careful research into any surgical procedure you are considering. Be prepared to ask informed questions of your health practitioner. Disclose any underlying health issues you may have so you can discuss their possible impact on the success of your procedure with your health practitioners.
• The following points of disadvantage are derived from the Mayo Clinic. While not common, the problems encountered may include the following:
  • Infection is always a concern where there are open wounds
  • Damage to surrounding mouth tissue, teeth, bone, or blood vessels.
  • Damage to nerves may cause pain, numbness or tingling to adjacent areas like sinuses where dental implants protrude into sinus cavities.
• The Australian Dental Prosthetists Association (ADPA) recommends you seek a second opinion from a qualified health practitioner before you proceed. Carefully following post-operative advice gives you the best chance of a successful outcome.

The surgery phase of implant retained dentures process

To begin the process, you will attend your oral surgeon for two separate surgical procedures between 3 to 6 months apart. The first procedure is to implant the metal posts into your jaw, while during your second appointment excessive gum tissue will be removed to expose the top of the implanted posts allowing for the implant retained denture to be attached. There is a difference in healing time between implants, depending on whether they are placed in the upper jaw or lower jaw. This is due to differing bone thickness in upper and lower jaws and the time it takes for the posts and bone to integrate.

However, you don’t need to be concerned about being without teeth during this time. Your dental prosthetist can make you a temporary ‘placeholder’ denture to replace missing teeth. Alternatively, you can continue to wear your complete denture if you have one.

The denture phase of the implant retained dentures process

Once your mouth is sufficiently healed, the second phase of your implant retained denture process will begin. You will see your dental prosthetist who takes impressions of your gums from which a plaster model is constructed. A wax model complete with teeth, is made from this model and tried in your mouth to determine best fit and appearance. At this point you will get a good idea of what the end result will be and final adjustments will be made. Your new permanent implant retained denture will then be completed and fitted. You can expect the described process to take place over approximately four appointments.