Implant-Supported Dentures

What are Implant Supported Dentures?

Implant-supported dentures, also called overdentures or “snap-on” dentures, are a combination of conventional dentures and dental implants. Overdentures are a removable option that sits more steadily on your jawbone through strategically placed dental implants. Secured with dental implants, these implant-supported dentures tackle one of the biggest issues conventional denture wearers face, which is that they move about and fall out. Visit our dental clinic located in Mulgrave VIC to get a more beautiful smile.

Am I an eligible candidate?

Overdentures are full dentures/sets of prosthetic teeth secured to your gums. In order to be eligible for this procedure, you must meet the following criteria:

The ideal candidate should have lost all or most of their upper or lower teeth.
Have adequate bone density in your jawbone to successfully support the dental implant, which will be surgically inserted into your jawbone.
Good oral health and overall health.

In the event of insufficient bone density, you can opt for bone grafting, where a small amount of bone from another location will be transplanted into the jawbone to improve the jawbone’s volume and density. Similarly, any existing infection or dental conditions will have to be treated before treatment begins.

Advantages of IMPLANT-SUPPORTED dentures

Easily removable – This makes it a lot easier to properly clean your prosthetic teeth and then insert them back in. This is also what differentiates it from other tooth replacement options.
No loose teeth – You no longer have to worry about your dentures floating around in your mouth or uncomfortable pressure on your gums.
No denture adhesives – Thanks to the use of dental implants, adhesives and other glues are no longer required to keep your dentures in place (so you don’t have to worry about sores either).
Better functionality – Improved stability and security allow your teeth to function better, essentially promoting better chewing efficiency, and allowing you to eat your favourite meals (even steak) without restrictions. It also allows you to speak clearly while promoting better health.
Natural look and feel – Implant-supported dentures are custom-made to look and feel like your teeth while providing a comfortable and secure fit.
Easy maintenance – Caring for these overdentures is similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing and dental check-ups should do the trick and keep your implant-supported dentures in good condition for longer.
Preserve the jawbone – Unlike dentures that sit on your gums, dental implants can stimulate the jawbone by restoring the tooth root and transmitting chewing and biting forces.
Durability – Due to wear and changes in your mouth, traditional dentures may need periodic adjustments and replacements. However, implant-supported dentures can last for many years, saving you from additional costs and frequent visits to the dentist.

What happens if you don’t replace your teeth with implants?

When you lose your teeth, your jawbone is no longer stimulated and kept healthy by activities such as eating or chewing food. Eventually, your body will decide that this bone is no longer necessary, and it will start to deteriorate. This bone loss can affect your oral health and overall well-being and give you a sunken facial appearance.

Conventional dentures lie on top of your gums and don’t necessarily stimulate your jaw bone either. With time, the subsequent deterioration of your jawbone will affect the fit of your dentures, making it difficult for them to stay in place, needing replacement or adjustments. Dental implants, on the other hand, trick your body into thinking teeth are present as they mimic the tooth root and are inserted and fused with your jawbone preventing any further bone loss.

The process of implant-supported dentures

The process of getting implant-supported dentures at Purity Dental involves 5 straightforward steps:

Initial Consultation: In your initial consultation, our dentist will conduct a thorough evaluation, with the aid of 3D imaging, to assess your oral health and if you meet the criteria for overdentures. If any infected or damaged teeth are found, subsequent appointments will involve removing these teeth or fully treating any infection before resuming the process of getting implant-supported dentures.
Implant Placement: The dental implants will be surgically placed into your jawbone. Dental X-rays of your jawbone will be used to determine the exact size and placement, and the implant placement will be performed under local anaesthesia.
Healing and Osseointegration: A healing period of up to 3 months will follow after the implants are placed, during which they will be covered with a healing cap. At the same time, the implants will also fuse with the jawbone to provide a secure foundation for your dentures.
Abutment Placement and Denture Fitting: Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, abutments (connectors between the implants and dentures) will be placed on top of the implants. We will then take impressions of your mouth to fabricate your dentures. They will be custom-made to provide a more comfortable and secure fit, just like your natural teeth.
Denture Placement: When your dentures are ready, our dentist will securely attach them to the abutments and make any necessary adjustments. And just like that, you have your new smile in place!

You may have to come in for follow-up appointments to ensure they are well-fitted to your individual smile! We will also provide aftercare instructions so you can make the most out of your implant-supported dentures.

Maintaining your IMPLANT-SUPPORTED dentures

Fortunately, looking after your implant-supported dentures is quite easy. All it takes is a consistent oral hygiene routine to avoid the accumulation of bacteria and infection over time. You need to brush your teeth and along your gums after each meal, as well as floss daily. You can even opt for special interdental brushes to clean hard-to-reach areas around your dental implants.

We highly recommend scheduling a regular dental checkup and professional clean around the implants every 6 months for us to evaluate that everything is in order and to intercept any problems early on. Interested in restoring your smile? We offer quality dental implants and the best dental care available, so call today to speak to one of our friendly dental professionals!

HOW MUCH DO IMPLANT-SUPPORTED DENTURES COST?

The cost of implant-supported dentures depends on certain factors, such as the type and number of dental implants needed, 3D X-rays and scans, and whether you need overdentures for your lower arch, upper arch or both.

To get a more accurate cost estimate, we recommend scheduling a consultation with one of our dentists at Purity Dental. After assessing your mouth and eligibility, we will provide you with a personalised treatment plan and cost breakdown.

We know that cost is an important consideration when making dental decisions. While implant-supported dentures cost more than traditional dentures, we don’t want cost considerations to prevent you from making the best decision for your smile. That is why we offer flexible payment plans to help you finance your dental treatments more easily without undue stress. If you want to learn more about these options, our friendly team is always here to help.