A Short Guide to Implant Supported Dentures

You’re probably familiar with dental implants. And you most likely know what dentures are. What you may not know is that there is a type of denture that is supported by dental implants. Continue reading to learn more about implant supported dentures.

What are Implant Supported Dentures?

When many of us think of dentures we imagine them as easily slipping out of place. This can cause embarrassment when it happens in public. Implant supported dentures are a solution to this problem. They are more stable than traditional removable dentures.

A dental implant is a metal rod that is embedded into the jawbone. A dental specialist will place the abutment, or connector, to the top of these rods. Abutments connect to the denture to hold it firmly in place. The implant surgery may require as few as two or as many as six implants in both upper and lower jaw.

Types of Implant Supported Dentures

Two types of implant supported dentures are the bar-retained denture and the ball-retained denture. A bar-retained denture clips on to a metal bar attached to implants in the jawbone. A ball-retained denture attaches to metal attachments on each implant.

Both types of dentures are made of an acrylic base formed in the shape of our gums. They resemble natural gums in color and overall appearance.  Porcelain or acrylic are common materials for creating artificial teeth. These artificial teeth are attached on top of the acrylic base. Both bar-retained and ball-retained dentures require the support of at least two implants.

Affordability Over the Long Term

Implant supported dentures are an affordable option. They restore the full biting capabilities and beautiful smiles in people who are missing their full set of natural teeth. The loss of teeth may be due to an accident, decay, or a result of the aging process. Implants can last for the lifetime of the patient with proper care. As a result, they are an affordable option over traditional dentures which can break.

Long Lasting and Reliable

Implants supported dentures are more durable than removable dentures. While traditional dentures seem like the most cost-efficient option they do require adjustments. Implant-supported dentures, on the other hand, are more reliable. They are less likely to require repairs or adjustments. In the long run, the better option is an implant-supported denture.

Easy to Care for

It’s easy to care for implant-supported dentures. A single-tuft toothbrush is a great option to clean areas around the metal abutments. A soft-bristle toothbrush and denture cleaning solution are a great option to clean the dentures. Failure to maintain good oral hygiene around the abutment, and to properly clean the dentures themselves, can lead to inflammation of the gums.

Schedule a Checkup Today!

The dental professionals at EON Clinics are dedicated to your oral health and well-being. Our highly-trained team uses cutting-edge technology in our onsite labs. This creates a one-stop shop for all your dental implant needs. EON Clinics is located throughout Chicagoland and in southern Wisconsin and northwest Indiana.

From single and multiple tooth to full jaw all-on-4 dental implants, EON Clinics helps patients enjoy eating and smiling again. EON Clinics does not offer implant-supported dentures. However, if you would like to find out how dental implants can improve your life, please schedule a free consultation online today or call us at 800-250-3500.