Implant-Supported Dentures in St. Clair Shores

What is an Implant-supported Denture?

An implant-supported denture receives support from implants, not your gum. The implant denture attaches to a bar or uses a ball and socket system to hold the denture securely. You can eat and speak without worrying about your dentures moving. You can have implant-supported dentures to replace your upper and lower teeth. If you choose an upper denture, you won’t have the large palate covering the roof of your mouth. Most people are good candidates for dentures supported by implants, although some people do require preliminary work. Advanced periodontal disease can preclude you from enjoying the benefits of dentures supported by implants.

What is the Process for Getting Implant-supported Dentures?

Implant-supported dentures use bar or ball retention systems. Ball retention dentures have implant abutments with a ball top which snaps into sockets in the denture. Bar-retained dentures have housings inside the denture which clips over a bar held in place by the implants. Our dentist will explain how the difference affects you and will make a recommendation based on previous patient satisfaction since both systems are effective.

It takes two visits to get implant-supported dentures after your initial consultation. That’s assuming you don’t need any preliminary work, such as an extraction. During your first visit, your dentist will insert the implants into your jawbone. It will take between two and six months for the bone to fuse with the implants and provide a stable base for a denture. You’ll then have a second surgery to expose the implant tops for the abutments. Your dentist will then fit your custom-made dentures. In some cases, it may be possible to retrofit your existing denture with sockets or clips.

If you do not already have an existing complete denture, we can have one made for you at the dental lab. We suggest a higher-end denture since it won’t need replacing as often as a denture which rests on your gums. While some types of dentures are slightly more expensive, they look more like natural teeth and may provide great satisfaction, but the choice is always yours to make.

In some cases, our dentist can place your implants and place the abutments on them in one visit, eliminating the second minor surgery. We will combine steps whenever possible. Our dentist will always go over your treatment plan with you in detail so you know what to expect every step of the way.

How Do Dentists Determine the Cost of Denture Implants?

We base your implant-supported dentures cost on the number of implants placed, whether you need any preparatory procedures and the quality of your denture. Most dental insurance companies don’t offer coverage for implant dentures. If you call our office and schedule a consultation, our dentist can give you a reasonably accurate estimate for the cost of our affordable quality implant-supported dentures.

Why Should I Choose Implant-supported Dentures?

You’ll enjoy a strong bite so you can eat crisp apples, corn-on-the-cob and other foods you’ve been missing. You also won’t have any fear of speaking publicly and having your dentures slip. Now, people will hear what you’re saying clearly since you won’t have to use your tongue to keep your denture in place. An implant denture is very stable; you will never need to use messy denture adhesives again.

Dentures supported by implants can also improve your appearance. When you wear regular dentures the jaw bone does not receive any stimulation from a tooth root. A process called resorption occurs, which means your body takes calcium from your jaw bone and redistributes it elsewhere so your face appears sunken. Implants act as artificial roots are keep your jaw bone stimulated. You’ll retain a youthful appearance longer when you switch from regular dentures to ones anchored by implants.

How Do I Clean My Implant-supported Dentures?

Plaque can form on a denture. Protect your investment in your new implant-supported dentures by cleaning your denture, gums and abutments twice daily. Use a soft or extra-soft toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleaner that your dentist recommends. Avoid regular toothpaste as it can cause microscopic scratches on porcelain teeth which will trap bacteria. You also need to keep your scheduled appointments so our dentist can check your gum health and professionally clean your dentures.

Where Do I Go for Implant Dentures?

Deciding to switch from regular dentures to ones supported by implants is a major decision. Call our dental practice for a consultation about getting implant-supported dentures in St. Clair Shores and we’ll determine if you are a good candidate. We won’t rush you into making a decision because we know the advantages speak for themselves. Our affordable quality implant-supported dentures make it easy for you to invest in your smile.