All you need to know before having Implant Supported Dentures
What are implant supported dentures?
A Dental implant is a titanium fixture placed in the jawbone to act as a tooth root, the implant and bone fuse together, a process called osseo-integration. An implant can be used to provide support for a crown, bridge, or denture. Minuk Denture Clinic has been treating denture wearers in Winnipeg with dental implants since 1987!
An implant- supported denture is a type of overdenture that is supported by and attached to two or more implants. It is usually made for the lower jaw because regular dentures tend to be less stable there. However, you can receive an implant-supported denture in either the upper or lower jaw.
Here are two types of Implant Supported Dentures:
Bar-retained Over- Dentures: The denture is held in place by being attached to a bar which is secured to 2 or more implants. This treatment is very secure and stable.
Ball/ Locator Retained Over-Dentures: The Dentures with sockets snap into the balls/ locators placed on the gumline. Your denture is removable.
Why have the procedure done?
Dental Implants are the only real solution for loose lower denture. Unlike an upper denture, a lower denture has no suction and relies heavily on the bone structure it sits upon. If a denture wearer has little jaw bone, the lower denture is not likely to stay put. Two or more implants are placed which assures your denture will stay in place. This will reduce sore spots and discomfort. If your denture is in good condition, your denturist can retrofit your denture to the implants or, we will make you a new denture.
Ill fitting dentures can cause irritation, discomfort and sores. With implant supported dentures, these issues are almost non existent because your denture will remain firmly in place. Dentures typically need to be replaced every 5-7 years.
Jawbone recession can drastically change your facial appearance. Being without teeth can cause the mouth to over close thereby creating a “sunken in’ appearance in the face. With dental implants, you not only help preserve your jaw bone but the denture on implants will support your facial structure.
What about traditional dentures?
Traditional dentures are often felt to be uncomfortable and inconvenient. Denture wearers often complain of discomfort, embarrassment, and dissatisfaction with their appearance. Over time wearing dentures can cause bone and gum loss as they do not stimulate jaw bone.
Properly fitted dentures and dentures that are supported by dental implants are more convenient. Dentures supported by implants act as natural teeth to stimulate the bone and prevent bone loss. They also stay put and do not slip out of place. You’ll be to eat all the foods you like!
Does Dental Insurance Cover this type of treatment?
Depending on your plan, partial coverage for dental implant treatment may be covered. At the time of your free consultation, we can send a pre estimate to your insurance company on your behalf to see what your plan will cover. We also offer payment plans for patients in Winnipeg.
Once we have determined if you are a good candidate for dental implants then we can get started! Most conventional dental implant procedures are done in two stages. In both scenarios, a temporary bridge or implant denture may be used. This temporary denture is then replaced 6 months later.
There are many benefits of having an implant supported denture. Because the dental implant acts as a tooth root, it will prevent further degradation or further bone resorption of your jaw bone. Your denture will stay firmly in place and you’ll have a renewed bite force, which will allow you to eat a variety of foods without worrying about your dentures becoming dislodged. An implant supported denture will improve the function, ability to speak, bite, chew and smile with confidence.
If you have any questions about dental implants or want to find out if you are a good candidate, contact us at Minuk Denture Clinic. We’d love to help!
Minuk Digital Denture and Implant Centre is Canada’s largest Denture Clinic located in Winnipeg, Manitoba. With over 100,000+ dentures created since 1977, our team is confident that we can help you love your smile again. Minuk has denture solutions for all budgets and are here to help you understand the cost of dentures and the process of getting new dentures. Our team of denturists and expert staff are here to help you get the smile you’ve always wanted. Check out our Smile Stories and learn more about the Minuk difference by reviewing our website or calling us at 204.589.6329. Book your Free Consultation Today!