Just mentioning the word "dentures" makes some people cringe. At some point, dentures turned from being a viable solution for tooth loss in patients to a negative word in the dental health community. Whenever dentures are mentioned, people immediately imagine the worst situation such as having the dentures slip out of place while socializing or during a meal. It could be quite embarrassing if this were to happen, but there is a permanent alternative called implant supported dentures or overdentures. This is a different type of denture that works in concert with dental implants to help secure them in place. With this type of denture, there is no need to use the messy adhesives necessary with traditional dentures. The overdenture is permanently secured in the oral cavity to dental implants which are embedded into the jawbone. Those who would like to find out more information are welcome to come see us at our Coastal Maine Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery office.
Types of Implant Supported Dentures
When patients come to see us, we will do a complete assessment and determine which type of dental implant best suits the patient and their needs. The evaluation process takes less than 15 minutes.
The first type of implant-supported denture is known as a bar-retained denture. It uses a thin bar of metal which is then secured to the implant. The denture is then attached to it by using small clips to secure it in place.
The second type is a ball retained denture which uses a small socket rather than a thin metal bar. A small ball is then used to attach the denture to the implant. This helps to secure it in place.
What is Involved?
Implant placement does take multiple appointments for a successful placement. This is due to the fact that there needs to be an adequate amount of time to allow for proper healing of the implants. Learn more about dental implant FAQs here.
The Final Placement
The reliance on digital technology allows for computer design and manufacturing to exact specifications based upon the measurements of the patient's oral cavity. In short, this means they will fit exactly in the patient's mouth. There is no need for reshaping because they are designed to fit specifically in the individual's mouth. This also means that since they fit perfectly there will be no areas of the mouth that are rubbed raw due to ill-fitting dentures.
Implant-supported dentures can provide an excellent artificial tooth solution. To find out more about dental implants, please come to our Coastal Maine Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery office. We are also available by phone too. Contact us at 207-401-5006 to get some answers and to schedule your office visit.