Implant supported dentures are over-dentures that are fixed to the gums by dental implants so that they don’t rest on the gum like conventional dentures. These denture implants are most often used in the lower jaw because conventional dentures don’t fit properly in the lower jaw. However, implant supported dentures can be used in the upper jaw as well. An implant supported denture snaps into place over a framework that is anchored to dental implants and can be removed at night or for cleaning.
Types of Implant Dentures
There are two types of implant supported dentures: bar-attached dentures and ball-retained dentures. Bar-attached denture implants are attached to a thin metal bar that runs between several dental implants in the jawbone. Clips are used to attach the dentures to the bar, which is curved to match the shape of the jawbone.
Ball-retained dentures or stud-attachment dentures use a ball-and-socket design to attach the dentures to the implants. Usually, the implants have a ball on top of them, and the dentures have sockets. The dentures snap into place over the implants. Sometimes the balls and sockets are reversed. If that is the case, the implants will have sockets and the balls will be located on the dentures.
Why Choose Implant Supported Dentures?
Those who are thinking about having denture implants surgery usually want to know why they should choose them instead of conventional dentures. Although the denture implants cost is more than traditional dentures, there are many benefits that may justify the cost of getting implants.
Confidence in Public
Those who opt for implant supported dentures are more confident when they talk, laugh, and eat in public. This is because they do not have to worry about their false teeth slipping or falling out while they are eating or engaged in conversation. Snap-in dentures are also less likely than conventional dentures to interfere with normal speech.
Improved Comfort
Implant retained dentures are more comfortable than conventional dentures because they are secure and feel like normal teeth. In addition, people who have decided to undergo the denture implants procedure do not have to cope with the canker sores that can be caused by conventional dentures. The palate is not covered by implant dentures so the normal feel of the mouth is retained. It is uncomfortable when your tongue hits a plastic sheet instead of your palate. Also, since implant supported dentures are held firmly in place by the implants, there is no danger of the discomfort caused by loose dentures sliding around in the mouth.
Better for Eating
Conventional dentures only provide about 20% eating efficiency. Many people have to take out their conventional dentures before they eat. Implant attached dentures restore eating capacity to 50% of what normal teeth can offer. People with any type of dentures should avoid very hard and sticky foods.