Which Implant System Is Right For You?
Whether you have been wearing dentures for years, or you are graduating into your first set, denture on implant solutions will improve your level of comfort, fit, confidence, and chewing power.
There are 3 types of Denture on Implant scenarios typically seen in the industry. Depending on your budget, and amount of remaining jawbone, the following are the most frequently chosen options:
- 2 Free Standing Implants -With A Removable Denture
Treatment planned typically for the lower arch.
Best used in 8-15mm of bone depth.
Better than a conventional denture fit, and offers a nice hold, especially in the anterior.
Economical, and easily maintained.
Preserves bone levels in the anterior, and combats future bone loss in that area.
No “down time” without dentures in.
Easy procedure – requires 1.5 hours in the dental chair under local freezing/ light sedation.
After 3-4 months of healing, the lower denture is modified so the two pieces snap together for hold. - 4 -6 Implants with Bar- With A Removable Denture
Treatment planned for the upper or lower arches.
Used for upper denture patients with poor palatal support, patients that have uncontrollable gag reflexes due to the denture extension, or for patients that would like an open palate concept for better taste, and less invasive feel.
Can be used in 6-8 mm of bone depth.
Offers an exceptional hold throughout the entire arch.
Easily maintained and offers good hygiene.
Preserves bone levels in all areas across the ridge.
No “down time” without dentures in.
Easy procedure – requires 2-3 hours in the dental chair under light to moderate sedation.
After 3-4 months healing, the denture is modified so the two pieces snap together for hold. - All on 4 – Fully Fixed or Fixed/ Removable Denture
Treatment planned for the upper or lower arches.
Can utilize angled implants (which in some cases can eliminate the need for bone grafting).
Offers zero movement of the denture. The fixed or fixed/removable design is as close to natural teeth as possible.
The strongest and least invasive denture feel.
No down time without dentures in.
Moderate procedure – requires 3-4 hours in the dental chair under sedation.
After 3-4 months healing a milled bar and permanent prosthesis is constructed.
There are 4 situations in which denture on implant scenarios are not advisable:
Uncontrollable diabetes, Heavy smoking habit, Prior radiation treatment above the breastbone or Less than 5 mm of bone depth.
Your age should not be not a factor. If you are looking for a confident feel and fit for your dentures, and if you want to eliminate troublesome sore spots when you eat the foods you love, Implants are worth exploring!
Tricia Thobaben, is a Registered Denturist at the Sullivan Denture Centre, and has been providing her patients with denture on implant solutions for over 18 years. She works in co-operation with dentists and specialists to provide you with optimal Denture on Implant care.