Alafaya Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry

Implant Retained Dentures

Implant Retained Dentures or implant supported partial dentures stabilize the removable appliance in place reducing the slip and movement when speaking or eating. The concept of implant supported over-dentures is not new, over-dentures originally were used with remaining tooth roots sticking up through the gum to stabilize and retain the denture. Retaining the tooth roots also helps to preserve the jaw bone.

When a tooth or teeth are lost, bone loss also occurs.  Over time a toothless jaw battered by a denture has substantial bone loss. Dental implants, like teeth, conserve jawbone. If possible it is advised that dental implants be placed, as soon as possible, to avoid bone loss.

Dental implants are artificial teeth roots made from titanium screws that are placed in the upper or lower jaw that stabilize the removable denture.  Depending on the number and location of the implants, the denture can be completely retained, supported and stabilized by the implants. During an implant procedure, 4 implants can be placed in the upper jaw that could enable the elimination of the palate of a full-denture.  Two implants in the lower would make a lower full denture more stable and retentive. There are dozens of options such as snaps or clips to help improve the comfort of full dentures. Dr. Michaelson most commonly uses LOCATOR® attachments.

These are LOCATOR® attachments. An attachment is screwed into your implant and a plastic ring is embedded into the underside of your denture. The denture snaps over the implant attachment providing excellent support. Patients can adjust the retention level by changing out the snap down rings.  The rings wear out over time and are relatively inexpensive to change out.