7449 East Osborn Road #4 Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
What Are Implant-Retained Dentures
Unlike traditional dentures, which rely on suction and soft tissue support to stay in place and are removable, implant-retained dentures combine the advantages of dentures with those of dental implants. You get to enjoy the stability, esthetics, and longevity of implants with the affordability of dentures, as well as a much shorter recovery period than a full mouth reconstruction with conventional individual implants would require.
For patients who have experienced the frustration of loose, shifting, or uncomfortable traditional dentures, implant-retained dentures offer a life-changing upgrade. The security of knowing your dentures are anchored firmly in place — without adhesives or the worry of slippage while eating or speaking — gives patients a level of confidence and comfort that conventional dentures simply cannot provide.
How Do Implant-Retained Dentures Work
Where conventional dental implants are one per tooth, implant-retained dentures are held in place by only four implants per arch to give them permanent stability. That’s about 24 fewer implants! Because these dentures are supported by the bone, they don’t put pressure on the gums. This makes chewing much easier and helps reduce bone loss in the jaw. They are more common for the lower jaw, but can also be made for the upper jaw.
Process for Getting Implant-Retained Dentures
Getting implant-retained dentures at Dentistry of Old Town Scottsdale is a well-structured process that our team will guide you through from start to finish:
- Initial consultation — Dr. Brittain evaluates your jawbone health, gum tissue, and overall oral condition to confirm you are a good candidate for implant-retained dentures.
- Treatment planning — Detailed imaging is used to map out the ideal placement of the four implants for maximum stability and long-term success.
- Implant placement — The titanium implants are surgically positioned in the jawbone under local anesthesia, with minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.
- Healing and integration — The implants are given time to fuse with the surrounding bone, a process that typically takes a few months.
- Denture fitting — Once the implants have fully integrated, your custom denture is attached and carefully adjusted for comfort, fit, and bite alignment.
Who Does Dr. Brittain Recommend Them for
Dr. Brittain may recommend implant-retained dentures for patients with no natural teeth remaining if they still have enough healthy jaw bone to support the implants, particularly when full mouth reconstruction with individual implants is outside the patient’s price range. If you want to learn more about implant-retained dentures, call 480-719-6994 or send us an email.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are implant-retained dentures?
Implant-retained dentures are dentures securely anchored to dental implants, offering improved stability, comfort, and function compared to traditional removable dentures.Who is a good candidate for implant-retained dentures?
Adults with missing teeth and sufficient jawbone density are ideal candidates. A dental evaluation is needed to determine eligibility for implants.How long do implant-retained dentures last?
With proper care, dental implants can last 10–20 years or more, while the denture portion may need to be replaced or adjusted over time.Are implant-retained dentures better than traditional dentures?
Yes, they provide better stability, prevent slipping, improve chewing ability, and help maintain jawbone health compared to traditional dentures.Are implant-retained dentures worth the cost?
Yes, they offer improved comfort, function, and long-term oral health benefits, making them a valuable investment for many patients.