Implant Dentures

Implant Dentures in North Miami Beach, FL

Please note we may not offer this service. Contact 305-945-0909 to learn more.

What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?

Implant-supported dentures, commonly referred to as overdentures, are securely attached to the jawbone via dental implants. A dental implant consists of a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone, serving as a stable foundation for the final denture. Once the implant integrates with the jawbone, an abutment is placed on top, connecting the denture to the implant for a secure fit.

There are two main types:

  1. Implant-supported dentures illustrationBar-retained
  2. Ball-retained

In a bar-retained implant-supported denture, a thin metal bar connects to the implant abutments, allowing the denture to snap onto the bar. In a ball-retained implant-supported denture, each abutment features a ball-shaped connector, and the denture has a corresponding socket that snaps onto the ball.

These supported dentures replace missing teeth, accommodating up to an entire arch in either the upper or lower jaw. They are typically recommended for individuals who have lost most or all of their natural teeth and possess sufficient jawbone density to support the implants. Unlike traditional dentures, which rely on adhesives for gum support, implant-supported dentures do not depend on the gums for stability.

To schedule a consultation, contact our North Miami Beach, FL dentist today at 305-945-0909.

Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures

Replacing your missing teeth with implant-supported dentures offers numerous advantages, such as:

  • Improved stability and security: Since dental implants are anchored to the jawbone, the dentures do not rely on gums for support, providing more stability and security than traditional dentures. This allows wearers to speak and smile confidently, knowing their dentures won’t slip.
  • Preservation of the jawbone: The loss of natural teeth can lead to jawbone shrinkage, causing a sunken and aged facial appearance. However, implant-supported dentures help maintain the jawbone’s integrity.
  • Improved quality of life: Implant-supported dentures can enhance the quality of life for those who have lost natural teeth. They restore the ability to eat a variety of foods, speak clearly, and smile confidently, significantly boosting self-esteem and well-being.
  • Long-lasting: With proper dental care and maintenance, implant-supported dentures can last many years, sometimes even a lifetime.
  • Natural-looking: These dentures resemble natural teeth.
  • Easy maintenance: They are easy to maintain and clean, much like natural teeth.

A man smiles confidently following his teeth whitening treatment.Cons

While implant dentures offer many benefits, there are potential drawbacks patients should be aware of:

  • Cost: They can be costly, with prices ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.
  • Surgical procedure: Dental implant surgery is required to place the implant posts, which can be invasive and involve recovery time.
  • Not suitable for everyone: Not all individuals are candidates. Those experiencing bone loss may need bone grafting before implant placement, and individuals with certain systemic health conditions may not be suitable candidates.
  • Temporary discomfort: There may be temporary discomfort or pain associated with the implant surgery and healing process.
  • Risk of implant failure: Although rare, there is a risk of implant failure if the dental implant doesn’t properly fuse during the healing phase.

The Implant-Supported Dentures ProcessA woman points to her smile that looks beautiful after her dentist appointment.

As dental implants support these dentures, patients will undergo oral surgery. The entire process can take between three and nine months. Patients will experience the following steps:

  1. Initial Appointment: Schedule your first appointment for our dentist to evaluate your oral health, discuss your dental history, and determine if implant dentures are the best solution for your needs.
  2. Procedure: Our dentist will make a small incision in your gums and place the implant posts. Once all necessary posts are in place, they’ll close the incision with sutures, and you’ll begin the healing process.
  3. Healing: Over three to six months, the posts will naturally fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration, providing a stable foundation for your denture restoration.
  4. Placing Your Dentures: Once fully healed, you’ll return to our North Miami Beach, FL dental office. The dentist will attach your custom dentures to the implants, giving you a new, beautiful smile.

Are You a Candidate?

To qualify for implant-supported dentures, individuals must have adequate jawbone density to support dental implants. If the jawbone isn’t dense enough, a bone grafting procedure may be necessary before placing a traditional denture over the implant. Ideal candidates for implant-supported dentures should also be in good overall health and free from systemic conditions that would make them unsuitable for implant surgery.

To learn more about your candidacy, contact our North Miami Beach, FL dentist today. They will evaluate your oral health, discuss your smile goals, and provide the best options for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do implant-supported dentures last?

With proper care and maintenance, implant-supported dentures can last many years, sometimes even a lifetime. By following a rigorous at-home oral hygiene routine and visiting your dentist twice a year for checkups, you can extend the longevity of your restoration.

Are implant-supported dentures painful?

Minor discomfort or pain is common after the implant procedure and during the healing process. However, any discomfort should be manageable with cold compresses or over-the-counter pain medications. Most people find the benefits of these dentures far outweigh any temporary discomfort.

Can implant-supported dentures be removed?

Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures are permanently anchored to the jawbone and aren’t removable. Only a qualified dentist can remove the restoration. Please do not attempt to remove the restoration yourself, as this can cause serious damage.

How many dental implants are needed for an implant-supported denture?

The number of implants needed varies depending on the individual case. Typically, four to six implants are used to support a full arch of dentures, while two to four implants may support a partial denture.

Improve Your Appearance With Natural-Looking Tooth Replacements

If you’re seeking a denture solution that doesn’t require messy adhesives or cause slipping in the mouth, implant-supported dentures may be ideal for you. For those in North Miami Beach, FL, contact our experienced dentist today. We’ll help you determine the best option to replace your missing teeth and achieve your smile goals.

Call our North Miami Beach, FL, office today at 305-945-0909 to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve patients in North Miami, Aventura, and West Park.