Removable dental implants

Versatile dentures

Fixed permanent dentures and removable dentures both use implants to keep the dentures in place, prevent slipping, and provide additional facial support, particularly for patients with significant bone loss. What’s different, however, is that removable dentures can be taken out for much easier cleaning with less effort and time. Another benefit of removable dentures on implants is their cost — this option is about half the cost of a fixed permanent denture.

We are happy to discuss the process of implants and the options around removable and fixed implants with you. Call us to arrange a free consultation to discuss what’s right for you.

Removable dentures on implants have several advantages:

  • They can cost up to half as much as other options.
  • They’re much easier to clean because the prostheses can be removed. This makes cleaning not only easier, but faster too.
  • For patients with extensive bone loss, implant overdentures can offer additional facial support. This is a feature of the denture extension under the lips to fill in the space where bone was lost.

Q&A

How much do implant-supported dentures cost?

The cost of dental implant surgery will be dependent on a few things. Among the factors that affect the cost are how many implants are placed in the jaw and the type of denture that is fabricated over the implants.

Are there downsides to dental implants?

Dental implant dentistry can be a lengthier treatment process. It will depend on the bone quality and availability, but sometimes bone grafting surgery may be required. Implants normally take 3-6 months to heal. For some patients, immediate temporary appliances can be placed at the time of surgery.

The cost may also be a limiting factor for some patients, especially if several implants are required and what kind of appliance is being restored on the implants.

How many implants are needed for the upper jaw?

In most cases, the minimal number of implants for a removable restoration on the upper jaw is four. For a non-removable restoration, six or more implants may be required.

Does food get trapped under dental implants?

Sometimes. Certain types of food are more likely to get caught between the soft gum tissues and the teeth or implants to which they are attached.

Are implant-supported dentures removable?

Only your denturist or a dentist can remove the denture for cleaning and examination, so they are not considered removable. An implant-supported prosthesis is a denture that is retained and supported by four or more dental implants, and it’s fixed on implants.

How long do implant supported dentures last?

Dental implants can last anywhere from 10-20 years or even longer. Depending on wear, the implant supported dentures may need to be replaced or repaired.

Can regular dentures be permanently attached?

For some patients, a conventional denture could be used as a transitional or temporary form of treatment while their dental implants heal. But it’s difficult to use your existing denture once your final restoration is complete. It will be reinforced with a CAD/CAM substructure which is something that can’t be added to an existing denture.