Implant-Supported Dentures in Irvine, CA

Implant-Supported Dentures vs. All-on-4

Implant-supported dentures and All-on-4 treatment both use dental implants, but they are not necessarily the same restoration. Implant-supported dentures may be removable or designed differently depending on the treatment plan, while All-on-4 commonly refers to a full-arch restoration supported by four strategically positioned implants. Your dentist can explain which approach is appropriate for your needs.

Implant-supported dentures can be an ideal solution for any denture-wearer to help alleviate some of the daily struggles they face, such as fear of one’s dentures slipping or falling out.

How do implant-supported dentures work?

If an individual has sufficient bone left in the jaw to support dental implants, dental implants can be placed directly into the jawbone by way of the root. Not only does this provide a foundation to stabilize your dentures, but the stimulation of the dental implants in the gums and bone actually encourages tissue regeneration and reverses the effects of periodontal disease.

There are primarily two types of implant-supported dentures: bar-retained and ball-retained models. Bar-retained dentures are secured by a thin metal bar that connects the denture to the dental implants using a clip or other attachment.

Ball-retained dentures, also known as stud-attached dentures, utilize a ball-and-socket mechanism to hold the denture and implant together. In both cases, the denture is completely stable when attached, but can be removed as needed for cleaning or while sleeping.

What are the benefits of implant-supported dentures over traditional ones?

Implant-supported dentures enjoy a number of benefits over traditional dentures, including the following advantages:

More secure

Once in place, implant-supported dentures are completely secure and stable, allowing you to eat, speak and chew normally without fear of your dentures falling out or slipping.

Fewer adjustments

Once secured, implant-supported dentures do not slide around and, therefore, require fewer visits to the dentist for adjustments. Also, since dental implants help maintain the structure in one’s gums and bone, the gum line tends to keep its shape and strength instead of deteriorating under the weight of the denture.

Better oral health

Because the dental implants stimulate the tissues beneath the gum line, activating natural tissue regeneration, there are fewer crevices for plaque and bacteria to hide, preventing the onset or progression of periodontal disease.

Better appearance

Traditional dentures tend to weigh down and wear out the gums, which can actually accelerate the deterioration of one’s gums. Without the stimulation provided by dental implants, this gum and bone tissue deterioration can cause facial wrinkles and give one the appearance of a shrunken or sagging lower jaw.