If you’ve been living with traditional dentures, you may already be familiar with some of their common challenges—slippage during meals, the need for adhesives, or discomfort after a long day of wear. While dentures have long been a reliable way to restore missing teeth, advances in dental technology have made it possible to achieve a more secure and natural-feeling solution.
At Implant & Perio Center of Kansas, our team offers implant-supported dentures as a modern, adhesive-free alternative designed to help patients feel more confident in their daily lives. If you’re curious about a solution that provides greater stability and comfort, you may want to explore whether implant-supported dentures are right for you.
What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?
Implant-supported dentures combine the benefits of dental implants with the full-arch tooth replacement of traditional dentures. Rather than resting directly on the gums like conventional dentures, these dentures are anchored securely to implants that are surgically placed in the jawbone.
The Two Main Components
There are two key parts to implant-supported dentures:
- Dental Implants – Small titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots.
- Overdenture – A custom-made denture that attaches to the implants for added stability and functionality.
Unlike traditional dentures that may shift or require adhesives, implant-supported dentures are designed to “snap” or lock into place. This connection not only improves performance but also helps the denture feel more like natural teeth.
Bar-Retained vs. Ball-Retained Designs
There are two primary types of implant-supported dentures, and the right option depends on individual needs:
- Bar-Retained Dentures – A thin metal bar is secured to implants placed in the jaw. The denture then clips onto the bar, distributing force evenly and offering excellent support.
- Ball-Retained Dentures (Locator-Attached) – Each implant features a small ball-shaped connector that fits into sockets on the denture. This setup allows the denture to snap securely into place.
Both options can provide remarkable improvements in fit and function, helping patients regain confidence in their smiles.
Key Advantages Over Traditional Dentures
Many patients who switch from traditional dentures to implant-supported options notice an immediate difference in comfort, stability, and overall quality of life. Here are some of the most compelling benefits:
1. Stronger Bite and Better Chewing Efficiency
Because implant-supported dentures are anchored directly to the jawbone, they offer significantly greater bite force than traditional dentures. This makes it easier to enjoy a variety of foods—especially those that are harder to chew, such as apples, corn on the cob, or steak.
2. No More Messy Adhesives
Adhesives can be messy, inconvenient, and unreliable. With implant-supported dentures, there’s no need to worry about reapplying creams or strips throughout the day. The implants keep the denture firmly in place without extra support.
3. Improved Jawbone Health
Dental implants help stimulate the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that often occurs with missing teeth. Traditional dentures rest on the gums and do not offer this benefit. Over time, this stimulation can preserve your natural facial structure and reduce the “sunken” appearance that sometimes accompanies tooth loss.
4. Long-Term Stability and Comfort
With proper care, implant-supported dentures are a long-lasting solution. They’re custom-fitted for each patient and designed for a snug, secure feel—minimizing the sore spots and friction that can develop with traditional dentures.
What to Expect During the Process
The journey toward a more secure and confident smile starts with a personalized consultation. Here’s a general overview of the process involved in receiving implant-supported dentures:
1. Initial Evaluation and Planning
During your first visit, our team will conduct a comprehensive oral exam, including digital imaging and assessments of your bone density and gum health. This information helps us determine whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants and allows us to create a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
2. Implant Placement
Dental implants are typically placed in the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. This step is performed with precision to ensure optimal positioning. To help you stay relaxed during this phase, our team offers comfort techniques such as local anesthesia and sedation options, depending on what is appropriate for your case.
3. Healing and Integration
After placement, the implants need time to fuse with the surrounding bone—a natural process called osseointegration. This usually takes several months and is essential for creating a strong foundation for your new denture.
4. Denture Attachment
Once the implants have fully integrated, the overdenture is attached. This denture is custom-made to match the shape, color, and bite of your natural teeth. Depending on your treatment plan, it may be removable or fixed in place.
Throughout every stage, our team works closely with each patient to ensure that expectations are met and the experience is as smooth as possible.
Is This the Right Solution for You?
Implant-supported dentures can be a life-changing solution, but they’re not ideal for everyone. Here are some of the factors that may make someone a good candidate:
- You are missing multiple teeth or a full arch of teeth.
- You are currently using traditional dentures and want a more secure option.
- Your jawbone is healthy enough to support dental implants (or you’re open to procedures like bone grafting, if needed).
- You are in good overall health and have no medical conditions that would impair healing.
- You are looking for a long-term solution that offers both function and aesthetics.
The only way to determine whether implant-supported dentures are the right choice for you is through a one-on-one consultation with our experienced team.
Take the First Step Toward a Confident Smile
If you’re tired of loose dentures or want a solution that feels closer to your natural teeth, implant-supported dentures may be just what you’ve been looking for. At Implant & Perio Center of Kansas, Dr. Marq J. Sams is here to guide you through your options and help you restore your smile with comfort and stability in mind.
Every patient’s situation is unique. That’s why we take the time to listen, evaluate your needs, and develop a plan that’s tailored specifically to you.
Ready to learn more? We invite you to schedule a consultation with our team today and take the first step toward a more secure, confident smile.