A New Solution for a Standard Prosthetic: Implant Supported Dentures

The first and foremost complaint that patients have when it comes to wearing dentures is the way they feel. Even though they’re custom created just for you, you may feel as though they don’t truly “fit”. For some patients, that problem can be especially noticeable in the way they initially impact speech and chewing.  Many of my patients have also described the instability of their dentures and subsequent worry that they’ll slip out of place—or even out of the mouth—when they eat, speak or smile.  It can create an embarrassing and problematic situation that my patients understandably dread.  It’s no wonder that many folks associate dentures with discomfort, embarrassment and extra maintenance, even in the face of the alterative, which is a lack of teeth. .  Part of the information I want to share with you--especially those of you who are unhappy with your conventional dentures or facing the prospect of needing them-- is that dentures can be just as beautiful, advanced and effective as other modern dental prosthetics.  Let me explain more about a unique type of denture that eliminates many of the common frustrations and discomforts that are so often associated with this prosthetic.

Implant supported dentures are different from standard dentures in many ways.  While they’re very much like standard dentures on the surface, the real difference is found in what’s beneath.  Using the same method for placing individual dental implants, your dentures can be given a more secure, real-feel.  The denture can still be removed for cleaning and comfort as needed, but rather than simply resting on the surface of the gum with adhesive, they’re securely and comfortably snapped into place—securely held by implants that are directly within your jawbone. Overall, my patients who have decided to go ahead with implant supported dentures instead of standard options have adjusted to them faster and avoided the instability that creates many of the frustrations and discomforts I mentioned.

Like dental implants, implant supported dentures do require a surgical procedure and healing period.  Whether or not they’ll be a successful option for you is something I’m more than happy to help you determine.  Even if you decided to forgo implant supported dentures in favor of a conventional prosthetic, I’m here to ensure that you’re comfortable, happy and smiling when you see and feel the end result!

- Dr. Matthew Church, D.D.S

Washington Street Dentistry