Implant-Supported Dentures in Vancouver, WA
Implant-supported dentures offer a stable and long-lasting option for individuals seeking full-mouth tooth replacement. At Advanced Denture & Implant in Vancouver, WA, this service combines the function of traditional dentures with the security of dental implants to create a dependable and natural-feeling solution.
Unlike removable dentures that rest on the gums, implant-supported dentures are anchored to titanium implants surgically placed in the jawbone. These implants act as artificial tooth roots, supporting the denture and distributing bite pressure evenly across the jaw. This design minimizes slipping, increases chewing efficiency, and preserves jawbone structure.
This treatment is often selected by patients who have lost all or most of their teeth in the upper or lower jaw and want greater stability than conventional dentures can provide.
How Implant-Supported Dentures Work
The process begins with a full dental evaluation, including imaging scans to assess bone quality and structure. Candidates must have enough bone density to support dental implants, or they may require bone grafting before placement.
Typically, four to six dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone in each arch. After the implants are positioned, a healing period of several months allows them to fuse with the surrounding bone in a process called osseointegration.
Once healing is complete, a custom denture is securely attached to the implants. This can be a fixed (non-removable) or removable overdenture, depending on the patient's preference and oral health condition. Both types offer significant improvements in comfort and stability over traditional dentures.
Fixed vs. Removable Implant Dentures
At Advanced Denture & Implant in Vancouver, WA, patients may choose between two main types of implant-supported dentures:
- Fixed Implant Dentures: Also known as hybrid dentures, these are permanently attached to the implants and can only be removed by a dental professional. They offer the closest experience to natural teeth and are ideal for those who want a non-removable solution.
- Removable Implant Dentures (Overdentures): These snap onto attachments on the implants and can be removed for cleaning. They offer improved stability while maintaining the flexibility of removal.
The decision between fixed and removable dentures is made during the consultation phase, taking into account the patient’s anatomy, lifestyle, and preferences.
Advantages of Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures provide superior retention and functionality when compared to traditional full dentures. Patients experience better chewing ability, clearer speech, and improved confidence in social settings. The stability of the denture eliminates the need for adhesives and reduces the risk of denture-related sores.
In addition, dental implants help prevent the bone loss that naturally occurs after tooth loss. By stimulating the jawbone through daily use, implants help preserve facial structure and maintain long-term oral health.
This solution is particularly beneficial for patients who have struggled with loose or ill-fitting dentures and want a more secure, permanent alternative.
Who Is a Candidate for Implant Dentures?
Ideal candidates for implant-supported dentures are individuals who have lost most or all of their teeth and want a more stable and lasting solution than removable dentures. Factors that affect eligibility include:
- Adequate bone density in the jaw
- Good overall health for surgical procedures
- Commitment to oral hygiene and follow-up care
- Non-smoking or willingness to stop smoking before and after surgery
Those who have been wearing traditional dentures for many years may still qualify for implants, although additional procedures such as bone grafting may be required. A thorough consultation at Advanced Denture & Implant
determines the most suitable treatment plan based on each patient’s needs.
For patients seeking a secure and lasting alternative to removable dentures, implant-supported dentures at Advanced Denture & Implant in Vancouver, WA offer a reliable solution. Schedule a consultation to learn how dental implants can restore both the function and appearance of your smile.
