What Are Implant Dentures?

When you are suffering from tooth loss, dentures are the most common remedy. Although there are other treatments to replace missing teeth such as dental implants, implants require complex surgery that dentures do not. According to statistics, 3 percent of Americans ages 18 to 34 wear dentures, 29 percent of Americans ages 45 to 55 wear dentures, and 57 percent of Americans ages 65 to 74 wear some form of dentures. Traditional dentures have certain drawbacks that implant dentures can remedy. What are implant dentures?  

Traditional Dentures

Dentures consist of prosthetic teeth attached to a base colored to mimic or blend with your gingival tissue. They are typically secured by natural suction or denture adhesives. Dentures can restore your smile, self-confidence, and your ability to eat a variety of healthy foods. However, traditional dentures have their drawbacks. Such drawbacks include:

• Wearing down of the ridges of your jaw due to friction
• Atrophy of the underlying jawbone
• Looseness due to the above reasons
• Slippage
• They require realignment and readjustments

Implant-Retained Dentures

In order to avoid some of the aforementioned problems, traditional dentures can be stabilized by securing them with mini-implants. This eliminates the need for adhesives and prevents slippage while talking or eating. Mini implants are placed the same as conventional dental implants and provide a strong durable support system.  The only difference is the size.  While the diameter of conventional implants is 3mm or larger, the diameter of mini-implants is about half that. Once the mini-implants are placed (anchored into the teeth sockets), and healed (osseointegrated–the bone and titanium post grow together), the dentures are snapped onto the mini titanium posts providing strong, stable, and long-lasting support.

About Your Reno Dentists

Dr. William Wager, Dr. Brian Evans, and our highly experienced team at Wager Evans Dental are devoted to our patients and their families, and dedicated to providing first-rate dental care in a comfortable, inviting environment. Located in Reno, we proudly welcome residents from Spanish Springs, Sparks, Incline Village, Dayton, Fernley, and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation or your next dental appointment, visit our office, or contact us today by calling (775) 800-4845.