Implant Retained Dentures for Chicago, Evanston and Winnetka
Replacing missing teeth with implant retained dentures
Usually, when you lose a tooth, it is best for your oral health to have it replaced. Missing teeth can affect your bite as well as your ability to speak and chew. The loss of your teeth can increase the burden on your remaining teeth and can cause muscle pain in your jaw and headaches. And of course, losing a tooth can affect your appearance. The following information reviews the benefits of replacing missing teeth with implant dentures in Chicago, and for Evanston and Winnetka.
What if I’m missing all of my lower teeth?
Although many patients have no problems wearing an upper denture, some people find it difficult to wear and eat with lower dentures. Several implant-supported replacement options are available if you are missing all of your lower teeth.
Ball Attachment Denture
One option is to have two implants placed in your lower jaw, and a denture made that snaps onto these implants. This option allows your lower denture to be more stable while chewing that without implants. However, there will still be movement in the lower denture, and sore spots will occur if any food particles, especially seeds, are caught under it. As will all removable replacement teeth, you will still need periodic appointments with your dentist in Chicago, and for Evanston and Winnetka for denture adjustment.
1. Before
2. Implants Placed
3. Denture Attached
Bar Attachment Denture
Another option involves placing four to six implants, depending on your jaw size and shape, into your lower jaw. After healing is complete, the implants are connected with a custom-made support bar. Your denture will be made with special internal retention clips that attach to the support bar, enabling the denture to snap firmly into place. This is called an “overdenture.” The advantage of this option is that it is much more stable than the first options and allows minimal denture movement. Your denture is still removable for easy cleaning and maintenance.
1. Before
2. Implants Placed
3. Denture Attached
Screw Retained Denture
A third option involves placing five or more implants in your jaw and attaching a permanent denture. Your denture is held in place by screws or clasps that secure it to the support posts or bar. It doesn’t touch the gum tissue, which allows you to clean under your denture without removing it. This denture will replace all your missing lower teeth and will not be removed except at maintenance visits with your holistic dentist in Chicago, and for Evanston and Winnetka. Although cleaning under your denture without removing it is more time-consuming and requires more dexterity, many patients who want a permanent denture prefer this option.
1. Before
2. Implants Placed
3. Denture Attached
What If I’m Missing All Of My Upper Teeth?
A similar range of treatment options is also available for your upper jaw. However, because the bone is not as hard as that in the lower jaw, people often need more implants to support their new replacement teeth.
Implant Retained Upper Denture
Depending on the number of implants to be placed, it may be possible to eliminate the need for covering the roof of your mouth with a complete denture. This option allows you to taste your food fully and gives you a better sense of its temperature. Your denture will feel more natural. You will still have a removable denture, which makes cleaning the support bar and denture much easier.
Implant benefits
- Improved confidence
- Stability during eating
- Bone and gum preservation
- Improved dental hygiene
- Superior esthetics
- Nutritional benefits
Make an appointment with our dentist today to discuss your options for implant-retained dentures.