Implant-Supported Dentures

Traditional removable dentures have served patients well for generations, but they do have real limitations. They can shift during eating and speaking, require adhesives to stay in place, and over time the fit can loosen as the jawbone changes shape without the stimulation of natural tooth roots. Implant-supported dentures offer a different and significantly more stable experience. At Creating Beautiful Smiles in Racine, WI, Dr. Palmer and Dr. Smalkoski offer implant-supported dentures for patients who are missing all or most of their teeth in an arch and want a prosthetic that stays firmly in place. As the name suggests, implant-supported dentures are attached to dental implants that are placed in the jawbone. Depending on the design, the denture may snap onto the implants, allowing you to remove it for cleaning, or it may be permanently fixed to the implants and only removable by a dentist. The implants act as stable anchors that hold the denture in place during all activities, including eating and speaking. Because the implants replace tooth roots, they also help maintain the underlying jawbone, which slows the bone loss that typically occurs after teeth are removed. This is something traditional dentures cannot do. Patients who choose implant-supported dentures consistently report a significant improvement in confidence and comfort compared to conventional dentures. They eat a wider variety of foods, speak more clearly, and feel less self-conscious. If you have been struggling with conventional dentures or are exploring your options after losing teeth, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at our Racine, WI office to learn whether implant-supported dentures are right for you.

The process of getting implant-supported dentures at Creating Beautiful Smiles begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health and bone structure. Digital X-rays and a cone beam CT scan help our team assess the amount and density of bone available to support the implants. The number of implants needed depends on the type of denture being used and your specific anatomy, but typically ranges from two to six implants per arch. Any remaining teeth that need to be removed will be extracted, and if necessary, a period of healing will be allowed before implant placement. During the implant surgery, local anesthesia ensures your comfort. The titanium implant posts are precisely placed in the jawbone, and the surgical sites are sutured. You may receive a temporary prosthetic during the healing period so you are not without teeth. Over the following months, the implants integrate with the jawbone. Once integration is confirmed, the implant abutments are placed and impressions are taken to design your final denture. The denture is fabricated to fit precisely over the abutments and provide a secure, comfortable connection. At the delivery appointment, the denture is attached and your bite is adjusted. Our team will walk you through how to care for your implant-supported denture, including how to clean around the implants and beneath the denture if it is removable. Follow-up visits allow us to monitor the health of the implants and tissue and ensure everything continues to function well. With proper care, implant-supported dentures can provide many years of stable, comfortable use.