Implant-Retained Dentures – State College, PA

Achieve a Long-Term Solution to Severe Tooth Loss

If you’ve had a denture for a long time, you already know that there are some inconveniences it can cause, especially if you are missing all of your teeth. It is true that dentures can replace all teeth relatively quickly, but they aren’t ideal for everyone. If this sounds like you, implant-retained dentures may be a more appropriate solution! Whether you need to replace your full or partial denture, you’re sure to love the results! Call our office today to schedule your next consultation with Dr. Chris Devlin.

How Do Implant-Retained Dentures Work?

A diagram of an implant-retained denture in Stage College.

Instead of relying on the overall shape of your mouth, denture adhesive, or metal hooks to stay in place, implant-retained dentures attach to a series of implants that are strategically placed throughout the mouth. Each implant works to maximize the amount of bone tissue you currently have in your jaw, ensuring a lasting bond that stays secure for many decades. Once the implants are placed and given time to heal, we’ll have a permanent denture prepared and ready for fitting. Depending on your needs, the denture can be fixed or removable. We’ll go over your specific needs in greater detail before beginning treatment.

Am I A Candidate for Implant-Retained Dentures?

An older man biting into an apple.

Whether you are replacing a single tooth or all the teeth in your smile, it is essential that you have good oral health, healthy gum tissue, and sufficient bone volume so there’s enough room for the implants to integrate. During your consultation, Dr. Devlin will be able to confirm if you are eligible for treatment or if you need additional bone grafting/sinus lifts to successfully complete the procedure. The good news is more people are capable of completing treatment than ever before thanks to advancements in dental implant technology. Once we confirm your eligibility, we’ll get you scheduled for your surgery.

The Implant-Retained Dentures Procedure

An older woman at her dental appointment.

In some cases, teeth that are no longer viable in the jaw will have to be removed. If this instance, a series of extractions will be scheduled the same day as your implant surgery. The sooner an implant is placed inside of an open socket following an extraction, the better. Depending on the size of your denture, we may place anywhere between four to six implants, then close your gum tissue over them so they have time to heal. Once four to six months have passed, we can place the abutments, which act as foundations for your future prosthetic. After an additional few weeks of healing, your final denture will be placed on top.

Benefits Of Combining Dentures & Dental Implants

An implant-retained denture.

There are many benefits that accompany implant-retained dentures, including:

  • Longer-lasting tooth replacements (30 years to life)
  • A stable and more reliable denture
  • Improved biting force and reduced breakdown of natural bone tissue
  • A confident and natural-looking smile
  • Easier speech and at-home maintenance
  • Lower costs on denture replacements