Implant Supported Dentures
Implant supported dentures are an alternative to traditional dentures that Dr. Ryan Estes often recommends to our patients. Implant supported dentures in Florence & Highland Heights, KY have a secure fit, so there is no concern for a loose fit or slipping. This also means that there are no messy pastes or adhesives required to hold them in place.
Dental implants also help prevent bone loss by stimulating the jaw bone. Traditional dentures in Florence & Highland Heights, KY sit on top of the gums, which can be uncomfortable and do nothing to slow down bone deterioration that begins as soon as a tooth is lost.
Implant supported dentures are fixed into the mouth using dental implants. They are most common in the lower jaw where traditional dentures are more unstable, but can be used in the upper and lower jaw.
There are two kinds of implant supported dentures: bar retained and ball retained.
Bar retained dentures rely on three or more dental implants, which are placed directly into the jaw bone. The implants are used to connect metal bars that Dr. Ryan Estes will run along the gum line. The denture is anchored into the mouth using the metal bar and clips to hold them in place.
Ball retained dentures rely on a ball and socket mechanism. Dental implants are placed with a steel stud on the exposed end above the gum line. The implants have a ball like structure at the top. The denture will have sockets on the side facing the gums that line up with the “balls” on the implants. The denture snaps into place, creating an extremely secure fit. This type of implant supported denture also allows for an open palate denture.
If you are interested in an alternative to traditional dentures or would like to know more about implant supported dentures in Florence & Highland Heights, KY, we can help. Call Dr. Ryan Estes today to schedule your examination!
