Dr. Burton Melton offers implant-supported dentures to replacing your missing teeth. Implant-supported dentures are not your typical denture. They fit into your mouth differently and offer the benefits of both dentures and dental implants. Traditional dentures sit on top of the gums, often causing bone deterioration. They also leave extra space that leads to complications. The complications include a loose fit and slipping or clicking sounds when eating, drinking or talking.
What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?
Implant-supported dentures are dentures that are attached to dental implants, which are surgically placed into the jawbone. They are most often used in the lower jaw because removable dentures used in the lower jaw are more unstable. Implant-supported dentures can also be used in the upper jaw.
This type of denture is snapped into place after the dental implants have been surgically placed. The dental implants are fixed, creating a secure fit and hold. Implant-supported dentures will not require messy pastes or adhesives to stay in place. Usually they are designed to be removable for regular cleaning, however fixed implant-supported dentures are available.
Types of Implant-Supported Dentures in Albuquerque, New Mexico
Bar-Retained Dentures
Bar-retained dentures require three or more implants, with metal bars that run along the gum line between each implant. Your dentures will then rest on these bars and attach with metal clips.
Ball-Retained Dentures
Ball-retained dentures, also called stud-attached dentures, function like a ball and socket. The balls are on the end of the dentures, and the sockets are on the underside of the dentures. The two line up and snap together, creating the most secure fit of the implant-supported denture options.
If you are looking into implant-supported dentures, Dr. Burton Melton is here to help you. Call Implant Dentistry of the Southwest today at 505-883-7744 to make an appointment with our prosthodontist.