Dental Implants

Overdentures

Traditional dentures can cause many problems.  Often times, denture wearers have a limited ability to eat a diet other than soft, refined/processed foods which are usually high in fat and carbohydrates, and low in protein and dietary fiber.  This type of diet can lead to health risks like obesity, diabetes, stomach and intestinal disorders, and many forms of heart disease.  Dentures can also cause a decrease in the enjoyment of the taste of food, and can adversely alter the feel of food in the mouth. Furthermore, many denture wearers are self-conscious because their teeth move or shift while eating, speaking or singing.  This can lower self-esteem, ruin social encounters and lead to withdrawal, isolation and depression. In summary, many denture wearers suffer with pain, instability and poor function of their denture, which can lead to insecurity and a diminished quality of life. 

In today’s world, dental implants can easily be used to assist in the retention of removable dentures with the use of snaps, clips or other locking mechanisms.  Implants with attachments greatly improve a denture’s function, comfort, stability and retention. 

In a small percentage of patients, a well-made conventional denture can serve as an effective method of tooth replacement.  In these situations, however, bone deterioration or ridge atrophy continually occurs underneath the denture, constantly changing the denture’s fit.  Implant placement prevents this ridge atropy from occurring, stopping the loss of bone.

So, the field of removable dentures has been revolutionized by dental implants.  In the lower jaw, 2 to 4 implants are used to anchor lower dentures.  Even patients with advanced bone deterioration are typically still good candidates for this treatment.  Generally, the more implants used, the more secure and stable the denture will be.

In the upper jaw, it is often possible to make a “horseshoe” shaped denture, eliminating the plastic covering the roof of the mouth, with the placement of 4 to 6 implants that are spread out to improve retention.  Patients experience better taste sensation and can avoid the gag reflex.  They also gain a security and satisfaction in hearing a “snap” when these overdentures are seated on the implant anchors.

With the aid of mini dental implants, or traditional dental implants, Dr. Gouldin, his staff and your restorative dentist can likely improve your denture experience dramatically. Please contact us if you suffer from any of the above conditions – we will likely be able to help!