A Step-by-Step Guide to the Denture Implant Procedure

Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures are anchored directly into your jawbone using dental implants. This provides greater stability when chewing and speaking. To help you understand more, we’ll share a detailed overview of the denture implant procedure in the article below.

What exactly about the denture implant procedure?

The denture implant procedure is a medical device that replaces an entire set of teeth on a single arch at once. But instead of resting on top of the gums, a denture implant attaches directly to the jawbone using dental implants. Dental implants are small, threaded posts that serve as replacements for lost tooth roots.

Once implanted into the bone, they require about 3-6 months to heal (a process called osseointegration). Implant-supported dentures offer enhanced stability, preventing slippage during chewing, eating, and speaking.

Who is a candidate for implant-supported dentures?

A dentist may suggest implant-supported dentures if a patient has severe damage or complete tooth loss on an arch. However, patients missing multiple teeth in non-continuous areas can opt for implant-supported partial dentures. Naturally, the dentist will advise on the best option for the patient’s current condition.

The requirement for implant-supported dentures is that the patient must have sufficient jawbone density to support the dental implants. In many cases where there isn’t enough bone, bone graft surgery may be necessary to increase the volume in the affected area.

The Details of the denture implant procedure

The process of creating implant-supported dentures requires several steps, and the specifics of denture implants depend on each patient’s condition.

Pre-Prosthetic Surgery

Before placing dental implants, the dentist will extract any damaged or decayed teeth. At this stage, they will also advise on and perform bone grafting in any areas where the patient has lost jawbone density. Depending on the healing progress, patients may need to wait about 2-4 months before the implants can be placed.

The dentist will provide temporary dentures for the patient to wear during this recovery period.

Implant placement

Trong quá trình này, the dentist surgically titanium post placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once inserted, the implant undergoes a healing process called osseointegration, where it fuses with the bone over several months, creating a stable foundation for dentures.

The patient will wear the temporary denture while waiting for the implants to integrate.

Dental Impressions

After the dental implants have healed, the dentist will take impressions of the upper or lower jaw (or both) using traditional or digital methods. These impressions are then sent to a dental lab, where technicians can start crafting the new dentures for the patient.

Denture Placement

Once the permanent dentures are completed by the lab, the dentist will attach the custom-fitted dentures to the implants, ensuring the patient feels comfortable when chewing, eating, and speaking. The dentist will also provide instructions on proper oral hygiene and schedule regular checkups for ongoing oral health maintenance.

The Dentures Fabrication Process

After the dental clinic sends the impressions for the implant-supported dentures, the dental lab will begin the fabrication process. The denture creation process involves the following steps:

Creating a Denture Prototype: Before crafting the final denture, technicians at the dental lab may create a wax model to check the fit and shape of the denture.

Final Denture Fabrication: Once the dentist and patient are satisfied with the fit and appearance, the dental lab technician will create the final denture using high-quality dental materials that are durable and resemble natural teeth.

Adjustment Phase: After the final denture is completed, it is sent to the dental clinic. The dentist will attach it to the dental implants, carefully checking the bite and fit to ensure comfort and confidence for the patient in daily activities.

Do implant-supported dentures come out?

There are fixed and removable options for implant-supported dentures. The treatment method choice depends on factors such as jawbone health, medical history, and the patient’s preferences.

Removable implant-supported dentures

Removable implant-supported dentures are a type of denture that attaches securely to dental implants in the jaw but can be taken out by the patient for cleaning and maintenance. Unlike traditional removable dentures that rest on the gums, the denture implant procedure is anchored to implants, providing greater stability and comfort.

These dentures typically involve a snap-on or locator attachment system, where the denture securely “snaps” onto the implants. This prevents the denture from slipping while eating or speaking, yet it remains easy to remove as needed.

Fixed implant-supported dentures

A fixed denture (also called a hybrid denture) is attached permanently to a dental implant in the jawbone, offering a more stable and natural-feeling solution for patients who have lost multiple or all teeth. Unlike the removable option, the patient cannot remove fixed implant-supported dentures, which function like natural teeth. It is typically secured with 4-6 implant posts per arch, depending on the jawbone density and treatment.

The Benefits and Risks of Denture Implant Procedure

The benefit of denture implants

Implant-supported dentures offer several advantages, here are some key:

Enhanced stability: Implant-supported dentures are securely anchored to dental implants, preventing slipping or movement while eating, chewing, or speaking

Bone preservation: Implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to prevent bone loss that typically occurs after tooth loss. This helps maintain jaw structure and prevents a sunken facial appearance.

Natural Appearance: Implant-supported dentures are designed to resemble natural teeth, both in terms of appearance and functionality, improving confidence and aesthetics.

Long-Term Durability: With proper care, dental implants and implant-supported dentures are durable and can last for many years, offering a long-term solution.

The risks of denture implant procedure

Although Implant-supported dentures bring many benefits, they still have some risks, possible complications include:

• Infection
• Nerve damage
• Injury to your mouth
• Sinus perforation

Cost of the denture implant procedure

The cost of implant-supported dentures can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, the number of implants required, the complexity of the procedure, and the materials used. 

A single arch of implant-supported dentures: The total cost can range between $3,000 to $30,000 or more, depending on the number of implants and the materials used.

Full-mouth implant-supported dentures: The cost could range from $6,000 to $60,000 or more for both upper and lower arches.

• Maybe you are interested in this article: Average Price for a Dental Implant

In Summary

Tooth loss can negatively impact your quality of life, and replacing missing teeth can help restore your confidence. Denture implant procedure replaces lost teeth, restoring oral health and function for a lasting, beautiful smile.

VTA Dental Lab is proud to be a trusted partner, always supporting dental clinics with high-quality products and professional services. With a team of skilled technicians and advanced technology, we are committed to helping dental clinics improve treatment quality and customer satisfaction. Let VTA Dental Lab be your reliable companion on the journey to better oral health!