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Missing teeth can make everyday tasks like eating and speaking frustrating, and traditional dentures often fall short when it comes to stability and comfort. Implant-supported dentures offer a modern solution that feels more natural, preserves jawbone health, and restores confidence in your smile.
At AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, we help patients regain function and comfort with advanced implant-supported denture options tailored to their needs.
Table of Contents
- What is an Implant-Supported Denture?
- Traditional Dentures vs. Implant-Supported Dentures
- Types of Implant Denture Solutions
- The Parts of an Implant Denture
- Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures
- Are You a Candidate?
- Schedule Your Implant Denture Consultation
- FAQs
What is an Implant-Supported Denture?
Implant-supported dentures are full-arch prosthetics that are anchored to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone.
Unlike conventional dentures that rest directly on the gums, these dentures gain their stability and strength from implants that integrate with the bone. This integration helps keep the denture in place, improves chewing and speaking function, and prevents bone loss that typically occurs with traditional dentures.
Traditional Dentures vs. Implant-Supported Dentures
When deciding between conventional dentures and implant-supported ones, it helps to compare how each works in everyday life.
| Feature | Traditional Denture | Implant-Supported Denture |
| Retention | Held in place by suction or adhesive | Anchored to implants in the jaw |
| Chewing & Speech | May slip, less efficient chewing | Secure, more natural function |
| Bone Health | No stimulation which leads to gradual bone loss | Preserves bone through implant load |
| Comfort | May rub or loosen over time | Stays secure, less irritation |
| Care | Remove nightly, adhesives often needed | Fixed or removable depending on design |
| Longevity | Requires frequent relines/replacement | Implants can last for decades; the denture itself will require periodic maintenance. |
Types of Implant Denture Solutions
Not all implant dentures are the same. They differ in how they are held in place and whether they are removable or fixed.
Implant-Retained Overdenture (Removable “Snap-On”)
This option attaches to implants through small connectors, giving dentures a stable “snap” fit. It’s removable for cleaning, but more secure than a traditional plate.
Common attachment styles include:
- Locator attachments: A low-profile system with a metal housing and a nylon insert that snaps onto the implant abutment. Locators are popular because they provide strong retention, are easy to replace if worn, and allow for some rotation, which reduces stress on the implants.
- Ball attachments: A ball-shaped abutment fits into a socket inside the denture, working like a ball-and-socket joint. This design is simple, durable, and provides reliable stability, especially for lower dentures.
- Bar-clip systems: A rigid bar connects multiple implants, and the denture clips onto the bar for added strength and reduced movement.
These designs give patients improved stability while keeping maintenance straightforward.
Implant-Supported Fixed Bridge (All-on-4/All-on-X)
For patients who want a solution that doesn’t come out, a All-on-4/All-on-X offers the closest experience to natural teeth. The denture is screwed to four or more implants and remains in place at all times. Patients clean it like natural teeth with flossing tools and water flossers.
The Parts of an Implant Denture
These components are what give implant dentures their strength and stability.
- Implants: Titanium posts placed in the bone that act like tooth roots.
- Abutments: Connectors placed on top of implants to secure the denture or bridge.
- Attachments: The “snapping” or connecting mechanisms, such as Locator, ball, or bar systems.
- Prosthesis/framework: The denture teeth set in acrylic or ceramic, sometimes reinforced with metal.
- Small parts and inserts: Replaceable nylon rings, clips, or screws that keep retention secure.
Each of these parts plays a role in ensuring the denture remains stable, functional, and serviceable over time.
Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures
Patients who transition from traditional dentures to implant-supported ones often notice:
- Greater confidence in speaking and eating
- More secure fit with less worry about slipping
- Preservation of jawbone and facial shape
- Improved long-term comfort and satisfaction
These advantages make implant-supported dentures an appealing solution for many people seeking full-arch tooth replacement.
Are You a Candidate?
Not everyone is immediately ready for implant-supported dentures. Your oral surgeon will consider:
- Bone density and available volume
- Overall health and any medical conditions
- Oral hygiene habits
- Personal preferences, such as whether you want a removable or fixed option
In some cases, additional procedures like bone grafting may be recommended to create the best foundation for implants.
Schedule Your Implant Denture Consultation
Implant-supported dentures are a secure, long-term alternative to traditional dentures, offering stability, comfort, and protection against bone loss. Our team at AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons will help you determine the best option for your needs, whether you prefer a removable overdenture or a fixed full-arch solution.
Schedule a consultation today and let our experienced oral surgeons in Mesa, North Mesa, Tempe, Queen Creek, and Show Low, help you protect your oral health.
To book an appointment at any one of our locations, call or text (480) 830-5866.
FAQs
Implant-retained dentures use implants mainly for retention, while support still comes from the gums. Implant-supported dentures transfer most of the bite force to implants, reducing pressure on the gums.
The number of implants depends on whether you are replacing an upper or lower arch and if you want a removable or fixed option.
Yes, implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to preserve its volume and shape over time.
Yes, patients usually find them much more secure and natural-feeling compared to traditional dentures.
AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons provides implant-supported dentures at our offices in Mesa, North Mesa, Tempe, Queen Creek, and Show Low. Call or text (480) 830-5866 to schedule a consultation at the location most convenient for you.
