How Long Do Implant Retained Dentures Last?
If you are missing a significant number of teeth on one or both arches, you may be considering a denture. Implant retained dentures are a great option for patients who want to maintain their bone health as well as have an aesthetically pleasing smile!
Implants can be used to support a full denture as in the case of implant retained dentures. Sometimes called a clip on denture, an implant retained denture works just like a traditional denture but uses implants to stay in place instead of adhesion and suction. There are few limitations for patients with a denture and that is no different with an implant retained denture.
Dentures that are held in place with implants are significantly more sturdy than traditional dentures and often can last much longer. While everyone is a candidate for a traditional denture, not everyone is eligible for dental implants. Implant surgery is invasive and takes a while to heal, but for patients who can undergo the surgery and tolerate the healing time, the advantages of an implant retained denture far outweigh the inconveniences of implant surgery.
Placing Dental Implants
Having dental implants placed is a healthier option for your mouth. Dental implants stimulate bone regeneration and can help keep jaw bone structure from deteriorating. Without the stimulation of tooth roots, the jaw bone can deteriorate and actually change the structure of your mouth. This can lead to an ill-fitting traditional denture which would need to be adjusted and eventually replaced.
An implant retained denture, however, will keep the jaw bone healthy and allow you to keep the same denture for much longer. Implant surgery is a bit of a process but for patients healthy enough, it is the better option.
Your oral surgeon will place four to six, or in some cases, even eight dental implants into the upper and/or lower jaw and place a temporary abutment over them to protect them during healing. You will be allowed to heal for up to six months which allows for proper integration with the jaw bone. During this healing time, you will be wearing a temporary denture so that you can eat and speak normally.
Around each implant, a nylon ring will be fitted, and this is what allows the denture to be snapped in and out of your mouth. These rings will wear out and need to be replaced every 1 to 5 years.
Longevity of Implant Retained Dentures
Though you may already have a traditional denture, it is important to have a new denture fabricated specifically for an implant retained prosthesis. This will ensure a perfect fit for a long time.
The actual implant can last a lifetime but your denture may need to be replaced every 15 to 20 years. This is due to regular wear and tear on the teeth.
To make sure that you get the most out of your implant retained denture, it is crucial that you maintain a regular routine with your dental office for maintenance and check ups. At these appointments, your hygienist will remove your denture and clean your implants and once a year will take an x-ray of the implants to make sure that everything is healthy.