Transform Your
Smile with
Implant-Supported Dentures in Atwell & Cockburn

Implant-supported dentures offer several key benefits over traditional dentures. Here’s a breakdown of their advantages:

• Natural look and feel.
  Implant-supported dentures are intended to resemble natural teeth closely. Their firm anchoring to the jawbone means they feel more natural in your mouth, significantly improving your comfort and confidence.
• Improved speech, smile, and chew ability.
  Since these dentures are securely attached to your jawbone, they make speaking, smiling, and chewing much easier and more natural. You won’t have to worry about the removable dentures slipping or shifting, which is often a concern with traditional dentures.
• Better restoration of chewing and biting.
  Implants enhance bite functionality, allowing patients to enjoy various foods. This benefit is crucial for maintaining a balanced diet and enjoying one’s favourite meals without restrictions.
• Preventing bone loss.
  One of the most significant benefits of implant-supported dentures is their ability to prevent deterioration of jawbone tissue and gum damage. The implants act like natural tooth roots, stimulating the jawbone and maintaining density. This is crucial for preserving the structural integrity of the face and jaw.
• Durability.
  Compared to other dental treatments, implant-supported dentures last much longer. The implants can last long with proper care, while the denture component may need replacement every 10 to 20 years.
• Ease of maintenance.
  Caring for implant-supported dentures is similar to caring for natural teeth, including regular brushing. Maintenance is also simple for fixed dentures, but specific cleaning tools are required.
• Stability.
  Unlike standard dentures, which can slip and cause discomfort, implant-supported dentures are firmly attached to the dental implants, which are securely placed into the jawbone. Thus, they offer better stability during everyday activities like eating and talking.

Together, these benefits significantly improve the quality of life for individuals who opt for implant-supported dentures. They restore teeth’ functionality and positively affect oral health and appearance.

Understanding the difference between implant-supported dentures vs traditional dentures can help you make the right decision about which can suit your needs. The following list below shows some of the key differences between these two well-known dental restorations:

• Attachment and support.
  Traditional dentures rest on the gums and aren’t attached to the jawbone. Hence, they are more prone to moving around in the mouth, which can lead to challenges like difficulty eating, mouth sores, and discomfort. On the other hand, implant-supported dentures are anchored directly into the jawbone through dental implants; thus, they are stable and secure. This stability means they won’t move around when you’re eating or talking and will function more like natural teeth​​​​.
• Bone stimulation.
  One of the significant drawbacks of traditional dentures is that they don’t stimulate the jawbone, gradually leading to bone loss. This can result in a sunken facial appearance. Implant-supported dentures, however, have titanium screws that replace tooth roots and help maintain jawbone density, preventing bone deterioration and preserving the natural shape of your face​​​​.
• Comfort and fit.
  Traditional dentures can often cause gum and cheek irritation, leading to problems like difficulty eating and speech. Implant-supported dentures are generally more comfortable, as they cover less of the palate and are less likely to irritate. They also improve speaking capabilities and are more unobtrusive-looking​​.
• Durability and maintenance.
  Traditional acrylic dentures generally last about five to ten years with proper care. Overdentures, however, are more durable and don’t require frequent replacements. They may last approximately ten to twenty years and are easier to maintain. Additionally, they don’t wear away the jawbone over time like traditional dentures​​​​.
• Denture type and versatility.
  Implant-supported dentures can be either removable or securely attached, providing flexibility based on individual needs and preferences. Conventional dentures are generally non-removable.

The procedure for getting implant-supported dentures involves several detailed steps and can take several weeks or months, depending on individual needs and healing times. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:

• Initial assessment.
  The process begins with assessing your dental health to determine whether you are suitable for implant-supported overdentures. This includes reviewing your dental and medical history and conducting necessary imaging tests, like X-rays.
• Pre-prosthetic surgery.
  If you have any decayed or damaged teeth, they must be extracted. Some individuals may require bone grafting to enhance areas where you’ve lost jawbone density. The procedure focuses on establishing sufficient bone density to support the implants. You may need a few months to recover during this phase, and temporary dentures may be necessary to protect the area.
• Implant surgery.
  This step involves placing the dental implants into your jawbone. After the oral surgery, a period of osseointegration occurs, where the implants bond with the bone. This healing process can take two to six months.
• Abutments Installation.
  Depending on the specific procedure, you may need a second surgery to uncover the implants and add extensions, known as abutments. These pieces connect the dental implant posts to the false teeth. In some cases, this step may not be necessary if the implants already have extensions attached.
• Dental impressions.
  Once the implants have healed, your dentist will take impressions of your upper and lower dental arches.
• Fabrication of the dental prosthetic.
  After getting your dental impressions, your dentist will send them to the dental laboratory to custom-make your implant-supported dentures.
• Fitting of the implant-supported dentures.
  You will visit your dentist for the fitting of the dentures. They will check if they fit your mouth properly and make necessary adjustments. Once done, you will receive your final implant-supported dentures.

Throughout the process, regular check-ins with your dentist are crucial for monitoring healing and making necessary adjustments. If you’re considering teeth implants, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment at Atwell Smiles Dental. One of the consulting dentists on our team will work closely with you and discuss the dental implant surgery further.

The placement of implants generally involves minimal discomfort for most individuals. This is mainly due to local anaesthesia during treatment, which numbs the area and minimises discomfort. The latest advances in restorative dentistry also enhance the tooth implant procedure, making it relatively less invasive.

If you have additional concerns, discussing them with your trusted dentist can provide clarity. At Atwell Smiles Dental, we take extra steps to provide a beneficial and pleasant experience for all our patients.

The average timeline of the entire process of implant-supported dentures is approximately three to six months to a year to complete. This period encompasses several phases, each essential for the success of tooth implant restoration:

• Consultations with the dentist
• Dental implant placement
• Implant abutment placement
• Dental impressions
• Denture placement
• Follow-up appointments

While the timeline for getting implant-supported dentures may seem extensive, it’s important to remember that this process is a worthwhile investment in your dental health and overall quality of life. Every step, from pre-prosthetic surgery to the final placement of the overdentures, is essential for achieving a successful outcome and long-term benefits with your new smile.

Furthermore, your skilled dentist at Atwell Smiles Dental will be there to guide you through each stage, providing advice and support. Our team will keep you informed and comfortable throughout the process, facilitating a smooth experience.

Yes, you can eat normally with implant-supported dentures. Once the dental implants have healed and your dentist attaches the final dentures, you can enjoy all your favourite foods without worry. This is a significant advantage of implant-supported dentures vs traditional dentures, as they can stay firmly in place, providing a stable and secure base for eating. This stability allows you to eat foods that might be challenging or impossible with traditional dentures​​​​.

Overdentures are customised to copy the function of natural teeth. Considering their location underneath your gums, they provide a strong bite force and are less likely to slip while eating. They enhance your ability to chew a wide array of foods, including those that require forceful biting and chewing.

However, it’s wise to exercise caution while eating certain hard or overly sticky foods. Although implant-supported dentures offer strong stability for forceful chewing and biting, being mindful can help prevent or minimise the risk of damaging them. Just like natural teeth, taking care of your dentures and avoiding undue stress promotes their longevity and maintains oral health.

Maintaining implant-supported dentures requires a routine similar to caring for natural teeth but with a few specific considerations. Here’s what you need to do to keep them in optimal condition:

• Daily cleaning.
  Brush your overdentures twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush. It’s important to choose regular toothpaste that doesn’t contain whitening agents or microbeads, as these can be abrasive.
• Flossing considerations.
  Traditional floss might pose a risk for peri-implant disease. Instead, it is recommended that you use an interdental brush and water flosser on a low setting. This helps clean your dentures and between teeth efficiently without harming the implants or the surrounding tissue.
• Antibacterial mouthwash.
  Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash once or twice a day. This helps keep bacteria at bay and clean your mouth, reducing the risk of infections.
• Regular dental visits.
  Visit your dentist as recommended for a deep cleaning and routine comprehensive dental exam. Regular check-ups are crucial for maintaining the longevity of your dentures and oral health.
• Care for natural teeth.
  If you have natural teeth remaining, continue to brush and floss them as usual. Good oral hygiene is essential for your natural teeth and implant-supported dentures.
• Soak removable overdentures.
  If you wear removable implant-supported dentures, soaking them at night reduces odour-causing bacteria, plaque, and stains. Use denture tablets and a clean denture container.

There are two types of implant-supported dentures: removable and fixed. The kind you have will determine whether they can be removed.

• Removable implant-supported dentures.
  These are designed to snap onto the implants and can be taken out for cleaning. They’re a good option if you prefer the convenience of taking your dentures out for maintenance.
• Fixed Implant-supported dentures.
  This is also known as permanent dentures. They are securely attached to the dental implants and are not meant for daily detachment.

Your dentist will help you decide which option suits you, considering factors like your dental health, jawbone condition, and personal preferences. It’s important to discuss your lifestyle and maintenance preferences with your dentist to choose the type of denture that will highly suit your needs.

The recommendation for sleeping with implant-supported dentures can differ based on the type of dentures you wear.

It’s generally recommended to take out removable overdentures at night. This practice allows your gums and bones to rest, preventing irritation and infection. It also helps maintain oral hygiene, as it gives you an opportunity to clean your dentures and your mouth thoroughly.

On the other hand, fixed implant-supported dentures, which are securely attached, cannot be detached from your mouth. In this case, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Proper brushing, flossing, and possibly using specific cleaning tools for under the denture are important to keep your mouth healthy.

It’s always recommended to follow your dental professional’s recommendations. They can provide advice tailored to your unique needs and the type of implant-supported dentures you have.

The cost of implant-supported dentures generally ranges between $15,000 and $18,000, though it can vary. Factors influencing the cost include:

• the intricacy of your dental requirements,
• the specific number and type of implants used,
• the denture materials
• the professional fees of the dental team handling your case.

It’s important to consider that while the initial investment might seem significant, implant-supported dentures offer long-term benefits, including enhanced functionality, comfort, and aesthetics compared to traditional dentures. Additionally, their durability means they may require less frequent replacements or repairs, potentially leading to cost savings in the long run.

A detailed consultation with your dentist is essential to get an estimated cost of implant-supported dentures. They can explain the cost elements in your specific situation and discuss options to make the investment more manageable. Opting for implant-supported dentures is a step towards a better smile.

Health fund cover for implant-supported dentures depends on your preferred provider and the level of dental cover it provides. Some health funds may cover a portion of the cost of implant-supported dentures. However, it’s common for these types of dental procedures to be categorised as major dental work, which might be covered only under more comprehensive health fund plans.

To determine whether your implant-supported dentures are covered, you must check the details of your health fund policy. Look for information under major dental cover, and consider contacting your health fund provider directly for clarification. They can offer specific details on what is included, any limits or waiting periods that apply, and the amount of cover.