Missing All Lower Teeth
Many denture wearers experience no difficulties with upper dentures, but some find wearing and eating with lower dentures challenging and problematic. Fortunately, these people have access to several implant-supported replacement options for replacing all lower teeth.
1. Before
1. Implants Placed
1. Dentures Attached
Ball Attachment Denture
The available options address the way the dentures are attached to the lower jaw.
The method we will explore first involves placing two implants in your lower jaw and snapping a denture onto the implants. With the denture attached to a permanent implant, it becomes more stable while chewing than otherwise.
Be aware, however, that the denture will still move slightly and could therefore trap small food particles, especially seeds, which could lead to some soreness.
This method requires periodic appointments for denture adjustment as with any removable
Bar Attachment Denture
Our second option places a larger number of implants, four to six, depending on the size and shape of your jaw. Following a healing time, a custom-made support bar connects the implants. You then receive dentures made with internal retention clips that attach onto the support bar, and the denture snaps securely into place. The advantage of this “overdenture” is much greater stability over the first method, allowing minimal denture movement, but you can easily remove the denture for cleaning and maintenance.
1. Before
1. Implants Placed
1. Dentures Attached
1. Before
1. Implants Placed
1. Denture Attached
Screw Retained Denture
The third procedure consists of five or more implants placed in the lower jaw followed by the attaching of a permanent denture. Screws or clasps hold the denture in place to secure it to the posts or to the bar. The denture does not make contact with the gum tissue so that you can clean under the denture without removing it.
The denture replaces all missing lower teeth and you need not remove it other than at maintenance visits. Many patients prefer this permanent denture despite the increased time needed to clean under it without removing it, along with a little higher dexterity requirement.
Individual Implants
The final option means replacing all teeth individually with implants. Now they appear to be growing directly out of your gum tissue and will look like your natural teeth. This procedure involves eight or more implants involving separate abutments or support posts for each implant: these will be fitted with crowns for each missing tooth.
Sinus grafting may be employed replace bone height strength and support, joining the teeth together.
This final option comes with the highest price, since it requires the most separate implants along with the fabrication of individual replacement teeth. This would be the most natural looking and convenient option but will be limited by the current size and shape of your jawbone.
1. Before
1. Implants Placed
1. Healing Completed
Welcome to Desert Valley Oral Surgery
At Desert Valley Oral Surgery, we know how to help you. Our board-certified surgeons and expert staff can provide the care you need to relieve the discomfort you feel.
