Implant Supported Dentures

An implant-supported denture is an overdenture that replaces several teeth all at once. These permanently fixed implants are anchored to your jawbone and will not move around while you chew, smile, or talk. At Lakeview Smiles in Lakeview and Logan Square, your dental implant procedure will be done on site, with Dr. Grace Lee placing the implants herself, to ensure continuity of care and the best possible results.

Advantages of Implant-Supported Dentures

Unlike regular dentures, implant-supported dentures rarely need adjustments or additional maintenance and provide excellent stability. Some additional advantages of choosing implant-supported dentures over traditional dentures include:

• The restoration of clear speech and proper chewing
• No restrictions on what you can eat
• An improved and more natural appearance of your smile
• A prosthesis that stays securely in place
• The prevention of jawbone atrophy and encouragement of bone regeneration
• The ability to brush and floss normally
• A longer-lasting prosthesis than traditional dentures
• The elimination of gum tissue irritation
• The elimination of denture adhesives

Treatment Procedure

The implant supported denture procedure requires multiple steps over multiple appointments, depending on your unique dental issues. Typically, the process goes as follows:

• Consultation and examination: Impressions, X-rays, and a visual exam will be done to create a treatment plan that suits your unique needs. At times, a CT scan may be required to assess how much bone is available and to locate your sinus cavities and nerves. Over the next couple of visits, you will be given a temporary denture to wear.
• Dental implant surgery: Your first surgery will involve placing the dental implants into your jawbone. An incision is made in your gums to reveal more bone, a hole is then drilled into the bone for the implant to be placed, and finally, the incision is sutured closed. This process is the same for each implant. You will need three to six months to heal and to allow the implants to fuse to your jawbone.
• Implant caps and abutments: After three to six months, your second surgery will involve the placement of caps and abutments on your implants to help guide proper healing. This will take ten to 14 days. A final impression is also made to create your permanent denture.
• Denture placement: After ten to 14 days, a metal bar is placed on the abutment and then it’s finally time to try on your new denture. When everything is checked for precise positioning and fit, the denture will be permanently secured.

Caring for Your Implant-Supported Dentures

Dr. Lee recommends taking care of your implant-supported denture just like you would your natural teeth. You will need to brush and floss at least two times a day as normal and schedule regular dental checkups and professional cleanings. There are no restrictions! You may eat what you like after healing is completed.

Why Should I Choose Lakeview Smiles?

At Lakeview Smiles in Lakeview and Logan Square, it’s important to our team to ensure that our patients walk out our door with everything they want and more for their smiles. Your comfort and satisfaction of our patients is our number one priority.