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Restorative care

Implant-supported dentures in Lehi

Does your denture lift when you bite into a sandwich or click while you chat with friends? Anchoring it to a few implants can keep it still, and many people go back to foods they had given up.

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What are implant-supported dentures?

An implant-supported denture is a set of replacement teeth that attaches to implants in your jaw. Instead of resting only on your gums, it locks onto the implants. This helps it stay in place when you bite, chew and speak.

  • Often held by two to six implants per arch
  • Can be snap-in or fixed in place
  • Can help slow bone loss in the jaw

Who implant dentures can help

This option may suit you if:

  • Nearly every tooth in your upper or lower jaw is gone
  • Your current denture moves, rubs or makes you avoid certain foods
  • You use a lot of adhesive and still feel unsure
  • You have teeth that are failing and want a steady replacement

You need enough jawbone to hold the implants and healthy gums. Your dentist checks this with an exam and imaging. Some people need bone grafting first. If you still have several healthy teeth, a partial denture or bridge may be a better fit.

What to expect

  1. Consult and plan. Your dentist reviews your health, takes images and talks about how many implants you need and which style fits your goals.
  2. Removing teeth if needed. Any teeth that cannot be saved are taken out.
  3. Placing the implants. The implants are set in your jaw while you are numbed. You may wear a temporary denture while you heal.
  4. Healing. Over a few months, the bone bonds to the implants.
  5. Final denture. Your new denture is made and attached to the implants. Your dentist checks your bite and fit.

Snap-in or fixed?

A snap-in denture clicks onto the implants and comes out each day for cleaning. A fixed denture stays in your mouth and only your dentist can remove it. Fixed styles may need more implants. Your dentist will help you weigh comfort, cleaning and cost.

Caring for implant dentures

After the implants are placed, expect some swelling, mild bruising and soreness for a few days. Eat soft foods and use a cold pack. Over-the-counter pain relief taken as directed often helps. Once your denture is in, clean it each day. Remove a snap-in denture to brush it and the posts. For a fixed denture, use a water flosser or small brushes to clean underneath. At routine visits, your dentist looks over the implants and gums and replaces any parts that have worn down.

Cost and insurance

Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.

See insurance and payment options

FAQ

Questions about implant-supported dentures

How are these different from regular dentures?
A regular denture rests on your gums and relies on suction or adhesive. An implant denture locks onto posts in your jaw, so it moves much less when you eat or talk.
Can I get one if I still have some teeth?
This option is meant to replace most or all teeth in an arch. If you have several healthy teeth left, a partial denture or implant bridge may suit you better.
What is healing like?
Many people have swelling and soreness for several days. Most return to normal routines soon after. Follow your dentist's instructions and call us if pain or swelling gets worse.
How long do they last?
Implants can last many years with good care. The denture teeth and the snap-in parts wear down and may need repairs or replacement over time.
Can my current denture be used?
Sometimes an existing denture can be changed to snap onto implants. Your dentist will check if yours is a good candidate.

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Dentures

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Questions?

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Our Lehi team will answer your questions and find a time that works for you.

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