Implant Supported Restorations

Implant-Supported Overdenture

An implant-supported overdenture is a complete removable denture that is retained with the help of implants. The implant support may be provided by a gold bar that is screwed onto the implants and gold clips that are processed to the denture. The gold clips engage the gold bar and the denture is stabilized by this connection.  Another form of retention is derived from the placement of locator abutments on the implants.  The locator abutments work as a recipient for a  male component which is connected to the denture. Whatever the design of the implant-supported overdenture prosthesis, the purpose is to overcome the instability and lack of retention of a  complete removable denture.

One of the main advantages of an implant-supported overdenture is that it is very easy to clean and maintain because the patient is able to remove the prosthesis.  Implant-supported overdentures are relatively inexpensive when compared to implant -supported fixed prostheses.

Implant-Supported Fixed Prostheses

Implant-supported fixed prostheses can replace just one tooth or all of the teeth in one dental arch.  The metal framework for these prostheses can be fabricated from titanium or a noble metal.  This framework can be veneered with tissue-colored acrylic to simulate the gum tissue that is replaced and the teeth are replaced with strong, durable and life-like acrylic teeth. The framework may also be veneered with ceramic.  The choice between acrylic and ceramic for tooth replacement is made based on the patient’s specific needs, oral condition and requirements.

A blonde woman with blue eyes smiling after implant supported restorations

Titanium dental implants have been in use by dental professionals for over forty years as a successful and trusted method of tooth replacement.  Titanium dental implants offer the following advantages:

  • Titanium is a biocompatible material and as a result, accepted by your body.
  • With proper care, good health and oral hygiene, your implant can actually last a lifetime.  
  • When implants are utilized to replace isolated missing teeth, the neighboring teeth are spared since they do not have to be reduced to be used as abutments to support the replacement tooth.  
  • Lastly, implants maintain natural bone (due to bone stimulation) and reduce further bone loss.

Implant Supported RestorationsImplant Supported Restorations
Actual patients