The Four Different Types of Dentures. Part IV of a 4-Part Series.

Implant retained dentures are the fourth and final denture type and involve placing two or more dental implants into the jawbone and then attaching the denture to those implants.

To install a dental implant, a hole is drilled into the jawbone and a titanium screw is fitted into the hole. After several months, the bone integrates (fuses) with the screw, and a post is attached to the base of the screw. This post juts through the gum into the mouth, and can either be fitted with a porcelain tooth, to which the denture is secured, or in some cases, the denture can be attached to the post directly.

Implant retained dentures are an option for patients who cannot tolerate full dentures because of an overactive gagging reflex. The dental implants allow smaller multiple dentures to cover the top or bottom jawbone, which often is a more comfortable alternative to full dentures. In addition, as wearers of full dentures age, the jawbone tends to resorb over time, changing the shape of the mouth, and in some cases eventually making full dentures impossible to wear. Implant retained dentures allow the denture to remain stable even as the bone recedes.

For questions about dentures, dental implants, periodontal disease or general dentistry, call The Ferber Dental Group a 561-439-8888 or visit http://www.ferberdental.com.