Case 11 – Implant Supported Dentures

Dental Implants can also be used to secure loose dentures. There are many types of attachments available to secure the dentures. The type of attachments can vary in their cost and design. There are advantages and disadvantages to each of the design. Dr. Leung can assist you in deciding what the ideal treatment is for your unique situation. In all the cases shown, Dr. Leung was involved in both the fabrication of all the prosthesis (implant supported denture) as well as the surgical placement of some of the dental implants.

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Non-splinted Implants- Stud Attachment

In this case, the implants remain separated from each other. The abutment serves as an attachment. The other part of the attachment (usually the female portion) is located inside the prosthesis (denture). The most common shape of attachment is a ball. The advantage of this design is ease of hygiene maintenance and usually a lower cost. Treatment is often simpler with non-splinted implants and the existing denture can be used and retrofitted with the attachments.

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Splinted Implants: Bar Attachment

In these cases, the implants are joined or splinted by a bar that enables attachment to the prosthesis.  The bar is retained on implants by the screws.  The inside of the denture contains the attachments to the bar.  The splinted implants often require more space than non-splinted implants.  Hygiene maintenance is more challenging and often requires a higher laboratory fee because of the amount of metal used in fabricating the bar.

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Implant Supported Partial Denture

Dental implants can also be used to secure a partial denture. They can be used to provide additional support and retention for the partial denture. As a result, the remaining teeth will be less stressed. In addition, dental implants can also make the partial denture more aesthetically pleasing. The avoidance of any metallic display may be possible with the use of dental implants. Chewing efficiency may also be improved.