Implant-Supported Dentures in Nashville

^{Also called implant-supported, implant-anchored, or snap-in dentures}

Traditional dentures can slip when you eat, talk, or laugh, often rub your gums, and require messy adhesives. Implant-retained dentures in Nashville solve that by snapping your denture onto dental implants anchored in your jawbone. At Nashville Dental Implants, Dr. Deweese uses this option to give patients a secure, comfortable smile they can still take out for cleaning.

What Are Implant-Retained Dentures?

An implant-retained denture is a full denture that attaches to a small number of dental implants, usually two to four per arch. The implants are titanium posts placed in your jawbone, which fuse with the bone and serve as artificial tooth roots. Small connectors on top of the implants, called abutments, hold the denture in place.

You’ll also hear these referred to as implant-supported dentures, implant-anchored dentures, snap-in dentures, or overdentures. They all describe the same idea: a denture held in place by implants rather than by suction and adhesive.

Unlike a traditional denture, your implant-retained denture doesn’t rely on your gums to stay put. It clicks securely onto the implants, and you remove it at night or for cleaning.

An implant-retained denture is a big step up from a traditional denture, with fewer implants than a fixed bridge. If you’d rather have teeth that never come out, learn about All-on-4® hybrid dentures and All-on-6 dental implants, or compare every option on our full arch dental implants page.

Benefits of Implant-Retained Dentures

• Improved stability: Your denture is anchored to implants, so it won’t slip, slide, or fall out when you eat, speak, or smile.
• Better comfort: The implants carry the load instead of your gums, reducing rubbing, irritation, and soreness.
• No adhesives: Skip the messy pastes and creams.
• Protects your jawbone: When teeth are lost, the jawbone begins to shrink, which can change the shape of your face. Implants stimulate the bone and help prevent that loss.
• Easy to clean: Snap your denture out to clean it and the implants underneath.
• Long-lasting: The implants are designed to last for many years. Your denture may need periodic adjustments or replacement over time, just like any denture.
• A better quality of life: Eating, speaking, and smiling with confidence can boost your self-esteem and overall well-being.

How Are Implant-Retained Dentures Placed?

1. Consultation: Dr. Deweese examines your gums and jawbone and reviews your health history to confirm you’re a good candidate.
2. Implant placement: Two to four implants are placed in your jawbone, usually under local anesthesia, with sedation available.
3. Healing: Over the next few months, the implants fuse with your jawbone through osseointegration. You’ll wear a temporary or modified denture during this time.
4. Attaching your denture: Once the implants have healed and abutments are attached, your custom denture is fitted to snap securely onto them.

Who Is a Candidate for Implant-Retained Dentures?

Implant-retained dentures are a great fit if you’ve lost most or all of your teeth, or if you already wear dentures and are tired of them slipping. Good candidates have healthy gums, enough jawbone to support the implants, and good overall health.

Smoking and conditions like uncontrolled diabetes can affect healing so Dr. Deweese will review your medical history with you. If you’ve lost bone, bone grafting may help you qualify.

Implant-Retained Dentures FAQ

Are implant-supported, implant-anchored, and snap-in dentures the same thing?

Yes. These names all describe a denture held in place by dental implants. At our office, we call the removable version implant-retained dentures.

How many visits does treatment take?

Most patients have a consultation, an implant placement appointment, check-ups during healing, and a final visit to fit the denture onto the implants.

Do I take my implant-retained denture out?

Yes. You snap it out to clean the denture and the implants, and Dr. Deweese will tell you whether to leave it in or take it out overnight.

How do I care for implant-retained dentures?

Clean your denture daily, brush gently around the implants, and keep up with regular checkups so we can check the attachments.

Are implant-retained dentures cheaper than All-on-4®?

Usually, because they need fewer implants, your exact cost depends on your treatment plan. We accept most private dental insurance plans and offer flexible financing.