Does your denture move when you eat or speak? Do you find yourself worrying about it slipping when you're out with other people?
For some denture wearers, that movement can become frustrating. You may avoid certain foods, cover your mouth when you laugh, use denture adhesive regularly or simply feel less confident than you would like.
These may seem like small things, but over time, they can affect your confidence and everyday life.
If this sounds familiar, implant-retained dentures could offer a more secure and comfortable alternative.
Dental implants can be used to help hold a removable denture more securely in place, providing greater stability while still allowing you to remove the denture for cleaning.
So how do implant-retained dentures work, and are they the same as full-mouth dental implants?
Let's take a closer look.
Why do dentures become loose?
A denture sits over the gums and underlying jawbone.
After teeth are lost, the bone that previously supported them can gradually change in shape and volume. As this happens, a denture that once fitted well may become less stable.
Your mouth also changes naturally over time.
This means an older denture may begin to move when you eat or speak, even if it fitted comfortably when it was first made.
Sometimes improving or replacing the denture itself may help. In other situations, dental implants can provide additional support.
What Are Implant-Retained Dentures?
Implant-retained dentures, sometimes called snap-in dentures, are removable dentures held securely in place by dental implants. Rather than relying only on the gums for support, they attach to the implants which act as secure anchor points.
Once the implants have healed, your custom-made denture connects to them using special attachments.
Think of it as a denture that clicks into place.
The result is a more stable fit, with less movement when eating or speaking. It is still removable, you can take it out for cleaning, just as you would with a conventional denture, but it is designed to stay secure throughout the day.
How Are Implant-Retained Dentures Different From Traditional Dentures?
Traditional dentures can be an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth. However, some people find that their dentures become loose or uncomfortable over time.
This often happens because the jawbone gradually changes shape after teeth are lost.
Implant-retained dentures offer additional support by attaching directly to implants in the jaw.
The main differences include:
Greater stability: Less movement when talking, laughing or eating.
Improved comfort: Reduced rubbing and movement may help prevent sore spots.
More confidence: Less worry about dentures slipping in public.
Easier eating: A more secure bite may make a wider range of foods easier to enjoy.
Removable design: You can take them out for daily cleaning.
However, implant-retained dentures still need regular maintenance, and they are not suitable for everyone.
Can You Eat Normally With Implant-Retained Dentures?
For many patients, eating is one of the biggest concerns.
Perhaps you've avoided apples, crusty bread or your favourite meal because your dentures don't feel secure.
Implant-retained dentures can improve chewing stability and make eating more comfortable.
Although they won't feel exactly like natural teeth, many patients find they can enjoy foods they previously struggled with.
You'll still need to take care with very hard or sticky foods, particularly during healing.
The aim isn't simply to replace missing teeth. It's to help you feel more comfortable enjoying everyday moments, including meals with family and friends.
How many implants are needed to retain a denture?
The number of implants depends on your jawbone (the amount and quality of available bone), whether we're treating the upper or lower jaw, the type of denture and your individual treatment needs.
Some lower dentures can be supported by two implants, while other designs may require four or more. Meanwhile, upper dentures often need additional support because of differences in the jawbone.
At The Lytham Dental Clinic, your clinician will assess your mouth and recommend an appropriate number and position of implants for the proposed restoration.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach.
What happens during treatment?
If you're considering implant-retained dentures, understanding the process can make treatment feel less daunting.
1. Your initial consultation
You'll meet Stuart, the principal dentist, to discuss your concerns, who will assess whether implants are suitable, examine your oral health and explain your treatment options.
2. Your implant assessment
You'll meet our implantologist, Dr Padaki, an experienced Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, who will explain treatment further.
You may need a 3D CBCT scan to examine your jawbone. Some patients also need bone grafting to provide enough support for the implants.
3. Implant placement
The implants are carefully placed into your jawbone under local anaesthetic. You'll receive guidance on what to expect and how to care for your mouth afterwards.
4. Healing and denture fitting
The implants usually need several months to bond with the bone. Once healing is complete, your denture can be fitted and adjusted.
The exact timescale depends on your treatment plan.
Does getting denture implants hurt?
Implant placement is generally carried out under local anaesthetic, which means the area being treated is numb during the procedure.
Some discomfort, swelling or bruising can occur afterwards as the area heals. This varies between patients and according to the extent of treatment.
We'll explain what to expect and how to care for your mouth following the procedure.
And if dental treatment makes you nervous, please tell us.
You won't be expected to simply “get on with it”. We can explain what is happening at each stage and give you the opportunity to ask questions before deciding whether treatment feels right for you.
How Long Do Implant-Retained Dentures Last?
Dental implants can last for many years with good care, they tipically last 10-15 years, but no implant treatment comes with a lifetime guarantee.
The removable denture and its attachments may need adjustments, repairs or replacement over time.
Daily cleaning is essential, even if you no longer have natural teeth. You'll need to clean your denture, care for the implants and surrounding gums, and attend regular dental appointments.
Good maintenance helps protect your investment and reduce the risk of complications. There’s been cases where implants have lasted 20 years with the correct care.
Implant-retained dentures vs traditional dentures
The biggest difference is retention.
A conventional denture rests on the gums and may also use suction, its shape and, in some cases, denture adhesive to help keep it in place.
An implant-retained denture connects to implants within the jaw.
For suitable patients, that additional support may provide greater confidence when eating, talking and going about everyday life.
But implants also involve surgery, additional treatment time, cost and ongoing maintenance.
A well-made conventional denture may therefore remain an appropriate choice for many people.
Your decision should be based on the advantages and disadvantages that matter to you.
How do you clean implant-retained dentures?
Implants don't remove the need for good oral hygiene.
The denture needs to be removed and cleaned as instructed, and the areas around the implants also need careful daily cleaning.
Regular dental examinations and professional maintenance are important so we can monitor the health of the tissues surrounding your implants.
The attachment components used to retain the denture can also wear over time and may occasionally need maintenance or replacement.
Looking after your implant-retained denture is therefore an ongoing part of treatment.
How much do implant-retained dentures cost?
At The Lytham Dental Clinic, our advertised starting price for full-arch implant-retained denture is from £6,290.
Our implant quotations account for possible additional procedures, such as CBCT scans and bone grafting, where relevant. If these procedures aren't needed or carried out, you won't be charged for them. We believe in explaining potential costs before treatment begins.
You'll receive an individual treatment plan explaining the recommended procedures and costs.
We also offer finance options for eligible patients who would prefer to spread the cost. Finance is subject to status and terms.
Are Implant-Retained Dentures Right for You?
You might benefit from implant-retained dentures if your current dentures feel loose, affect your confidence or make eating difficult.
However, your general health, gum health, jawbone and ability to maintain the implants all matter.
If you're nervous about treatment or haven't visited a dentist for years, please don't let that stop you from asking questions.
At The Lytham Dental Clinic, we understand that everyone has different concerns. Our role is to explain your options, without judgement or pressure.
What if I don't want removable teeth?
This is an important question to ask before choosing treatment.
Some patients mainly want their existing denture to feel more secure. For them, an implant-retained denture may be worth considering.
Other patients tell us:
“I don't want teeth that I have to take out.”
If that's important to you, a different type of implant restoration may be more appropriate.
A full arch of replacement teeth can sometimes be supported by strategically positioned dental implants, creating a restoration that remains attached to the implants rather than being removed by the patient.
You may have heard this described using terms such as All-on-4, All-on-6 or full-arch dental implants.
Looking for replacement teeth that stay in your mouth? Explore our guide to All-on-4, All-on-6 and full-arch dental implants.
Ready to Feel More Confident With Your Dentures?
Imagine enjoying a meal without constantly thinking about your dentures, or laughing with friends without worrying about them slipping.
For some patients, implant-retained dentures can make those everyday moments feel easier again.
If you're struggling with loose dentures, we'd love to help you explore your options.
Book an initial consultation at The Lytham Dental Clinic, or arrange a complimentary conversation with our Treatment Coordinator to learn more.
Call us on 01253 736633 or visit our Dental Implants page.
Dental implant treatment is subject to clinical assessment and is not suitable for everyone. Treatment requirements, timescales, costs, risks and outcomes vary between patients. Implant-retained dentures remain removable and require ongoing cleaning and maintenance. Your clinician will discuss the benefits, risks, alternatives and maintenance requirements before treatment.