How Many Implants Are Needed For Lower Implant Supported Dentures?

Considering implant supported dentures? This hybrid tooth replacement option is one that provides patients with stability and a natural-looking smile. Implant supported dentures can be used to replace teeth on the upper or lower arch. In the event that the lower arch of teeth needs to be replaced, patients are often curious about how many dental implants are necessary. Continue reading to find out! 

Implant supported dentures for lower teeth

Below is a quick overview of implant supported dentures for lower arches of teeth, including how many dental implants are needed. This information can be helpful to review when looking into tooth replacement options.

The implants

When considering implant supported dentures, it is necessary to understand that there are two parts. The dental implants secure the denture piece into place, which is why they play such a vital role. 

There is a common misconception that a single implant is required for every missing tooth; however, when paired with dentures, that is not true! If an entire arch of lower teeth are needing to be replaced, it is likely that only four dental implants will be needed. The implants can be evenly spaced throughout the lower arch so that the denture piece is secure and evenly fitted.

The procedure

An implant supported denture procedure is one that has multiple parts. The first part involves the actual placement of the dental implants, which does require oral surgery. After a few months of osseointegration and healing, the patient can return to the dentist in order to be fitted for the denture piece. Dentures have to be custom-made to fit the patient's mouth, which means a few weeks of waiting while they are crafted in a dental lab. Lastly, the dentures are attached to the abutment, which connects to the top of the dental implant. 

Other things to know

When considering implant supported dentures for lower arches of teeth, it is good to be aware of a few things. For one, the time commitment is important. The tooth replacement process with implants can take up to a few months; however, the outcome is worth it! Additionally, there is a bit of recovery time since oral surgery is required. At maximum, patients should expect to take a week of gentle eating and extra rinsing. Lastly, patients should know that there will of course be an adjustment period, especially with the lower arch. The lower arch of teeth are responsible for a lot, including the bite force and how the tongue lies. Dentures of any sort do require a period of adjustment. 

Consult with a general dentist

Want to find out more about implant supported dentures? Talking with a dentist is the next step to take. The dentist can perform an evaluation to determine what plan of action to take. Then, any questions or concerns about tooth replacement with implant supported dentures can be addressed. Reach out today to learn more or to get scheduled for a consultation appointment. 

Request an appointment here: https://dexterdds.com or call Scott Dexter, DDS at (916) 233-0910 for an appointment in our El Dorado Hills office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Implant Supported Dentures in El Dorado Hills, CA.


Related Posts

December 5, 2022

Common Questions About Implant Supported Dentures

When it comes to replacing a full dental arch with implant supported dentures, patients often have many questions about the process. This article answers some commonly asked questions about implant dentures.The structure …

June 26, 2020

Can Implant Supported Dentures Improve Chewing Function?

Implant supported dentures are a great replacement option for those needing a solution for missing teeth. Dentists often recommend them for patients who are replacing an entire arch of teeth, whether that be the top …

June 7, 2021

What You Should Do With Broken Dentures

Broken dentures are a fairly common occurrence and not typically a cause for alarm. However, a broken denture can make necessary functions like eating and talking difficult, so the piece should …

June 6, 2019

How Often Should I See My General Dentist for Dentures Maintenance?

It is a common myth that if you have dentures, you will not need to visit your dentist as often as you did before. If you are missing one or several of your natural teeth …

Dr. Dexter

Share
Published by
Dr. Dexter

Recent Posts

Does a Restorative Dentist Use Dental Bridges?

A restorative dentist might recommend a dental bridge if you are missing multiple teeth right…

1 month ago

4 Things You May Not Have Known About Clear Braces

Many have heard about clear braces, but it is helpful to understand more about what…

3 months ago

The Role of a Sleep Medicine Trained Dentist with Treating Sleep Apnea

Dentists and doctors work together to address sleep apnea. A dentist well-trained in sleep medicine…

4 months ago

How Long Do Veneers Last? Tips for Maintaining Your New Smile

Here are the details you must consider about dental veneers.

4 months ago

Preventive Dentistry: Choosing the Right Toothbrush

Preventive dentistry professionals recommend replacing a toothbrush every three to four months.

6 months ago

Healing Time Length After a Tooth Extraction

Extractions are typically recommended when other options are not enough to solve a patient’s problems.

7 months ago