Can Implant-Supported Dentures Replace Multiple Missing Teeth in Melton?
Case Note ID: Jan-2025-ISD
Location: Melton Dental House (serving Melton, Rockbank, Kurunjang and surrounding areas)
Primary Treatments: Full arch implant-supported dentures, multiple extractions
Supporting Technology: Dental implant fixtures, custom-fabricated prosthetics
Presenting Clinical Problem
- Multiple teeth with severe structural damage beyond repair
- Patient concerns about removable dentures slipping or falling out
- Difficulty with chewing function affecting dietary choices
- Desire for permanent tooth replacement solution
- Primary objective: Remove non-viable teeth and restore function with stable prosthesis
Treatment Plan & Clinical Process
Phase 1: Assessment and Planning
- Comprehensive examination including 3D imaging of jaw bone
- Evaluation of bone volume and quality for implant placement
- Discussion of implant-supported versus conventional denture options
- Treatment planning for number and position of implants required
- Financial planning and timeline discussion
Phase 2: Extractions and Implant Placement
- Removal of teeth that cannot be saved
- Surgical placement of dental implants into jaw bone (typically 4-6 per arch)
- Healing period allowing bone integration with implant fixtures (3-6 months)
- Temporary denture provision during healing phase
- Monitoring of healing progress and implant stability
Phase 3: Prosthesis Fabrication and Attachment
- Impressions and bite records once implants fully integrated
- Custom fabrication of denture designed to attach to implants
- Fitting of attachment mechanisms (bars, locators or similar systems)
- Delivery appointment with instructions for removal and cleaning
- Follow-up adjustments and maintenance protocols
Clinical Outcome
The treatment involved placing six dental implants to support removable dentures on both upper and lower arches. Implant-supported dentures offer improved stability compared to conventional dentures through mechanical attachment to the implant fixtures. Chewing function is generally better than conventional dentures, though still reduced compared to natural teeth.
Individual results vary and cannot be guaranteed. Implant-supported dentures still require daily removal for cleaning and some movement during eating is normal. Implants can fail (success rates typically 90-95%), and prostheses require periodic maintenance and eventual replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions for Melton Patients
Do implant-supported dentures stay in permanently?
No, implant-supported dentures are designed to be removed daily for cleaning. They attach securely to implants during wear but must be taken out to clean both the denture and implant attachments. This differs from fixed implant bridges which cannot be removed by the patient.
How many implants are needed for dentures?
Typically 4-6 implants per arch provide adequate support for dentures. Exact number depends on bone quality, jaw anatomy and prosthesis design. More implants generally provide better stability but increase treatment cost and complexity.
What if an implant fails years later?
If one implant fails, the denture may still function with remaining implants, though stability may reduce. Failed implants can often be replaced, though this requires additional surgery and healing time. Some denture redesign may be necessary depending on which implant is affected.
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