Are your dentures slipping during dinner conversations? If this bothers you, it means your current dentures might not be working well for your daily-life. 

At Red Rose Dentistry in Brookfield, Wisconsin, Dr. Emily Eckdahl helps patients discover how implant-supported dentures solve the problem of loose, uncomfortable dentures while giving you back the confidence to eat, speak, and smile naturally.

Regular dentures rely on sticky adhesives and suction to stay in place. Implant-supported dentures attach securely to small titanium posts we place in your jawbone. 

This creates a stable foundation that changes how you experience daily life—you won't have to avoid certain foods or worry about your dentures moving during important and ordinary moments alike.

What You Need to Know

If you're considering implant-supported dentures, here are the key facts:

• Types: Snap-in dentures (you can remove them, need 2-6 implants) or All-on-4 (permanently attached, 4 implants per jaw)
• Timeline: 3-6 months total; we place the implants, let them heal, then attach your dentures
• How long they last: Implants last 20-30+ years; the denture part needs replacement every 5-10 years
• Who can get them: Most patients qualify, including those over 70; diabetes is manageable with proper care
• Recovery: 1-2 weeks for initial healing; full healing takes 3-4 months
• Care: Daily cleaning, regular dental visits, occasional adjustments

How Implant-Supported Dentures Work

Implant-supported dentures (also called snap-in dentures) combine the security of dental implants with dentures you can remove for cleaning. Think of it like upgrading from a house built on sand to one anchored on solid rock.

We place 2-6 small titanium posts in your jawbone, which serve as anchor points for your denture. Special attachments work like precision snaps—secure enough to prevent slipping, yet easy to remove for cleaning. This solves the main problem with regular dentures: they have nothing solid to hold onto.

Am I Too Old for Implant Dentures?

Age alone doesn't prevent you from getting implant-supported dentures. Some of our most successful patients are in their 70s and 80s. What matters more is your overall health, bone density, and ability to heal properly.

During your consultation, Dr. Eckdahl looks at factors like your medications, how well you heal, and your bone structure. Mini implants often work well for older patients because they require less invasive surgery while still providing much better stability than regular dentures.

Implant Dentures with Diabetes

Having diabetes doesn't automatically prevent implant success, but it requires careful management. Well-controlled blood sugar levels are essential for proper healing. Dr. Eckdahl works closely with your medical team to ensure the best conditions for treatment.

Studies show that diabetic patients with good glucose control achieve implant success rates similar to non-diabetic patients. The key is keeping your HbA1c levels below 7% and following post-surgical care instructions exactly.

All-on-4 vs. Snap-In Dentures: Which Is Right for You?

The choice between All-on-4 and snap-in dentures depends on your lifestyle and preferences:

• All-on-4: Permanently attached dentures that don't come out; you brush and floss like natural teeth; higher initial cost but maximum stability
• Snap-in dentures: You can remove them for cleaning; easier maintenance; lower initial cost; excellent stability improvement over regular dentures

Both options dramatically improve your quality of life compared to regular dentures. The decision often comes down to personal preference and budget.

How Many Implants Do I Need?

Lower dentures typically need 2-4 implants for good support, while upper dentures often need 4-6 because the bone is softer. The exact number depends on:

• Bone quality: Denser bone supports fewer implants effectively
• Jaw size: Larger jaws may benefit from additional anchor points
• Your lifestyle: More active patients often prefer additional implants for maximum security
• Budget: More implants increase stability but also cost

Mini Implants vs. Regular Implants

Mini implants (about the width of a toothpick) offer advantages for certain patients:

• Less invasive placement: Often no cuts or stitches required
• Faster healing: Ready for denture attachment in weeks, not months
• Lower cost: More affordable initial investment
• Works with limited bone: Suitable when regular implants aren't possible

Regular-sized implants provide greater long-term stability and last longer but require more substantial bone structure and healing time. Dr. Eckdahl evaluates your specific situation to recommend the most appropriate option.

What to Expect During Recovery After Getting Dental Implants

Understanding the recovery process helps you plan:

• Day 1-3: Mild swelling and discomfort; soft foods only
• Week 1-2: Initial healing; temporary denture if needed
• Month 1: Soft tissue healing complete; you can gradually expand your diet
• Month 3-4: Implants fully integrated; final denture attachment

Most patients return to normal activities within a few days, though complete healing takes several months. The wait is worth it—patients consistently tell us the transformation exceeds their expectations.

Same-Day Options for Dental Implants

In select cases, we can attach a temporary denture to your implants the same day we place them. This immediate approach works best when:

• Bone quality is excellent: Dense bone provides immediate stability
• Implant placement is ideal: Precise positioning allows immediate function
• You can follow strict guidelines: Dietary restrictions during healing are essential

While appealing, immediate loading isn't suitable for everyone. Dr. Eckdahl and you would have a conversation about your specific situation to determine if this accelerated approach is right for you and your lifestyle.

Caring for Your Implant Dentures

Proper care ensures your investment lasts decades:

• Daily cleaning: Remove and clean dentures; brush implant attachments
• Regular checkups: Professional monitoring every 6 months
• Attachment maintenance: Periodic replacement of retention components
• Professional cleanings: Specialized care for implant components

The maintenance routine is straightforward—most patients find it easier than caring for regular dentures since there's no need for messy adhesives or soaking solutions.

What Do I do If an Implant Fails?

While implant failure is uncommon (success rates exceed 95%), we get that its important to understand your options. When early failure happens, it usually occurs within the first few months due to poor healing or infection. Late failure, though rare, can result from trauma or inadequate maintenance.

If an implant fails, replacement is often possible once the area heals. Many patients successfully receive replacement implants and continue with their treatment plan. Dr. Eckdahl discusses backup plans during your initial consultation so you understand all possibilities.

Understanding Cost and Insurance Options For Dental Implants

The investment in implant-supported dentures varies based on several factors:

• Number of implants needed: More implants increase stability and cost
• Type of implants: Mini implants cost less than regular-sized options
• Additional procedures: Bone grafting or extractions affect total investment
• Prosthetic complexity: Premium materials and features increase cost

Insurance coverage varies significantly. While dental insurance can be challenging to navigate, we help you understand your benefits and maximize coverage. Some plans cover portions of the denture component, while others may provide benefits for implant placement.

Our Technology and Approach

We use premium implant systems, including Straumann implants, which are known for their reliability and advanced surface technology that promotes faster healing. Our digital radiography and intraoral cameras ensure precise treatment planning and optimal outcomes.

Locator attachments provide the connection between your implants and dentures. These precision components work through a ball-and-socket mechanism, offering secure retention while you to easily remove it for cleaning. The system provides the perfect balance of stability and convenience for your lifestyle.

Your Next Steps

Ready to discover how implant-supported dentures can transform your life?

Dr. Eckdahl offers comprehensive consultations where she evaluates your oral health, discuss your goals, and develop a personalized treatment plan.

During your first visit, we use advanced diagnostic technology to assess your bone structure and determine the best approach for your situation. We understand a significant decision, and we're committed to providing the information and support you need.