Dentures that stay where they belong
If a loose denture keeps you from your favorite foods, or makes you shy about speaking, an implant-supported denture may be worth a conversation.
What they are
Small titanium posts are placed in the jawbone to stand in for tooth roots, and the denture attaches to those posts. Dr. Giswold designs and coordinates each case, and the denture itself comes from a top dental laboratory.
| Compare | Implant-supported | Traditional |
|---|---|---|
| Held in place by | Implants anchored to the jawbone | Resting on the gums |
| When you eat or speak | Fixed, and won't slip | Can feel unstable |
| Cost | Costs more | Costs less |
| Insurance | Most insurers don't cover the implants | Ask the office about your plan |
Most of the time is healing
This is how it generally goes. Your own plan may differ, and Dr. Giswold will walk you through it.
- Healing between surgeries
- About 4 to 6 months
- Gums heal
- About 2 weeks
- Denture is made
- A couple of weeks
Step 1
Assessment
Dr. Giswold checks your teeth, gums and jaw. You need to be free of gum disease and decay, with enough bone to hold an implant. If you've waited a while, you may need a bone graft first.
Step 2
First surgery
Implants are placed. Dr. Giswold works with oral surgeons in the area to coordinate this.
Step 3
Second surgery
After about four to six months of healing, a second surgery prepares the implants to connect to your denture. Your gums may then need about two weeks.
Step 4
Impressions
Dr. Giswold takes impressions of your jaws. The denture can take a couple of weeks, and you'll have a temporary restoration in the meantime.
Step 5
Your denture
The finished denture attaches to the implant posts.
Planning for the cost
Implant-supported dentures cost more than a traditional denture, and most patients pay for most or all of the implant phase themselves. At your appointment the office can talk through payment plans, and the staff will work with your insurance company so any coverage you do have is applied.
Questions first? Call 608-222-9146