Implant-Supported Dentures Calgary

Traditional dentures rest on your gums and rely on suction and adhesive to stay in place. They often slip, cause sore spots, and can make eating certain foods difficult. Implant-supported dentures attach to dental implants surgically placed in your jawbone, providing secure anchorage that eliminates slipping. They also stimulate the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that occurs with traditional dentures. Most patients find implant-supported dentures far more comfortable and functional.

For removable snap-on dentures, you typically need 2-4 implants per arch. For fixed implant-supported dentures (similar to All-on-4), you need 4-6 implants per arch. The exact number depends on your bone density, the type of denture you choose, and your specific needs. During your free consultation at our Calgary clinic, we will use 3D imaging to determine the optimal number of implants for your situation.

In many cases, yes. If your current denture is in good condition and fits well, we can often retrofit it with attachments to snap onto implants. This can save you money compared to getting a completely new denture. However, if your denture is worn, poorly fitting, or made of older materials, a new implant-supported denture may provide better results. We will evaluate your existing denture during your consultation and recommend the best option.

Snap-on (removable) implant dentures attach to implants but can be removed nightly for cleaning. They require 2-4 implants per arch and are more affordable. Fixed implant dentures are permanently attached to 4-6+ implants and are cleaned like natural teeth. They provide the most natural feel and function but require a higher investment. Both options eliminate slipping and preserve bone; the choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and preferences.

The dental implants themselves can last for decades with proper care. The denture portion (the teeth and gums) typically lasts 10-15 years before needing replacement due to normal wear. The attachments that connect the denture to the implants may need periodic replacement every 1-5 years depending on the type. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene help maximize the lifespan of your implant-supported dentures.

Fixed implant-supported dentures feel very similar to natural teeth. They do not move, they restore most of your chewing power, and you care for them like natural teeth. Removable snap-on dentures feel more secure than traditional dentures but still cover some gum tissue, so they feel slightly different than natural teeth. Most patients report that either option is a dramatic improvement over traditional dentures and allows them to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Yes, most long-term denture wearers are candidates for implant-supported dentures. Even if you have experienced some bone loss (common after years of traditional denture use), we can often work with your existing bone or recommend procedures to rebuild it. The angled implant techniques we use can maximize contact with available bone. During your free consultation, we will assess your bone structure with 3D imaging and discuss which implant option will work best for you.

The process typically involves four steps. First, a free consultation with 3D imaging to plan your treatment. Second, surgical placement of the implants under sedation for comfort. Third, a healing period of 3-6 months while implants integrate with your bone; you will wear temporary dentures during this time. Fourth, attachment of your final denture to the implants. For snap-on dentures, we add the snap attachments. For fixed dentures, we permanently secure them, and our in-house lab handles their fitting and adjustments.