Implant supported dentures also referred to as locator implant overdentures are more reliable than traditional dentures. Traditional dentures rest on the gum tissue and rely on creating a “suction cup” to stay in place, which can be unreliable at best. When this suction cup phenomenon is unreliable the dentures move easily and can result in discomfort, inability to chew or bite foods and difficulty speaking. Implant overdentures use implants anchored to the jawbone to help improve the stability, function, and comfort of traditional dentures.
At Peninsula Oral and Facial Surgery, we are committed to your dental health. We will always offer the best solutions that ensure a beautiful aesthetic, function, and a sustainable long-term outcome. Locator implant overdentures are a popular option for tooth restoration in San Mateo and nearby areas. Learn how locator implant overdentures differ from other restorative options, see their advantages, and book your consultation to get started with treatment planning today.
Before dental implants became commonplace, dentures were the mainstream solution available for full or partial tooth loss. Resting on the gums, dentures return some of the function and natural aesthetic to the mouth.
But there are problems and limitations with traditional dentures. As teeth are lost, the jaw begins to degrade. Over time, the jaw can lack an adequate structure to support dentures. Dentures can be uncomfortable to wear and are inherently unstable. They do not restore full bite force, so some foods can become difficult to eat and enjoy. Even if correctly fitted, dentures can change the way that you speak, which can affect your confidence.
As more bone density is lost, traditional dentures become even less ideal.
If you have struggled with dentures and become less satisfied over the years, locator implant overdentures could be the ideal solution for your needs. Even if you’ve only recently lost your teeth, the locator system might be right for you.
As the name suggests, locator implant overdentures are supported and attached to the jaw with dental implants. Implants are placed (usually at the front of the mouth) with special abutments that allow dentures to be snapped into place. The system provides several functional advantages…
There are specific technical properties of the Locator system that can benefit you.
The system allows for deviation in the placement of the implants, and movement of the denture while it’s snapped in place. This allows for small movements in the denture, without compromising overall stability or comfort.
Implant overdentures cover less of the roof of the mouth, so you can taste food better.
The snap-on attachment system is easy to use, so placing and removing dentures is simple. There is also a type of dampening system integrated into the design, so biting, chewing, and speaking is comfortable around the gums and the implants.
Treatment with the Locator system is often more affordable than placing individual implants or having a permanent denture placed on standard dental implants, although this varies from case to case.
You can discuss cost, insurance options, and get answers to any of your questions and concerns when you come for your consultation at Peninsula Oral and Facial Surgery.
One concern that many patients have is that traditional dentures can limit dietary choices. This can make it harder to enjoy a well-balanced diet. Limitations can also affect patients in terms of overall enjoyment and quality of life. No one wants to accept limitations in their diet because of the denture function.
People with dentures often avoid whole fruits and vegetables, as well as natural meat products like beef, pork, and chicken. It’s common to see denture wearers opt for food that is softer and more heavily processed because chewing with traditional dentures is simply not as effective as natural teeth.
Locator implant overdentures don’t quite return the full function of the bite, but the performance is greatly enhanced compared to traditional dentures. Slipping is eliminated with implant-supported dentures.
The Locator system can be used in cases of partial tooth loss Instead of traditional partial dentures that fit around healthy teeth. Locator removable partial dentures can be custom-fabricated to fit missing front teeth or molars, supported by implants that are spaced to evenly distribute pressure.
Removable partial dentures with implants come with all of the same benefits as complete dentures with implants. They are more comfortable, more reliable, and restore more of the natural function of your bite than traditional, non-implant supported options.
Your quality of life and oral health can improve with implant overdentures. Whether you need complete dentures supported by Locator implants or removable partial dentures for partial tooth loss, we are ready to design the perfect solution. Book your consultation at Peninsula Oral and Facial Surgery today.