20 Jun How Many Dental Implants Will I Need For My Implant Denture?

Implant-supported dentures have been praised as a more secure and comfortable solution to replace a complete row of missing teeth when compared to traditional, removable dentures. As a custom-made restoration anchored to the jawbone, implant dentures can provide a greater sense of stability for your prosthesis and allow increased confidence when eating and speaking. That said, how many dental implants are usually required to adequately affix a denture to the jaw? The answer differs for each patient depending on existing jawbone density, the location of the dental arch replacement, and the strength of one’s bite, but most individuals require four to six implants to properly secure their denture.

At Center For Smiles, our periodontist and restorative dentist often use the All-on-4® technique to anchor a denture, a state-of-the-art method of full mouth reconstruction that strategically positions implants at locations in the jaw where bone volume is the strongest. This allows fewer implants to be utilized when replacing a dental arch, minimizing the time, expense, and recovery period necessary with the implant denture procedure. In some cases, six implants may be used for patients who require additional jawbone support for their restoration, or for individuals who have a habit of clenching and grinding their teeth. The treatment process with six implants is the same as All-on-4®, but this technique is aptly named All-on-6®.

The number of dental implants necessary may also depend on whether teeth in the upper or lower jaw need replacing, as the bone in the upper jaw tends to be softer than the lower jaw. As a result, a top denture may need more dental implants to achieve a stable foundation than a bottom denture. The upper jaw often requires at least four implants for a successful outcome, while the lower jaw can sometimes anchor a restoration with as little as two implants. Ultimately, your unique situation will be assessed by Dr. Rallis and Dr. Chondrogiannis in a consultation, after which they can create the most optimal treatment plan for your needs.

To learn more about implant dentures, or if you are ready to schedule a consultation and reclaim your smile, please contact Center for Smiles today.