If your denture slips when you eat or talk, you do not have to live with it. An implant-supported denture, also called an implant-retained or snap-on denture, attaches to 2 to 4 dental implants, so it stays put. Dr. Azher Abbas often tells long-time lower denture wearers that two implants are the best upgrade they can make, and many describe the change as life-changing within a month.
How implant-supported dentures work
Small titanium implants are placed in your jawbone. Attachments on the implants click into matching fittings in your denture. You can still take the denture out to clean it, but it holds firmly while you wear it. The most common option is two implants in the lower jaw with locator attachments under a removable denture, sometimes called a 2-on-2 setup.
Benefits
- Less movement and fewer sore spots
- Better chewing force, so you can eat more of the foods you enjoy
- Less bone loss in the area around the implants
- More confidence when speaking and smiling
Is it right for you?
This option suits people who already wear a complete denture, or are about to, and want a more secure fit. We take a 3D CBCT scan to check your bone and plan where the implants will go. If a reline would solve your problem, we will tell you. If you want fixed teeth that do not come out, ask about fixed dental implants instead.
What to expect
- Consultation and 3D scan. We review your goals, your bone and your current denture. You get a written plan and a price.
- Implant placement. Done with local anesthetic. Oral sedation can be arranged if you are anxious.
- Healing. The overall process takes about 3 to 6 months because the implants need time to heal.
- Attachments and denture fitting. Your denture is adjusted or made to click onto the implants.
- Follow-up. We check the fit and clean the attachments at your regular visits.
Cost, insurance and financing
You receive a written quote at your consultation. Insurance may cover parts of the implants and the denture under separate categories. CDCP does not fully cover implant-retained dentures, but it does cover standard dentures for eligible patients, and we will explain what applies to you. We offer direct billing and 0% in-house payment plans with no third party. The locator attachments wear over time and are usually replaced every 2 to 3 years for a cost of a few hundred dollars.
Before Your Visit
- Bring your current denture, even if it is old.
- Bring a list of medications and medical conditions, especially blood thinners and diabetes.
- Bring your insurance or CDCP card.
- Write down what is not working about your denture today.
After Your Treatment
- Do not rinse, spit or touch the surgical site on the first day.
- Use ice on your cheek, 20 minutes on and 20 off, for the first 36 hours.
- Eat soft foods and avoid hot food and drinks.
- Follow our instructions on when to wear your denture again. Do not wear a denture for at least 10 days unless we say it is okay.
- Once healed, brush the denture daily, clean around the attachments and remove it at night as advised.
Visit Brampton Smiles
50 Sunny Meadow Blvd, Unit 300, Brampton, ON L6R 0Y7, near Bovaird Drive East. Phone: (905) 793-8668.
Hours: Mon, Wed, Thu 10 AM to 7 PM. Tue, Fri 10 AM to 5 PM. Sat 9 AM to 2 PM. Sun closed.
Book your implant denture consultation with a 3D scan.
Related pages
Frequently Asked Questions
How many implants do I need?
Most often 2 implants for a lower denture, but some cases use up to 4. We decide after the 3D scan.
Can I take the denture out?
Yes. It snaps in and out so you can clean it easily.
How long does it take?
About 3 to 6 months, because of healing time.
What is the difference between this and fixed implants?
Fixed implants hold teeth that do not come out. Implant-supported dentures are removable and usually cost less.
Does insurance cover implant-supported dentures?
Partly, depending on your plan. CDCP does not fully cover them. We check your coverage first.
Do I have to replace my old denture?
Not always. Sometimes your existing denture can be adapted. Your dentist will advise you after the exam.