Welcome to part two of the series on Implant Supported Dentures (ISD). In this blog we will discuss the maintenance required for ISD’S, how their cost differs from that of traditional ‘fixed’ implants and finally, the different types of ISD’s.
It may be a good time to re-read part one of the series…..Here we go!
ISD Maintenance:
One should refrain from keeping implant supported dentures (ISD’s) in their mouth all of the time i.e. 24 hours a day…..It is best to:
1. Sleep without them and let your gums breathe.
2. Remove them, clean them at night and let them soak.
3. Brush and clean (gently) the implant structures that support the ISD’s.
Financial Aspect:
ISD’s are more financially feasible for many individuals than ‘fixed’ non-removable dental implants. This is because with an ISD, there is only the cost of placing the implant in the jaw, not restoring it i.e. placement of a crown on top of it. For a better understanding of this concept, please see the blog “Dental Implants…A great solution for a missing tooth” which was posted on October 9th, 2011. However, fixed implants are more convenient because the ‘component’ replacing the missing tooth doesn’t have to be removed as is the case with the removable appliance.
Different Types of ISD’s:
There are basically two types: Bar-retained and Ball-retained.
1) Bar-retained: A thin metal bar (see above image) is attached to between 5 and 10 implants. There are attachments on either the bar or the denture or both. They snap together to secure the denture in place.
2) Ball-retained: The implants that are secured in the jaw have a ball
component (also known as a male attachment) which snaps into a female attachment on the inner aspect of the denture.
The fit of both the bar and ball retained dentures is strong. Patients really appreciate this as most are coming from a place where their dentures are quite loose.
Do you have any questions regarding ISD’s or are interested in replacing any teeth that may be missing in your mouth? If so, please do not hesitate to call us and set up a consultation to discuss.
In the next and final blog on the subject of ISD’s, we will look at the ideal locations for the implants that will support the ISD, and the radiographic imaging that is required before an implant is placed…until then!
Yours in dental health,
Dr. F. Keshavarz Dentistry, Brampton Dentist
