Implant-supported dentures
An implant-supported denture snaps or locks onto implants placed in the jawbone, so it is held more firmly than one that rests on the gums. Dr. Sosa makes and fits the denture; a surgeon we refer you to places the implants.
What happens
Several visits over a few months, most of it waiting while the implants heal.
- 01
Step 1: Exam and a scan
Dr. Sosa looks at your mouth and sends you for a scan, then goes through whether this is a good fit.
- 02
Step 2: Implants are placed
The surgeon places the implants and explains the risks and the healing time.
- 03
Step 3: Healing
Your gums and bone heal around the implants. Many people wear their current denture or a temporary one meanwhile.
- 04
Step 4: The denture is made and fitted
Impressions, a try-in and a fitting, as for any denture, with the attachments added in our lab.
The surgeon's visits and fees are separate from ours.
Comfort, choices and care
Comfort
The surgeon who places the implants explains how the area is numbed and what you can ask for. Our part is impressions, try-ins and fitting, as for any denture.
If you wait
A denture on the gums keeps working, and you can stay with it. Gums and bone change over time, and a loose denture can be relined; Dr. Sosa tells you what she sees.
Risks and after-care
Implants are surgery. Risks include infection, an implant that doesn't fuse to the bone, and harm to nearby teeth or nerves; the surgeon goes over them. The denture still needs cleaning every day, and its attachments wear and are replaced.
How it's billed
We give a written estimate for the denture before we start. The surgeon bills you separately for the implants.
How fees work
Questions about implant-supported dentures
Am I a candidate?
That depends on your bone, your health and what you want. The surgeon and Dr. Sosa decide together after a scan. For some people a regular denture is the better choice.
Can my current denture be used?
Sometimes a denture you have can be adapted to snap on. Dr. Sosa tells you after an exam.
Do you place the implants?
No. Dr. Sosa is a general dentist and refers that step out. She makes and fits the denture.
Provided by a general dentist
Dr. Evangelina Sosa, DDS, general dentist, licensed in Texas.