Implant Dentures in Atkins, AR
Whether due to age, injury, or health conditions, tooth loss affects millions of Americans. In fact, one in seven adults over 65 has lost all their teeth—a number that rises significantly in lower-income households, where access to dental care may be more limited. For years, traditional dentures have been the standard solution. They help restore function but often lack comfort and stability. Many denture wearers struggle with slipping, irritation, and difficulty eating certain foods.
Fortunately, advancements in dental technology have transformed the way we replace missing teeth. At Atkins Dental Clinic, we offer implant dentures—a modern alternative that provides lasting security and improved function. Anchored by dental implants, these dentures stay firmly in place, offering greater comfort and reliability. If you’re ready for a better solution, our team is here to help.
What Are Implant Dentures?
Traditional dentures may restore the look of a full smile, but they come with major drawbacks. They rely on suction, muscle control, or adhesives to stay in place, often leading to slipping, discomfort, and difficulty eating certain foods. Implant dentures eliminate these issues by anchoring securely to the jawbone, offering greater stability, comfort, and long-term oral health benefits.
Instead of simply sitting in the mouth, implant dentures attach to titanium dental implants, which Dr. Bratton inserts into the jawbone. These implants function like artificial tooth roots, creating a strong, permanent foundation for the denture. Once in place, the denture snaps or is fixed onto the implants, locking it in position.
Beyond stability, implant dentures actively support oral health. Natural tooth roots stimulate the jawbone, keeping it strong. However, when teeth are lost, the bone begins to shrink. Traditional dentures do nothing to stop this deterioration. Dental implants, however, take on the role of tooth roots, stimulating the jawbone to help maintain its density and shape. Without this stimulation, the jaw gradually recedes, leading to changes in facial structure and a sunken appearance. By securing dentures with implants, patients regain more than just a better fit—they restore proper function and protect the long-term health of their smile.
Mini Dental Implants: The Foundation for Stable Dentures
Similar to the evolution from traditional dentures to advanced implant dentures, the conventional dental implant has experienced its own transformation. Mini dental implants are a type of dental implant that serves the same function as conventional implants but with added benefits.
Mini implants are a slim and streamlined restoration option that maintains the strength and durability of larger implants. They measure less than 3 mm wide or roughly the size of a toothpick, so we can use them in places the larger implants can’t fit, such as in patients with less jawbone density.
Because of their single-piece design, Dr. Bratton can place mini implants more efficiently than conventional implants, and the healing process is quick and easy. For larger traditional implants, it can take months for the screw to fuse with the jawbone, which means a much longer treatment timeline and more trips to the dentist. With mini implants, Dr. Bratton can complete the entire placement process in one minimally invasive procedure. Any mild discomfort afterward should only last a day or two and can be mitigated with over-the-counter medication.
Which Implant Dentures Are Right for You?
We offer multiple implant denture options, each with its level of stability, functionality, and natural look. The type you choose will depend on your goals, preferences, and budget.
Snap-On Overdentures
This option is often called “snap-on dentures” because the dentures can snap on and off the implants.
Instead of resting on the gums, the dentures attach securely to 4 to 8 mini implants but can be easily removed at home.
Overdentures are like a hybrid of traditional and implant dentures. They look and function similarly to conventional removable dentures. However, they have the extra stability of mini implants without the extra pink acrylic that sits across the upper soft palate.
In some circumstances, we can convert your existing dentures into implant overdentures, although this depends on their condition.
Semi-Removable Roundhouse Bridge: Fix-on-Six®
Don’t let the term “bridge” fool you—this option will replace all your upper or lower jaw teeth. The Fix-on-Six® dental implant system is a superior alternative to dentures, utilizing a dental bridge connected to 6-10 mini implants. This method offers enhanced stability and durability. The bridge is a complete arch of artificial teeth made from zirconia, one of the strongest dental materials available. This option removes most or all of the pink porcelain gums to provide a more natural look.
We call this prosthetic semi-removable because only an experienced implant dentist, such as Dr. Bratton, will remove it. During your six-month visits, he will detach the bridge for cleaning and maintenance.
Non-Removable Roundhouse Bridge
The non-removable roundhouse bridge is similar to the Fix-on-Six® system but offers even more stability and security because the zirconia bridge never comes off.
Instead, Dr. Bratton permanently cements the bridge onto 10 to 12 mini dental implants. These permanent dentures provide the highest level of stability and functionality, most closely matching the look and feel of natural teeth.
Why Choose Implant Dentures?
If you have struggled with loose and ill-fitting dentures or are a first-time denture wearer, you may consider implant dentures. These advanced tooth replacement options offer remarkable benefits, making them a preferred choice for our patients. Some key advantages are:
- Better oral function: If someone wants to share their delicious meal with you, they might ask, “Want to have a bite?” With missing teeth or floating dentures, you may not be able to enjoy this simple pleasure. Implant dentures restore your biting and chewing power so you can enjoy your favorite foods again without hesitation.
- Clearer speech: Tooth loss and loose dentures can cause unintentional lisps and difficulty pronouncing certain words. With secure teeth, you can speak clearly and express yourself confidently.
- Improved oral health: Thanks to the mini dental implants, implant dentures prevent bone loss and preserve the jawbone’s integrity for long-lasting oral health. And, the greater security means that the dentures won’t shift, preventing mouth sores and irritation. Eliminating the need for messy adhesives also means implant dentures are generally easier to clean and maintain.
- Greater self-confidence: Whether you are concerned about the appearance of your smile or the fear of dentures slipping at inconvenient times, implant dentures alleviate these worries, enabling you to live freely without the limitations imposed by missing teeth.
Experience the Stability and Comfort of Implant Dentures
Tooth loss can make everyday life more difficult, from eating your favorite foods to speaking confidently. Whether you’re already wearing dentures or exploring your options for the first time, implant dentures offer a stable, comfortable alternative to traditional removable appliances. By anchoring to mini dental implants, they stay firmly in place, eliminating slipping, irritation, and the need for messy adhesives. If missing teeth are affecting your quality of life, contact us today to schedule a free implant consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, food can sometimes get under snap-in dentures, but it happens far less than with traditional dentures. Since snap-in dentures are secured to dental implants, they stay in place while you eat, reducing movement and limiting the spaces where food can get trapped. However, because the denture rests on the gums, small particles can occasionally work their way underneath.
Good oral hygiene helps prevent irritation and discomfort. Rinsing your mouth and dentures after meals, brushing daily, and using a water flosser can help clear away any trapped debris. Regular checkups with Dr. Bratton also ensure your dentures fit properly and continue to provide the best comfort and function.
The price of implant dentures varies depending on the specific type, the materials involved, and the number of implants necessary for a secure fit. Because every patient has unique needs, we determine pricing on a case-by-case basis.
At your free implant consultation, we will evaluate your oral health, discuss your treatment options, and provide a detailed cost estimate. We’ll also review your insurance benefits to determine what is covered and outline any out-of-pocket expenses. To make implant dentures as accessible as possible, we partner with third-party financing companies, offering flexible payment plans that fit your budget.
It’s completely normal to feel nervous about any dental procedure, but rest assured—getting implant dentures is far more comfortable than many people expect. Dr. Bratton prioritizes patient comfort at every step and offers sedation options to help you feel relaxed throughout the process.
Dr. Bratton places Mini implants using a quick, minimally invasive procedure. First, Dr. Bratton numbs the area with a local anesthetic to ensure you don’t feel pain. Then, instead of making large incisions, he creates a small pilot hole for each implant—no stitches required. Most patients experience only mild soreness afterward, similar to what you might feel after a routine dental procedure. Any discomfort typically fades within 24 to 48 hours and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
If you have concerns about pain or anxiety during the procedure, let us know. We offer various sedation options to make your experience as comfortable as possible.