Locator Denture Cost
Many patients are in need of replacing their missing teeth. While traditional dentures are one of the most popular tooth-replacement options, they can often create challenges such as an improper fit and move during routine use. In some cases, the patient may experience bone loss and notice their face is beginning to collapse due to the change in their jawbone.
Fortunately, modern dentistry offers other treatment options which can resolve these issues. Overdentures are an excellent tooth-replacement solution which help maintain the function of the natural teeth and also prevent bone loss. The below article will review common questions associated with overdentures, including the average cost for treatment.
Overdentures are a denture prosthesis which uses dental implants as the foundation. Traditional dentures, in comparison, are secured using a cement and rest on top of the gums. Locator dentures are secured in place by strategically placed dental implants. The implant securely holds the overdentures in place and eliminates the need for any type of adhesive. Patients with implant supported overdentures have the restored function of eating and speaking normally. The implants used to support the overdentures also aids in stimulating the jawbone and preventing the loss of bone. Because the jawbone remains healthy, there is also no change in the shape of the patients face. This helps avoid the sunken in appearance often associated with patients who have traditional dentures.
Cost of Overdentures
Similar to other types of dental procedures, the cost for overdentures will vary based on the oral surgeon and geographic location. On average, the overdenture will cost about $2,500. Dental implants cost approximately $1,000-3,000 per implant. At least four to six implants must be placed in order to support the overdenture. A patient can expect an overdenture to cost between $6,500 and $22,500. While this may seem like a broad range, the cost depends on the number of implants required for the procedure.
Overdentures are available in a variety of different options based on the patient’s budget and individual needs. The device can be removable or permanently fixed in place. Both solutions give patients more stability compared to traditional dentures. Implant-supported dentures improves the function of the teeth, help prevent bone loss, and aid in maintaining good oral health. Below is a summary of the different solutions which use implants to support the overdenture.
Fixed Implant-Supported
When a fixed implant-supported overdenture is used, the oral surgeon will place four to six implants in the jaw. The overdenture will be attached using screw-like connectors. This treatment is considered permanent and can only be removed by the dentist. This solution is the most secure option, however, it is also the most expensive treatment.
Removable Implant-Supported
This solution also involves the oral surgeon placing four to six implants into the jawbone in order to support the overdentures. Rather than the device being permanently fixed, the overdenture will attach to the implants with a special type of connection which securely locks them into place. The overdentures can be removed nightly for cleaning. This treatment option allows for the removal of dentures and is less expensive.
Ball-Retained
The ball retained implant-supported overdenture is an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth located in the lower jaw. Ball-retained dentures offer great stability with as few as two implants. The denture will attach to the implants using a ball-shaped abutment or connector.
Bar-Retained
A bar-retained overdenture also allows for the removal of the dentures. Rather than connecting to each individual implant, the device uses a bar to connect to the implants. The bar holds the dentures securely in place.
Partial Overdentures
Partial overdentures are a fixed, removable tooth-replacement option. This treatment can be used when the patient is missing a few teeth. Similar to other types of overdenture treatment options, the partial denture is held in place using one or more dental implants. Partial overdentures gives patients the stability of an implant, while still allowing for the removal of the device for effective cleaning of the dentures and natural teeth. One challenge with partial dentures is that they can place pressure on the neighboring natural teeth.
Schedule an appointment with your dentist to determine which treatment option is best based on your budget and needs.