Implant-Supported Dentures in North York

About implant-supported dentures

An implant-supported denture, often called an overdenture, looks much like a regular complete denture. The difference is underneath. Small attachments inside the denture snap onto matching parts on the implants, or onto a bar that joins them. This stops the denture from lifting and sliding as easily.

There are two broad styles. A removable overdenture clips on and off, so you take it out each night to clean it and your gums. For the lower jaw, it is often held by two to four implants. A fixed implant denture is screwed onto several implants and only your dentist can remove it. Fixed designs feel more like natural teeth but usually need more implants, more bone and more planning, and some cases may be referred to an outside surgeon.

Many people choose this treatment because a lower denture is hard to keep in place. The tongue and cheeks push it around, and the ridge of bone underneath shrinks over time. Implants can help hold the denture steady and may slow some of that bone loss in the areas where they sit. In some cases, your existing denture can be adapted to fit the new implants.

Signs an implant denture may help

• Your lower denture moves or lifts when you eat or speak
• You use a lot of adhesive and still do not feel secure
• You have sore spots from a denture that rubs
• You avoid certain foods or social meals because of your denture
• You are about to lose your remaining teeth and want a steadier long-term option

Benefits

• Holds the denture more firmly when chewing
• Can reduce the need for denture adhesive
• Upper designs may leave the roof of the mouth more open
• Removable styles are still easy to clean

What to expect

1. ConsultationYour dentist reviews your health, your current denture and how much bone you have, often with 3D imaging arranged at a nearby imaging centre.
2. Choose a designWe compare snap-on and fixed options, the number of implants needed and what daily care looks like.
3. Place the implantsImplants are placed under local anaesthetic, and your denture is softened inside so you can keep wearing it.
4. Healing periodThe bone bonds to the implants over a few months while you wear your adjusted denture.
5. Connect the dentureAttachments are added to a new or existing denture so it clips or screws onto the implants.

Aftercare

• Take a removable overdenture out every night to clean it, and gently brush the implant attachments in your mouth.
• Expect the small nylon inserts in snap-on dentures to wear; they are replaced from time to time to keep the grip firm.
• Keep regular checkups so your dentist can check the implants, the gums around them and the denture fit.

Other options

A well-made conventional denture, with relines as needed, is a simpler option for some people. If you still have healthy teeth, a partial denture or implant-supported bridge may suit you better. Your dentist will discuss the options with you.

Cost and coverage

The fee for an implant-supported denture depends on the number of implants, the type of attachment or bar, whether a new denture is made and any imaging or grafting. We use the ODA suggested fee guide for reference and give you a staged written estimate. Insurance often treats the denture and the implants differently, so check your plan, and if you have CDCP coverage, please ask us how it may apply. LendCare payment plans may help.

Our promise: we confirm your coverage and explain the cost before treatment.

Your dental team

Treatment is provided by our dentists. Dr. Ardeshir Ranjbari is a registered specialist in periodontics; our other dentists are general dentists. Some complex cases may be referred to a specialist.

Trusted health information

• Oral health for seniors (Government of Canada)
• Oral health (Government of Canada)
• Canadian Dental Care Plan (Government of Canada)

Related services

Implant-Supported Dentures near you

We see patients from across North York and nearby areas, including North York, Don Mills, Parkway Forest, Henry Farm, Willowdale, Scarborough, Richmond Hill, Markham.