Snap-In Implant Dentures
In Chicago, IL

An upper implant denture typically requires a minimum of 4 implants, while a lower implant denture needs at least 2 implants. Generally, having more implants enhances the stability of your denture, especially for the lower denture. Choosing 3 or 4 implants for the lower denture often leads to significantly improved stability compared to using just 2 implants. This increased support helps ensure a more secure and comfortable fit for your dentures.

In many cases, yes! If you've been using dentures for a while, you may still be a candidate for implants. We simply need to schedule a free consultation, during which we can perform a 3D CBCT scan of your jaw. This scan will help us assess whether you have enough bone density to support dental implants. Let us help you explore your options!

While individual experiences may vary, you may experience some discomfort and swelling following your procedure. However, many patients report minimal discomfort during their post-operative appointment the next day. To help manage any discomfort you might feel, we will prescribe pain medication. Rest assured, we’re here to support you through your recovery!

We offer IV moderate sedation to help you relax and often results in little to no memory of the procedure.

Important: You must arrange for a driver to take you home after the procedure, as you should not operate a vehicle or any machinery after IV sedation. Your safety is our priority!

Absolutely! Implant dentures are significantly more secure than traditional dentures. They are anchored directly to the jawbone, providing excellent stability and confidence while eating and speaking. If desired, we can further enhance their retention with stronger inserts for even greater security. You can trust that implant dentures will give you a reliable and comfortable fit!

It depends on the specifics of your situation. To remove a portion of the palate in a snap-in denture, we typically need to ensure that the dental implants are distributed appropriately. With our All-On-4 procedure, we can facilitate the removal of the palate, but this isn’t always feasible with snap-in dentures.

When the palate is removed, many patients report improved taste sensation and heightened sensitivity to hot and cold, leading to a more natural feel. Additionally, for patients with a severe gag reflex, eliminating the palate can provide significant relief. If you're considering this option, let's discuss your specific needs during a consultation!

If you qualify for a palate-less denture, the palate will be removed from your final denture after healing and osseointegration are complete. This typically occurs about 4-6 months after your implants are placed, when we are ready to attach your permanent dentures to the implants. At that point, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of a more natural feel and improved taste sensation!

Typically, you’ll need to change your implant inserts 1 to 2 times per year. However, this can vary depending on factors such as the number of implants, the strength of your bite, how often you remove your dentures, and other individual considerations.

IMPORTANT: Please avoid biting your dentures into place on your implants, as this can wear out your inserts more quickly. Always place your implant dentures in by hand to ensure longevity and optimal performance.

Alveoplasty is a dental procedure that involves reshaping and smoothing the jawbone, typically after tooth extraction. This procedure is crucial because it enhances the fit and comfort of your dentures, resulting in a more stable and pleasant experience for the wearer. A well-contoured jawbone helps prevent movement and irritation, ensuring that your dentures function effectively and comfortably.

Tori are bony growths that can develop in the mouth of many individuals, typically along the gum line or on the roof of the mouth. While tori are generally not harmful, they can interfere with the comfortable fit of your dentures. If they cause discomfort or hinder the proper seating of your dentures, your doctor may recommend their removal to ensure a better fit and improved comfort.

Increased salivation, or drooling, can occur for several reasons, especially in relation to dental changes. Here are a few potential causes:

• Dental Appliances: New dentures or adjustments to existing ones can cause irritation or stimulate saliva production, leading to increased drooling.
• Tori: If you have tori (bony growths in the mouth), they may interfere with the fit of your dentures, which can affect how your mouth functions and increase saliva production.
• Oral Sensitivity: Changes in the oral environment, including new materials or procedures, can lead to heightened sensitivity and increased saliva flow.
• Nerve Stimulation: Dental work can sometimes stimulate nerves that trigger increased saliva production.

If you're experiencing increased salivation, it’s a good idea to discuss this with your doctor, who can help identify the cause and recommend appropriate solutions.

Significant bleeding should have stopped by the time you leave the clinic, but you may experience some slight oozing for 1-3 days afterward. When your denture(s) are first placed, you might notice increased salivation; if this saliva mixes with a small amount of blood, it can appear more concerning. If you experience heavy bleeding, please contact our office immediately.

A helpful home remedy to encourage clotting is using tea bags. Simply dampen a regular tea bag, squeeze out any excess water, and place it on the extraction site. The tannins in the tea can aid in clotting. You can use multiple tea bags if necessary and replace them as they become saturated with blood. Feel free to repeat this process as needed.