In some cases, it may be appropriate to reconstruct patients' mouths with components including a denture which fits down onto supporting implant structures. The reasons for choosing this option (rather than opting for a treatment plan with a fixed-teeth outcome) include anatomical restrictions (e.g.: too much bone loss has occurred and the patient does not wish to undergo major bone grafting) and/or a patient preference for more straightforward or more cost-effective treatment plan.

In these cases, the denture can be removed for cleaning, but fitted back in the mouth onto the implants. In appropriate circumstances, implants give solid support for a denture allowing the patient to talk and smile with confidence knowing their dentures are firmly held in place. They can also expect to eat a wider range of foods than is normally possible with traditional dentures. Many studies have been published in different parts of the world to show that overdentures using implants generally improve patient's eating ability, and can also improve overall health and general well-being (“Quality of Life”).

Shown in the images on this page are just a couple of typical examples of the type of work that we have carried out for many patients over the years.

5. The underside of the denture showing the clips that fit down onto the bar to give a very rigid reconstruction once the denture is in place.

6. View of the denture. This denture is becoming a little worn (having been in heavy use for over 6 years). Eventually a new denture will have to be made, but the bar will remain in place.

At a recent review appointment after 7 years with the bar that we made (still supporting the original denture and going strong), Tom told us what a difference the treatment was continuing to make to his life – he once feared that he was going to be on a long-term diet of rice puddings! – “ now I can eat apples and chew anything!”