What is a Locator Denture?
Dentures are a dental prosthesis used to replace an entire arch of teeth on one or both arches. Dental implants are a dental prosthesis that can replace an individual tooth or support multiple teeth. An implant-assisted denture is the best of both worlds, dental implants hold the denture in place for a secure and comfortable fit! A locator denture is one type of implant-assisted denture that has the added benefit of being removable for easy care and maintenance.
How are dental implants placed?
Dental implants are surgically placed directly into the jawbone. The doctor will make an incision in the gum tissue where the implant will go and drill a small hole in the bone and place the implant. The gum tissue is then stitched up around the implant with a small portion left protruding through the gum tissue. The implant abutment is placed on the implant and that is what the restoration is attached to. For a locator denture, a locator abutment is used.
Dental implants act as an artificial tooth root and help support bone structure, preventing degeneration in the jaw. Our tooth roots stimulate bone regeneration and when the roots are no longer there, the osteoblast cells that regenerate bone structure use their energy elsewhere and the bone begins to deteriorate in the area. Dental implants work just like tooth roots and prevent bone deterioration and ill-fitting dentures.
What is a locator denture?
When dental implants are used to support a removable denture, it is called an attachment denture. A locator denture is a type of implant-assisted overdenture that has nylon attachments built into the underside of the denture base that snap onto the locator abutments for a stable and secure fit. Locator dentures are incredibly natural looking and very comfortable for the patient.
Should I get a locator denture?
Utilizing implants provides a solid foundation and allows for optimal eating and speaking. They are beneficial to the overall health of the patient because they also help to preserve the underlying bone which can shrink over time without a tooth root to retain it, as is the case with a traditional denture.
With the process completed, you will have a beautiful new removable restoration designed to replace your natural teeth in a way that greatly improves your appearance, with the added advantage of attaching to fixed implant-assisted locators.
Dental implants are a great option for patients who need to replace a full arch of teeth. They are more invasive and more expensive than other options but in the long run, they have better longevity so the cost upfront is typically less in the long run. It is important to understand your options before you choose a certain treatment plan. Locator dentures are a great option for patients who are healthy enough for implant placement surgery and can endure the extensive healing time, which can be up to six months.
Speak to your dentist to see if you may be a candidate for a locator denture to bring back your healthy, confident smile!