What is an Implant Locator?
Patients who have lost multiple teeth or those who need to have the majority of their teeth extracted may find comfort in the option of a locator denture. This is a type of denture that is supported using dental implants instead of the adhesives and retention that is typically associated with a traditional denture. There are a number of types of dentures that have been well developed over the years to be more aesthetically pleasing and more comfortable for the patient.
One lasting problem of traditional dentures, however, is the frustration that many patients experience due to loose-fitting dentures that constantly need to be adjusted. As we age, we lose bone structure throughout our bodies and that includes in our jaw. Patients that wear a traditional denture often have more trouble with bone loss in the jaw because they do not have any tooth root to help stimulate bone regeneration.
Jaw bone deterioration can be avoided with the use of dental implants! Implants are essentially artificial tooth roots and act in the same way to help bone regeneration. There are types of implant supported dentures available for patients to enjoy the aesthetic benefits of a full smile and the health benefits of bone stability.
What are denture locator implants and how do they work?
Denture locator implants are a specialized dental implant that is surgically placed into the jaw bone to provide a solid anchor for the denture. The implants are placed in specific locations throughout the upper and/or lower jaw in order to effectively hold the denture in place. The number of implants that are required depends on the size and shape of the patient's jaw and the number of teeth being replaced.
Locator implants have a special type of abutment for the denture to snap onto. Locator dentures are a removable type of denture that makes care and maintenance much easier for the patient. Between the locator abutment and denture, a nylon locator attachment is placed in the base of the denture. The exposed portion of each locator implant snaps securely into the locator attachments within the denture. This nylon attachment provides a level of shock absorption and flexibility to the denture while eating and speaking.
Advantages of Implant Locator Dentures
The level of comfort and stability provided by an implant locator denture often makes the extra expense worth it for many patients. The connection is much more solid and secure than a traditional denture which uses adhesives to stay in place. Patients are able to enjoy a greater variety of foods enabling them to enjoy a healthier diet and feel more comfortable and confident eating and speaking in public.
Each additional denture may be the best option for some patients but for those who can endure the implant placement surgery and are otherwise healthy may be a candidate for an implant-based denture. Speak with your dentist to learn what types of dentures are available and what might be the best fit for you and your lifestyle.