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Removable Prosthesis on Implants

An optimal way to restore the jaw on a limited budget when a full removable prosthesis is not desired
 

At the "Kiadent" Clinic for Advanced Prosthetics, you can get removable dental prostheses fixed on traditional or mini-implants at prices lower than the average cost in Odessa.


Removable prosthesis on implants — what it is and how convenient it is

A removable prosthesis on implants is a reliable alternative to traditional plate prostheses that adhere to the oral mucosa through suction.

It replaces a fully edentulous arch and remains securely in place without adhesive creams or gels.

Components:

  • Acrylic base — artificial gums.
  • Plastic crowns — artificial teeth.
  • Fixation elements — some are embedded in the prosthesis, while others are attached to the upper parts of titanium implants.

Also called overdentures or semi-removable prostheses

Prosthodontists often call these designs semi-removable, as they can be removed at home with slight effort.

Patients call them overdentures because they cover the entire edentulous jaw.


Prices for removable prostheses on implants

Full list of services for removable prostheses on implants:

  • Full removable plate prosthesis supported by two implants.
  • Full removable plate prosthesis supported by four implants.
  • Full removable plate prosthesis on a cast bar supported by two implants.
  • Full removable plate prosthesis on a cast bar supported by four implants.
  • Full removable plate prosthesis on a milled bar supported by four implants.
  • Full removable plate prosthesis supported by six implants on a milled bar.

Indications for installing a removable prosthesis

  • Absence of most or all teeth.
  • Temporary solution before non-removable implant-supported prosthetics.
  • Desire to improve the fixation of an old removable prosthesis.

Types of fixation for removable prostheses on implants

Snap-on fixation

Classic or mini-implants are fitted with abutments, serving as supports for the removable structure. The upper part of the abutments is ball- or ellipse-shaped, fitting into recesses in the prosthesis. The parts snap together securely.

There are two types of abutments: ball-shaped and Locator abutments. The principle of attachment is the same, but the shape of the upper part differs. In terms of comfort, Locator fixation is superior—it is easier to remove and clean the prosthesis.

Advantages:

  • Affordable price (easier to manufacture).
  • Suitable for adapting an existing dental prosthesis.
  • Easy to maintain.

Disadvantages:

  • Fixation reliability diminishes over time (periodic replacement of silicone liners is required).
  • Bone atrophy under pressure from the prosthesis may necessitate relining.

Bar-supported fixation

A metal bar connects classic implants, evenly distributing chewing pressure across the artificial roots. The bar fits into a groove in the prosthesis base, secured by silicone retainers.

Bars can be manufactured using casting, CAD/CAM technology, or welding. The best option is a milled bar. Cast bars can cause strain on the implants, increasing the risk of rejection.

Advantages:

  • Enhanced stability of the structure.
  • Minimal risk of implant overload.
  • Long service life.

Disadvantages:

  • High cost due to complex manufacturing.
  • Requires meticulous hygiene around the implants (risk of inflammation in the implant area).

As reliable as crowns on natural teeth

Installing a removable prosthesis on a milled bar fixed to titanium roots is nearly as reliable, functional, and durable as non-removable prosthetics!


Types of implants for removable prostheses

Classic implants

Classic implants range from 10 to 25 mm in length and up to 6 mm in diameter. They require sufficient bone volume but provide stable support for the prosthetic structure.

Mini-implants

Mini-implants are 6 to 10 mm long and up to 2.4 mm in diameter. They can be placed without bone grafting, even with limited bone volume. This is an optimal solution for budget-conscious patients, but they are less reliable compared to classic dental implants. A full bridge on mini-implants limits dietary options—hard foods like nuts and tough meat must be avoided.

How many implants are recommended for a removable dental prosthesis?

For the upper jaw, characterized by softer bone, it is best to support the removable prosthesis on at least four classic titanium implants. Mini-implants are not recommended for the upper jaw.

For the lower jaw (with denser bone), an overdenture can be supported by at least four mini-implants. This is preferable to a removable prosthesis on two classic titanium implants.


Steps to install a semi-removable prosthesis

  • 1. Step. Consultation and diagnostics

    The implantologist performs a visual and instrumental examination of the oral cavity, assessing the initial condition of the teeth and mucosa. A CT scan evaluates the jawbone, TMJ, blood vessels, and soft tissues. Optimal jawbone areas for implant placement are identified, ruling out hidden pathologies, inflammations, or neoplasms.

  • 2. Step. Oral cavity preparation

    Any remaining teeth are treated, and inflammation is eliminated. If necessary, bone grafting is performed to increase bone volume for implant stability.

  • 3. Step. Implant placement

    The implantologist places 2 or 4 implants. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is painless for the patient.

  • 4. Step. Prosthetics

    Based on impressions, the dental lab manufactures the prosthetic structure. For mini-implants, it is fixed on the third day post-surgery; for classic implants, on days 3 to 7.


Advantages and disadvantages

Compared to traditional removable prosthetics, a removable prosthesis on implants has several advantages:

  • Reliability. A full acrylic prosthesis adheres poorly to the oral mucosa, especially with significant bone atrophy. Fixing the prosthesis on two or four implants eliminates the risk of it falling out during conversation or chewing.
  • Comfort. Fixation of the semi-removable prosthesis on implants reduces the size of its base (on the upper jaw, it minimally covers the palate). It doesn’t irritate the gums, distort speech, or diminish taste sensitivity.
  • Cost. The cost of manufacturing and installation is lower than that of non-removable prosthetics.

However, compared to non-removable prosthetics, a removable prosthesis on implants has some disadvantages:

  • Presence of artificial gums. Although relatively small, artificial gums make the prosthesis slightly less comfortable. On the other hand, they conceal uneven gum contours caused by jawbone atrophy.
  • Lifespan. The service life is slightly shorter than that of non-removable prostheses supported by implants.

Comparison of traditional removable prostheses with implant-supported removable prostheses

Traditional removable prosthesisImplant-supported removable prosthesis
Fixation reliability
Poor, may fall outGood, does not shift or fall out
Support
GumsImplants
Size
BulkyCompact
Adaptation period
Long (7-14 days)Quick (2-4 days)
Comfort
Causes gum irritation, pain, and bleedingDoes not irritate soft tissues
Relining
FrequentRare
Bone atrophy
Up to 2 mm per yearUp to 1 mm per year (with bar fixation)
Service life
Up to 5 yearsUp to 10 years

Comparison with non-removable prosthetics

Non-removable prosthesis on implantsRemovable prosthesis on implants
Fixation
HighModerate
Dietary restrictions
MinimalRecommended to avoid hard foods
Removal
Only in the clinicSelf-removable
Bone tissue atrophy
StopsSlowly progresses
Service life
Up to 20 yearsUp to 10 years

Non-removable prosthetics on implants — the best solution for rehabilitating a fully edentulous jaw ☝️


Questions and answers

  • What is the difference between a removable prosthesis on implants and a non-removable one?

    Firstly, a removable prosthesis can be removed independently, whereas a non-removable prosthesis requires removal by a dentist in the clinic (it is secured with screws or dental cement).

    Secondly, a removable prosthesis includes an artificial gum base. Food particles can accumulate underneath, necessitating periodic removal for cleaning. Non-removable prostheses lack artificial gums.

  • Can an old removable prosthesis be adapted to implants?

    Yes, if it is less than three years old. However, modifications are required in a dental lab, such as creating recesses for a bar (if bar fixation is used) or adding attachments for ball abutments or Locators. One major drawback of this solution is that the old prosthesis for the upper jaw will fully cover the palate, whereas a new design would be thinner and only partially cover the palate.

  • How should you care for a removable prosthesis supported by implants?

    Artificial teeth should be cleaned twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Professional cleaning of the prosthesis in a dental clinic is recommended at least once every six months.

  • When are two implants insufficient for fixing a removable prosthesis?
    • The patient is under 60 years old.
    • The patient has no prior experience wearing removable prosthetic structures.
    • Antagonists are natural teeth or non-removable structures.
    • The patient has bruxism.

    In such clinical situations, the All-on-4 or All-on-6 technique is a better choice.

Removable Prosthesis on Implants

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