In September, I spent 6 days learning about the latest research and developments in the use of implants for dentistry. Dr. John Kois, founder of the Kois Center in Seattle, Washington has continual programs which I attend, and the focus for these six 9 to 10 hour days was both on the use of implants to replace missing teeth, and the indications and best methods for using them to help stabilize and retain removable dentures.

The format is an intimate environment, limited to 25 doctors, who were from the United States, Canada, England and Poland. I feel Dr. Kois is absolutely on the forefront of what is happening in dentistry, and holds a program which is not only enlightening and most current, but at the same time highly dedicated for long term success of the services we provide.

Before Treatment:

Underside of denture, showing attachments:

Bar attached to implants:

Implant supported overdenture in place:

     There are numerous advantages to the use of implants in dentistry. A very popular one is the replacement of a single missing tooth. For decades, in order to have ‘fixed’ or ‘permanent’ replacements, we would need to prepare the adjacent teeth to make a fixed bridge. Many times this requires the reshaping/preparing of teeth which might otherwise not need any treatment. This carries with it the added risk of potential root canal treatment, breakage, or recurring decay. If one of the bridge abutments goes bad, it frequently takes down the entire bridge. If we instead use a dental implant, it will not change the current status or increase the risk of the adjacent teeth. And, they will not get a ‘cavity’!  Persons susceptible to cavities will benefit from this greatly.

     Using implants to help stabilize and retain dentures is truly incredible. Complete dentures rest on the gum ridge, and are only about 1/6 as efficient as having natural teeth. They can move around, pop up, fall down, and the movement frequently makes sores. By using implants we can stabilize them, by fitting a bar and/or attachments to the implants, as the denture grabs onto the bar, being nearly as solid as having teeth in place. Additionally, an implant supported ‘overdenture’ (shown below) does not have to cover the roof of the mouth, which is a big plus for those who have a tendency to gag. We also hear comments that overdenture wearers can taste their food better as well! My clients who have implant retained dentures tell me they go out and eat ribs, peanuts, and chew on ice (although I don’t recommend the last!). Shown below is one of our more recent completions: