Implant Dentures | Converting Traditional Dentures Into Implant Dentures

Dentists now have the ability to convert a patient from traditional dentures to implant dentures, and it’s one of the most rewarding upgrades in modern dentistry. Here’s a clear breakdown of how the conversion process works and why dental patients love the result.

⭐ How Dentists Convert Traditional Dentures Into Implant Dentures

Converting a conventional denture into an implant-supported solution is called a denture conversion or retrofit. While not every denture qualifies, many can be adapted—saving the patient time and money.

1. Comprehensive Evaluation

The dentist begins with a full assessment, including:

3D CBCT scan to measure bone quantity and quality
Evaluation of the fit, thickness, and strength of the existing denture
Bite and esthetic check
Medical history review

Once they determine the denture is suitable for conversion, they move to the surgical phase.

2. Placing the Dental Implants

The dentist or specialist places 2–6 implants, depending on the type of implant denture:

• Snap-in denture (overdenture) → 2–4 implants

• Fixed implant denture (All-on-4 style) → 4–6 implants

These implants act like the roots that will secure the converted denture.

3. Healing Phase

Implants typically need 3–4 months to fuse with the bone (osseointegration). During this period:

The patient continues using their traditional denture, often with a soft liner for comfort
The dentist makes necessary adjustments during healing

4. Converting the Existing Denture

Once implants heal, the real magic happens:

🔧 For Snap-In Implant Dentures (Most Common Retrofit)

The dentist will:

Attach locator abutments or ball abutments on the implants
Place female retentive housings inside the patient’s existing denture
Use a chairside material to pick up the housings and permanently integrate them
Adjust the bite and pressure points

This creates a snug, stable “snap-on” fit.

🔧 For Fixed Implant Dentures

If the goal is a fixed bridge:

The traditional denture can sometimes be temporarily adapted
But most often, a new custom fixed prosthesis is eventually fabricated
Traditional dentures usually don't have the rigidity needed for long-term fixed function

Still, the old denture is often used as a temporary fixed hybrid during healing.

5. Final Adjustments & Follow-Up

After conversion, the dentist:

Fine-tunes retention strength
Checks the bite
Ensures the denture seats perfectly on the implants
Educates the patient on cleaning around the implants

Patients typically return every 6 months for maintenance.

⭐ Why Patients Love This Conversion

Patients report massive improvements:

No more slipping or adhesive
Dramatically stronger chewing ability
Better confidence when speaking
Less bone loss thanks to implant stimulation
Lower cost compared to starting with a brand-new implant prosthesis

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