Fixed Implant Dentures in Springfield, MO

There’s something comforting about the word “fixed.” It brings to mind something solid and secure, unshakable and dependable. Something fastened firmly in place. But it also refers to something that was once broken, worn down, or missing that is now repaired, restored, and made whole again. You can picture it a thousand ways: a loose button sewn back onto your favorite shirt, the creaky step on the porch finally sturdy underfoot, or a wobbly chair steadied again. When it comes to your smile, “fixed” means all of that and more.

If you’re missing all your teeth, you know how frustrating and limiting it feels to hide your smile or struggle with eating and speaking. But fixed implant dentures hold your false teeth securely in place while giving you back what you thought you’d lost: confidence, comfort, and the ability to feel like yourself again.

What Are Fixed Implant Dentures?

Fixed Implant Dentures in Springfield, MO | Free Consultations!When we talk about implant dentures, we tend to separate them into two groups: removable and fixed. Removable implant dentures are the type that you can disconnect from the dental implants yourself. They’re an easy transition from traditional dentures and can be removed for cleaning. Fixed implant dentures work differently. We cement the prosthetic onto the plants, so you’ll never need to remove it yourself.

But removability isn’t the only difference. The construction and materials used also vary. Removable implant dentures, which we sometimes call snap-on dentures, use the same materials as traditional dentures: an acrylic resin base with acrylic or porcelain teeth. While economical, these materials don’t offer quite the same durability or premium feel as those used for fixed implant dentures.

For those seeking a more natural-looking and long-lasting option, fixed implant dentures may be the better choice. Unlike traditional dentures or removable implant dentures, we can make them without a gum base. Instead, the denture is simply a series of connected teeth in a horseshoe shape—something we call a “roundhouse bridge.” This full-arch bridge is made from a high-quality material (one of the strongest used in dentistry) called zirconia. Not only is it incredibly natural-looking, but it’s also remarkably durable, resisting wear and fractures better than other materials.

The Role of Mini Dental Implants

The other key component of fixed implant dentures? Mini dental implants. They’re a smaller, more streamlined version of traditional dental implants that replace missing teeth with less hassle.

  • Traditional implants are 5 mm wide on average, use multiple pieces, and require more extensive surgery and healing.
  • Mini implants are less than 3 mm wide, consist of a single piece, and are gently placed during a single minimally invasive procedure.

With mini implants, you’ll enjoy the “5 less” advantage: they’re less invasive, less painful, require less healing time, take less time in the dental chair, and are less expensive than traditional implants. Despite their smaller size, mini implants are strong and secure enough to anchor full-arch restorations like fixed implant dentures.

Most patients are good candidates for fixed dentures with mini implants, but they do require a few more implants than removable ones. We’ll check your bone structure during your consultation to make sure this option is right for you.

Types of Fixed Implant Dentures

When it comes to fixed implant dentures, there are two main types. Each offers a secure, natural-feeling solution, but they have some key differences.

Semi-Fixed

Semi-fixed dentures, also called semi-removable implant dentures or by the brand name Fix-on-Six®, are securely attached to 6-10 mini implants. They use a special system that keeps them stable for everyday life but allows us to remove the prosthetic during checkups for professional cleaning and maintenance. Patients never remove these dentures on their own at home.

Cemented

Cemented fixed dentures are also referred to as non-removable or permanent implant dentures, and they’re just what they sound like. The prosthetic is permanently attached to 10-12 mini implants with dental cement. Because they use more implants, they’re the most stable option, but they’re also a bit more expensive. They stay in place 24/7, functioning and feeling the most like natural teeth.

Both options are “fixed” in the sense that you never take them out yourself, but they differ in how they’re attached and maintained. We’ll help you choose the best fit based on your goals, lifestyle, and bone structure.

The Process

Getting your smile back with fixed implant dentures is simpler and quicker than you might think. It starts with a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll take a 3D cone beam CT scan (CBCT), perform a thorough exam, and create a personalized treatment plan for you. We’ll also walk you through financing options, if needed, so you can proceed confidently with your treatment.

On the day of your procedure, we’ll numb the area to keep you comfortable and then place the mini dental implants. Each implant takes just a couple of minutes to place, thanks to our minimally invasive technique and decades of experience. At our office, we never want you to be without teeth, so we’ll fit you with transitional dentures. These temporary dentures allow you to leave smiling, even as your implants heal. Once your custom restoration is ready, you’ll return for your final fitting.

Because we use mini implants, healing is fast and comfortable. And taking care of your new smile is simple, too. Just brush as usual and use a Waterpik to keep everything clean and healthy.

Secure Your Smile With Fixed Implant Dentures

Unless we’re talking about cheating in sports, “fixing” something usually means making it better. With a fixed implant denture, we can fix your smile by making it feel whole again and securely affix your dentures so they stay steady with every movement.

Aside from their improved stability, fixed implant dentures are made from premium materials and customized just for you. That means your implant dentures will look, feel, and function so naturally that no one will know they’re not your real teeth.

If you’re ready to secure your smile with fixed implant dentures, we’d love to help. Book a free consultation today to take the next step.

Frequently Asked Questions

A fixed implant denture is the closest thing to having your natural smile back. Patients love how it looks, feels, and functions like real teeth. With the strong bite force it provides, you can confidently enjoy more of the foods you love. And since we cement the denture to your implants, it’s the most stable denture alternative we offer. No more slipping, clicking, or messy adhesives.

Plus, unlike removable options, you don’t need to remove it for cleaning, making your routine much simpler. It’s a low-maintenance, high-confidence way to restore your smile.

The goal with fixed implant dentures is for them to last as long as you need them to! But to keep them functioning properly, you need to take good care of them. Brush twice daily and use a Waterpik (a type of water flosser) to clean under the bridge and around the implants. Be sure to visit us twice a year for routine checkups, so we can help you maintain your beautiful smile.

Remember that while fixed implant dentures are highly durable and resistant to wear, they need regular care to stay at their best—just like natural teeth.

No! Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how easy and comfortable the process is. We’ll thoroughly numb the area, just like we do for other dental procedures, so you won’t feel any pain while we place the mini implants. Since mini implants are minimally invasive, the procedure is quicker and much gentler than traditional implant surgery. You might have a little soreness afterward, but it’s usually mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most people are back to their normal routines within just a few days!