Implant-Supported Dentures in Malta, NY

Traditional dentures rest on the gums. They can shift when you eat, move when you speak, and often rely on adhesive to feel secure — if they feel secure at all.

Implant-supported dentures are different.

They attach to implants placed in the jawbone, so they stay in place. You can eat, speak, and go about your day without constantly thinking about them.

Dr. Cocozzo has a patient who wore a traditional upper denture and a lower implant-supported denture for over 20 years. He’s now 95. The lower — the implant-supported one — is still holding strong. It was the traditional upper denture that needed to be replaced.

That difference matters.

As with all implant care, the placement is handled by a specialist Dr. Cocozzo knows and trusts completely.

She completes the denture that attaches to those implants — making sure the final result is stable, functional, and so comfortable you might forget you have them.

How do implant-supported dentures work?

They use two or more implants placed in the jawbone to anchor the denture in place. Instead of resting loosely on the gum tissue, the denture snaps onto the implants and locks in securely. Some implant dentures are removable for cleaning; others are fixed permanently. Dr. Cocozzo will help you understand which option makes sense for your situation during your consultation.

How are implant-supported dentures different from traditional dentures?

Traditional dentures rely on suction or adhesive to stay in place and can shift during eating or speaking. Implant-supported dentures anchor to implants in the bone, which means they’re stable, don’t move, and don’t require adhesive. They also help preserve the jawbone underneath — traditional dentures don’t stimulate the bone the way implants do, which can lead to bone loss over time.

How many implants are needed to support a denture?

It depends on the arch and the level of stability you want. For the lower arch, two implants are often enough to significantly improve stability compared to a traditional denture. More implants can be used for added support or for a fully fixed option. The upper arch typically requires more implants than the lower.

The specialist will evaluate your bone and recommend the setup that gives you the best long-term result.

Am I a candidate for implant-supported dentures?

Most patients missing all or most teeth in an arch are potential candidates. Adequate bone density matters for implant placement — patients who have worn dentures for years may have experienced some bone loss, which the specialist will evaluate. This doesn’t automatically disqualify you, but it’s part of the picture. The sooner you explore it, the more options you typically have. It all starts with a consultation.