Restore stability and confidence with implant-supported dentures—secure, long-lasting tooth replacement designed for comfort, function, and a natural-looking smile.
Losing all of your teeth, or facing that reality, can feel overwhelming. You may worry about how you will eat comfortably, speak clearly, or simply feel confident in your own skin. Traditional dentures can help, but many patients find them unstable, uncomfortable, or limiting over time. If you are looking for a solution with greater security and a more natural feel, implant-supported dentures may be the right option for you.
Implant-supported dentures combine the coverage of a full denture with the stability of dental implants, giving you a prosthetic arch anchored directly into the jawbone. Unlike conventional dentures, which rest on the gums and rely on suction or adhesives for retention, implant-supported dentures attach to implant posts placed in the jaw. This gives you the confidence to eat, speak, and smile without worrying about slipping or shifting. At Church Family Dentistry, Dr. Will Church offers restorative dentistry in Durham with a patient-first approach, taking time to listen to your concerns and walk you through every step of the process so you feel informed and at ease.
Implant-supported dentures are built around titanium implant posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Once placed, the bone gradually fuses around the posts through a process called osseointegration, creating a stable foundation for the denture prosthetic. Implant-supported dentures allow for thorough cleaning of the implant abutments and may offer greater long-term retention compared to conventional removable dentures.
There are two primary types of implant-supported dentures, and the right choice depends on your bone health, anatomy, and personal goals.
Fixed implant-supported dentures, sometimes called implant-supported bridges or full-arch fixed prosthetics, are permanently attached to the implants and cannot be removed at home. They function much like natural teeth and require the same daily oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing around the implant posts. Removable implant-supported dentures, also called implant-retained overdentures, snap onto the implant attachments and can be removed for cleaning. They offer more stability than traditional dentures while still allowing you to take them out at night.
During your consultation at Church Family Dentistry, Dr. Church will assess which type aligns with your needs and review your options clearly before any treatment begins.
Treatment for implant-supported dentures typically unfolds across several appointments, allowing time for healing and precision at each stage.
Before placing implants, we conduct a thorough evaluation of your oral health and jawbone density. Dr. Church uses advanced cone beam imaging technology to capture a three-dimensional view of your jaw structure, which allows for precise implant planning. This diagnostic step is critical because adequate bone volume is necessary to support the implant posts. If bone loss has occurred, a bone graft may be recommended prior to implant placement, and Dr. Church will discuss whether this applies to your case.
Once your candidacy is confirmed, the implant posts are placed during a surgical procedure. Most patients require two to four implants per arch for a removable overdenture, though full-arch fixed prosthetics may require four to six or more implants depending on the design and your bone anatomy. Following placement, a healing period allows the implants to integrate with the bone before the final prosthetic is attached.
After osseointegration is complete, we fit and attach your denture to the implant abutments. We take care to ensure the bite is comfortable, the fit is secure, and the appearance looks natural. Our team will also walk you through how to properly clean and maintain your new prosthetic. Routine visits after placement help us monitor the health of your implants and surrounding tissue.
Implant-supported dentures may be a good fit if you are fully edentulous, meaning you have lost all of your teeth in one or both arches. Good candidates typically have sufficient jawbone density to support implants, are in reasonable overall health, and do not smoke, as tobacco use can affect implant success. Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, may also impact candidacy and will be reviewed during your consultation.
If you have worn traditional dentures for a long time, you may have experienced bone resorption, which happens when the jawbone shrinks over time without tooth roots to stimulate it. In some cases, a bone graft can restore enough volume to support implants. During your evaluation, Dr. Church will use cone beam imaging and a full review of your dental and medical history to determine whether implant-supported dentures are a viable path forward for you. Learn more about the dental implant options we offer and what to expect from the process.
Maintaining your implant-supported denture is straightforward, though the specific care routine depends on which type you receive. For removable overdentures, you should remove the prosthetic nightly, clean it with a denture brush, and rinse the implant attachments with a soft brush.Â
For fixed prosthetics, brushing around the implants twice daily and using an interdental brush or water flosser to clean beneath the bridge is essential. Regular professional cleanings are also important to protect the health of the implant sites and surrounding tissue. Our team will provide detailed care instructions tailored to your specific prosthetic.
At Church Family Dentistry, we take a personal approach to every restorative case. Dr. Church, who completed his training at UNC School of Dentistry, combines advanced technology with the kind of open, honest communication that makes a real difference in patient comfort and confidence. Rather than overwhelming you with complicated treatment plans, he takes time to make sure you fully understand your options before moving forward. You can learn more about Dr. Church and his approach to patient care on his provider profile.
We also offer flexible financing options through Cherry, Sunbit, and Proceed to help make implant-supported dentures accessible. Our team will be glad to review payment options with you during your consultation. If you are ready to take the first step toward a more stable, confident smile, we invite you to contact our office to schedule your consultation with Dr. Church in Durham, NC.
Experience the difference that advanced technology and compassionate care can make. At Church Dentistry, we’re committed to providing Durham residents with exceptional dental care in a comfortable, modern environment. Whether you need a routine cleaning, cosmetic enhancement, or complex restorative work, our team is here to help you achieve optimal oral health and the confident smile you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover why patients throughout Durham trust us with their smiles.
When you visit Church Family Dentistry, you’re in the hands of a dentist who approaches every appointment with genuine curiosity about your goals — not just your teeth. Dr. Will Church combines advanced training from UNC with a deep passion for cutting-edge dental technology, creating an environment where patients feel heard, valued, and confident in every decision they make about their care.
Quality dental care should be accessible to everyone. At Church Family Dentistry, we work hard to make treatment fit your budget — whether you have insurance, prefer financing, or simply want flexible payment solutions.
While we are proudly out-of-network, we file PPO benefits on your behalf to maximize your savings. We accept and process most major dental insurance plans — Medicaid, Tricare, and VA are the only exceptions.
We offer multiple financing options so care stays within reach — from simple out-of-pocket costs to larger treatment investments. Apply in minutes and get a decision quickly.
We happily accept Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts. Use your pre-tax dollars for any dental procedure — from routine cleanings to cosmetic treatment and implants.
Questions about your coverage? Call us at (919) 220-6553 — we’re happy to verify your benefits before your appointment.
At Church Family Dentistry, every patient’s experience matters deeply to us. Hear firsthand why Durham families trust Dr. Church with their smiles.
Church Family Dentistry is conveniently located in Durham, NC — right next to Duke Regional Hospital, with comfortable operatories overlooking beautifully wooded surroundings.
Address
2711 N Duke St #B
Durham, NC 27704
Phone
(919) 220-6553
Schedule Online
Request an Appointment
| Monday | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Taking the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile is simple. Call our Durham office or request an appointment online — we’re here to answer your questions and create a personalized plan that fits your life.
Whether you’re a new patient or returning for care, Dr. Church and his team will take time to truly understand your goals before recommending any treatment.
The content on this website has been reviewed by Dr. Will Church for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Treatment outcomes vary based on individual needs and clinical factors. Contact Church Family Dentistry at (919) 220-6553 for personalized care or dental emergencies.
