Traditional dentures have restored smiles for many patients, but they often come with challenges that affect everyday life. Removable dentures rest on the gums and rely on suction or adhesives to stay in place. While they can restore appearance, many patients experience slipping, sore spots, and difficulty chewing certain foods. Adhesives provide only temporary stability, and frequent adjustments are often required as the jawbone changes shape over time.
Implant-supported dentures solve many of these problems. By attaching dentures to implants placed in the jawbone, patients enjoy stronger support and a more natural feel. Implant-supported dentures allow patients to eat, speak, and smile with confidence, without worrying about their dentures shifting out of place.
At Highsmith Dental in Clyde, NC, Dr. John Highsmith, DDS, and Dr. Sylvia Jernigan, DDS provide implant-supported dentures for patients from Asheville and across Western North Carolina. With years of experience in implant dentistry, Dr. Highsmith helps patients achieve stable, long-lasting tooth replacement. Whether you are searching for dental implants in Asheville NC or affordable dentures in Clyde, you can expect personalized care designed to restore both function and confidence.
Implant-supported dentures are dentures that connect directly to dental implants placed in the jawbone. Unlike traditional removable dentures that rest on the gums and rely on suction or adhesive pastes, these dentures attach to implants for stability. Because they are anchored in the bone, they feel more natural and stay in place while eating, speaking, or smiling.
Patients searching for “denture implants near me” or “dental implants Asheville” often want a solution that solves the common frustrations of loose or uncomfortable dentures. Implant-supported dentures are part of modern implant dentistry in Asheville, offering patients stronger support and improved daily function.
There are several styles of implant-supported dentures. The right choice depends on a patient’s needs, preferences, and budget:
These options give patients flexibility. Some prefer the convenience of removable dentures, while others choose fixed designs for maximum stability.
Implant-supported dentures work because of several connected components. Each plays an important role:
Understanding these parts of a dental implant in Asheville NC helps patients see how the system works. For those in Clyde, Dr. Highsmith provides dental implant restorations that combine all these elements for a stable, long-lasting result.
Implant-supported dentures and traditional dentures both replace missing teeth, but they perform very differently in daily life.
Patients comparing dentures in Asheville to implants often search for “dentures near Asheville NC” or “dental implants vs dentures Asheville NC.” Many find that implant-supported dentures are a stronger, healthier long-term solution.
Patients in Asheville and Clyde often choose implant-supported dentures because they improve more than just appearance. These dentures restore function, confidence, and oral health in ways traditional dentures cannot. Many patients who have struggled with loose or uncomfortable dentures find that implants give them back the ability to live more comfortably day to day.
Beyond stability, they improve chewing strength, nutrition, and protect the jawbone from long-term damage. For patients who search for the best dentures in Asheville NC or top dental implants Asheville NC, implant-supported dentures are often the solution that provides lasting results.
Traditional dentures sit on the gums and may shift when talking or eating. This can lead to sore spots, gum irritation, and anxiety in social situations. Many patients also rely on messy adhesives, which only provide temporary relief.
Implant-supported dentures are anchored to implants in the jawbone, which means they remain secure during daily activities. Patients no longer need to worry about dentures slipping while laughing, enjoying a meal, or speaking in public. For patients in Asheville NC, Clyde, and throughout WNC, this added stability leads to greater peace of mind and comfort every day.
When chewing ability is limited, patients often avoid foods like apples, carrots, nuts, or meats. Over time, this can affect both diet and overall health. Poor chewing can also lead to digestive issues, since food is not broken down properly before swallowing.
Implant-supported dentures restore much of the natural bite force lost with missing teeth. Patients can enjoy a wider range of foods, including healthy choices that are difficult with traditional dentures. This improvement in diet supports better energy levels, stronger immunity, and overall well-being. Patients searching for tooth replacement Asheville NC or looking for solutions to missing teeth Asheville NC often choose implant-supported dentures because they allow them to return to eating the foods they love without restriction.
One of the hidden problems with missing teeth is jawbone loss. When natural teeth are no longer in place, the bone in the jaw begins to shrink. This not only affects how dentures fit but also changes the shape of the face over time, leading to a sunken appearance.
Implants act like natural tooth roots by stimulating the jawbone every time a patient chews. This stimulation helps maintain bone density and prevents the jaw from shrinking. By preserving the bone, implant-supported dentures also protect facial structure and help dentures fit comfortably for many years. Patients seeking a prosthodontist in Asheville NC or considering restorative dentistry in Asheville often benefit from Dr. Highsmith’s expert dental implants because they provide both function and long-term health benefits.
Many patients in Asheville and Western NC qualify for implant-supported dentures, but an evaluation is always required before treatment. During a consultation, Dr. John Highsmith reviews a patient’s medical history, oral health, and lifestyle habits. Key factors include healthy gums, sufficient jawbone to support implants, and overall good health for surgery and healing. Bone density is especially important since implants need a strong foundation. If a patient has lost bone over time, bone grafting may be recommended before implants can be placed.
Most healthy adults missing several teeth are eligible. Patients often begin their search online with phrases like “dental implant dentist Asheville NC” or “implant dentist near me” and then schedule a consultation to confirm candidacy.
Traditional dentures often become loose after several years. This is due to changes in the jawbone, which naturally shrinks when teeth are missing. As a result, dentures no longer fit tightly and may slip during meals or conversations. Even with relines and adhesives, many patients remain frustrated.
Implant-supported dentures solve this issue because they are anchored in place. They do not shift or fall out, which makes eating and speaking easier. For patients searching for a “dentist who specializes in dentures near me” or “affordable dentures Asheville NC,” implant-supported dentures provide lasting stability and comfort.
Individuals who are missing an entire arch or both arches of teeth are often the best candidates for implant-supported dentures. These patients benefit from options such as full-arch dental implants or All-on-4 treatment, which use fewer implants to support a complete set of teeth.
These treatments are designed for patients who want permanent solutions rather than removable dentures. They restore both appearance and chewing function, helping patients return to a normal lifestyle.
Removable dentures often need to be replaced every 5–7 years due to wear, bone changes, or breakage. For patients who want a solution that lasts much longer, implant-supported dentures are the better option. With proper care, implants can last a lifetime, while the denture attachment itself may last 10–15 years or more.
Patients searching for “dental implants in Asheville NC,” “cosmetic dental implants,” or “dental implant process Asheville NC” often choose implant-supported dentures because they offer durability and stability that removable dentures cannot match. This makes them a strong long-term investment for patients who want reliable tooth replacement.
Cost is a frequent concern for patients considering implant-supported dentures. While implants are more expensive at first, they provide better value over time.
| Expense | Traditional Dentures | Implant-Supported Dentures |
|---|---|---|
| Initial cost | $1,500–$3,000 per arch | $12,000–$30,000 per arch |
| Adhesives | $100+ per year | None |
| Relines/adjustments | Every 1–2 years | Rare |
| Replacement | Every 5–7 years | 15+ years |
| Comfort | Variable | High |
Disclaimer: The numbers above reflect general market costs and may vary depending on individual needs, number of implants, and treatment complexity. For accurate pricing tailored to your situation, we encourage you to contact John Highsmith DDS for a consultation.
Patients comparing the cost of dental implants in Asheville NC often see that while implant-supported dentures require a higher upfront investment, they last longer and reduce maintenance costs. This makes them more affordable in the long term. Options like bar overdentures or Hader bar dentures can also provide cost flexibility.
Implant dentures improve function, confidence, and health in ways traditional dentures cannot. They save money by reducing the need for relines, adhesives, and replacements. For patients searching for the “best dentures Asheville NC” or “expert dental implants,” the long-term investment in implants provides greater overall value.
Patients at Highsmith Dental are guided through every stage of treatment with clear instructions and ongoing support. Dr. John Highsmith, DDS, and Dr. Sylvia Jernigan, DDS in Clyde have years of experience helping patients in Asheville and Western NC restore their smiles with implant-supported dentures. The process is broken down into several steps so patients know what to expect from the first consultation to the final result.
Every treatment begins with a consultation. During this appointment, patients meet with Dr. Highsmith to discuss their goals and concerns. Digital X-rays and 3D scans are taken to evaluate the jawbone and ensure it can support implants. Gum health, overall oral health, and medical history are also reviewed.
Based on these findings, Dr. Highsmith develops a personalized treatment plan. The plan outlines how many implants are needed, which type of implant-supported denture will work best, and whether any preparatory treatments such as bone grafting are required. Patients searching for an implant dentist in Asheville or a restorative dentist in Asheville NC often begin their treatment journey at this stage. This first step gives patients the information they need to make an informed decision about moving forward with dental implants.
The next stage is implant placement. During this procedure, an oral surgeon in Asheville NC or a trusted Asheville oral and maxillofacial surgery specialist places titanium implant posts into the jawbone. The number of implants varies depending on whether the patient is receiving a bar-retained denture, ball-retained denture, or a fixed full-arch option such as All-on-4.
After surgery, a healing period of several months is required. This is when the implants fuse with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This bonding process is critical for the implants to provide long-term stability. During healing, patients may be fitted with temporary dentures so they can eat and smile while waiting for their permanent restoration. Regular follow-up visits are scheduled so Dr. Highsmith can monitor healing and make adjustments if needed.
Once the implants have fully healed, the final step is attaching the custom denture. The denture is carefully designed to fit securely onto the abutments and align with the patient’s bite. Depending on the treatment plan, this may be a removable snap-on denture or a fixed option that is only removable by the dentist.
After the denture is attached, adjustments are made to improve comfort and ensure proper function. Patients in Clyde and Asheville also receive education on daily cleaning routines, care instructions, and tips to keep their implant-supported dentures functioning for many years. This step completes the process and gives patients the ability to enjoy eating, speaking, and smiling with confidence again.
Most patients need 4–6 implants per arch. Some designs, like All-on-4, use fewer implants, while other full-arch options may use more for added support. The exact number depends on bone health and the type of denture chosen.
Yes. They are custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of natural teeth. Because they are anchored to implants, they also sit more naturally on the gums compared to traditional dentures.
Implants themselves may last a lifetime with proper care and regular dental visits. The denture portion usually lasts 10–15 years before needing replacement due to normal wear.
Both types are available. Removable options can be taken out for cleaning, while fixed dentures stay in place and feel most like natural teeth. Your dentist will recommend which option fits your lifestyle.
Yes. Many patients begin with traditional dentures and later switch to implant-supported dentures. A dentist will check your bone health first to confirm you are ready for implants.
If you are ready to explore implant-supported dentures, Dr. John Highsmith, DDS, and Dr. Sylvia Jernigan, DDS can help. Patients across Asheville and WNC choose Highsmith Dental for dental implants Asheville NC, affordable dentures in Clyde, and lasting tooth replacement options. Dr. Highsmith is a top Asheville dentist with years of implant dentistry experience.
Schedule your consultation today with a trusted implant dentist near Asheville and discover how implant-supported dentures can restore your confidence.