Your Complete Guide to False Teeth with Implants in Durham, NC
- Local Start Dental
- Feb 18
- 15 min read
Updated: Sep 24
Quick Answer: False teeth with implants, also called implant-supported dentures, combine titanium dental implants with dentures for a secure, permanent tooth replacement solution. In Durham, NC, costs range from $5,900-$10,900 per arch at Local Start Dental, with sliding scale fees available based on income. These offer 95% success rates and can last 20+ years, providing superior stability compared to traditional dentures.
Are you struggling with missing teeth and looking for a comfortable, durable solution that feels almost like your natural smile? False teeth with implants could be the answer you've been searching for in the Durham area. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything Triangle residents need to know—from the different types of implant-supported dentures available in Durham to the costs, procedures, and maintenance tips that will help you make an informed decision.
Whether you've been considering implant dentures or want to explore how dental implants compare to conventional dentures, we've got you covered with detailed information specific to the Durham and Triangle area dental market. Making an informed decision about replacing missing teeth is a big deal, and we're here to explain everything in straightforward terms while highlighting the affordable options available at Local Start Dental.
What Are False Teeth with Dental Implants?
False teeth with implants represent a revolutionary advancement in modern dentistry, combining the stability of dental implants with the convenience of dentures to create a superior solution for replacing missing teeth. Unlike conventional dentures that rest on your gums and rely on adhesives or suction, implant-supported dentures use titanium implants surgically embedded into the jawbone to hold dentures firmly in place.
For Durham residents, this means no more worrying about dentures slipping during meals at the Durham Farmer's Market or falling out during conversations. The implants serve as artificial tooth roots that integrate with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration, creating a foundation that's nearly as strong as natural teeth.
Types of Implant-Supported False Teeth Available in Durham
Implant-Supported Dentures (Overdentures) These are full dentures secured with 2-4 implants per arch, offering a secure and long-lasting fit that dramatically improves upon traditional dentures. At Local Start Dental in Durham, these represent our most popular implant denture option, with fees ranging from $5,900-$10,900 per arch depending on the number of implants and complexity of your case.
Fixed Implant-Supported Dentures (All-on-4) A permanent solution that stays in place 24/7, mimicking your real teeth in both function and appearance. These All-on-4 implants use four strategically placed implants per arch to support a complete set of replacement teeth. Durham patients appreciate that these don't require removal for cleaning—you simply brush and floss like natural teeth.
Snap-In Dentures (Bar-Retained or Ball-Retained) Versatile dentures that "snap" onto implants for exceptional stability but can be removed for thorough cleaning. These offer Triangle area patients the best of both worlds—the security of implants with the convenience of removable dentures. Snap-on dentures are particularly popular among Durham seniors who want improved stability without the commitment of permanent fixtures.
Mini Implant Dentures For Durham patients with limited bone density or those seeking a less invasive option, mini implants (smaller diameter posts) can stabilize dentures effectively. These require less bone structure and often have shorter healing times, making them ideal for elderly patients or those with medical considerations.
Each of these options caters to different needs, offering more comfort, durability, and functionality compared to traditional dentures available at other Durham dental practices.
Why Durham Residents Choose to Replace Missing Teeth with Implant-Supported Dentures
Replacing missing teeth with implant-supported dentures doesn't just restore your appearance—it significantly improves your quality of life in ways that matter to active Triangle area residents. Here's why Durham patients are increasingly choosing this advanced solution:
Superior Stability and Comfort
Implant-supported dentures are permanently secure, eliminating the embarrassment and discomfort of slipping dentures. Durham patients report feeling confident eating, speaking, and laughing without worry. Whether you're enjoying Carolina barbecue or speaking at a Duke University event, your teeth stay exactly where they should be.
Preserve Jawbone Health
One of the most significant advantages for Durham residents is bone preservation. Dental implants help combat bone loss by stimulating the jawbone just like natural tooth roots, which isn't possible with traditional dentures. This prevents the "sunken face" appearance that often develops with long-term denture wear and maintains your facial structure.
Natural Appearance and Function
These options offer a fit and function closer to natural teeth, giving you a confident smile that looks completely natural. The custom-designed teeth match your facial features and are crafted to complement your smile, making them virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.
Restored Chewing Ability
Unlike traditional dentures that provide only 25-30% of natural bite force, implant-supported dentures restore up to 70-80% of your natural chewing power. This means Durham patients can enjoy all their favorite foods again—from fresh apples at the farmer's market to steak dinners without restriction.
Long-Term Cost Effectiveness
While the initial investment is higher, implant-supported dentures typically last 20-30 years or more with proper care, compared to traditional dentures that require replacement every 5-7 years. For Durham families, this translates to significant long-term savings and better value.
Implant-Supported Dentures vs. Traditional Dentures: A Durham Perspective
The Limitations of Conventional Dentures
Conventional dentures sit on the gums and rely on adhesives or natural suction to stay in place. While they're a more affordable option upfront (typically $566-$1,375 per arch at Local Start Dental), they come with significant challenges that impact Durham residents' quality of life:
Constant Movement: Dentures can slip during eating or speaking, causing embarrassment
Adhesive Dependence: Daily application of messy adhesives is required
Reduced Function: Limited to soft foods, restricting dietary choices
Gum Irritation: Pressure points can cause painful sore spots
Bone Loss: No stimulation of the jawbone leads to progressive facial changes
Frequent Replacement: Need replacement every 5-7 years due to bone changes
The Implant-Supported Advantage for Triangle Area Residents
Unlike conventional dentures, implant-supported dentures mimic the function of natural teeth, providing a lasting solution with dramatically improved usability.
For Durham patients at Local Start Dental, the choice becomes clear when considering long-term outcomes and quality of life improvements.
The Dental Implants Procedure: What Durham Patients Can Expect
The process of getting implant dentures at our Durham clinic involves multiple carefully planned stages. Here's a detailed look at what Triangle area patients can expect:
Phase 1: Initial Consultation and Planning
Your journey begins with a comprehensive examination at Local Start Dental's Jackson Street facility in Durham. Our experienced prosthodontists will:
Evaluate your oral health and remaining teeth
Take detailed X-rays or 3D CT scans to assess jawbone density
Discuss your treatment goals and lifestyle needs
Review your medical history for any contraindications
Explain all available options and associated costs
Determine if you qualify for our sliding scale fee program
This thorough planning phase ensures Durham patients receive personalized treatment that addresses their specific needs and circumstances.
Phase 2: Preparatory Procedures (If Needed)
Some Durham patients require preliminary treatments before implant placement:
Tooth Extractions: Any remaining damaged teeth must be removed. Local Start Dental offers tooth extraction services with careful attention to preserving bone structure.
Bone Grafting: If bone density is insufficient, grafting procedures can build adequate foundation for implants
Treatment of Gum Disease: Periodontal health must be established before surgery
Phase 3: Implant Placement Surgery
The surgical phase is performed at our comfortable Durham facility with careful attention to patient comfort:
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia ensures you're comfortable; sedation options available for anxious patients
Implant Insertion: Titanium implants are precisely positioned in the jawbone at strategic locations
Healing Caps: Protective caps are placed over implants
Temporary Solution: Temporary dentures or a healing denture is provided so you're never without teeth
Duration: The procedure typically takes 2-4 hours depending on the number of implants
Most Durham patients report that the procedure is far more comfortable than anticipated, with minimal discomfort during and after surgery.
Phase 4: Healing and Osseointegration (3-6 Months)
This critical phase allows the implants to integrate with your jawbone:
Regular check-ups at our Durham clinic to monitor healing progress
Soft diet recommendations to protect healing implants
Temporary teeth adjusted as needed for comfort
Most patients can return to work within 1-3 days
During this period, you'll wear temporary dentures so you can continue normal daily activities in Durham without being self-conscious about your smile.
Phase 5: Abutment Placement and Final Impressions
Once osseointegration is complete:
Abutments (connector pieces) are attached to implants
Detailed impressions are taken of your mouth
Color and shape of final teeth are carefully selected to match your features
Minor healing period (1-2 weeks) allows gum tissue to form around abutments
Phase 6: Final Denture Attachment and Adjustment
The exciting final phase where Durham patients receive their permanent teeth:
Custom-fabricated dentures are precisely attached to implants
Bite alignment is carefully adjusted for optimal comfort
Detailed care instructions provided
Follow-up appointments scheduled to ensure proper fit and function
The overall success rate of dental implants exceeds 95% when placed by experienced prosthodontists like those at Local Start Dental, making this a highly reliable solution for Durham residents.
Implant Denture Costs in Durham, NC: Affordable Options at Local Start Dental
Understanding the financial investment is crucial for Triangle area residents planning their treatment. At Local Start Dental, our nonprofit status allows us to offer significantly more affordable implant denture services compared to private practices in Durham and surrounding areas.
Financial Assistance for Durham Residents
Sliding Scale Fee Program
Durham and Triangle area residents may qualify for reduced fees based on household income. Our sliding scale can reduce treatment costs for qualifying families. Income verification and a simple application process determine eligibility.
Flexible Financing Options
CareCredit: Financing options available
Proceed Finance: Alternative financing available
Insurance Considerations While we do not work with private dental insurance directly such as Humana, BCBS, or Aetna, we can provide necessary records for claim submission. In combination with our sliding scale, this can result in maximized savings for our patients. Some insurance plans may cover portions of the treatment, such as extractions or the denture portion.
NC Medicaid Acceptance Local Start Dental accepts NC Medicaid for necessary tooth extractions and some preliminary procedures, helping Durham's Medicaid patients access comprehensive care.
Long-Term Value Analysis for Durham Patients
While the upfront investment is higher than traditional dentures, consider the long-term value:
Traditional Dentures: $1,375 initial + $1,375 every 5-7 years = $5,500+ over 20 years, plus ongoing adhesive costs ($300-500 annually)
Implant-Supported Dentures: $5,900-$10,900 one-time investment lasting 20-30+ years
The long-term benefits and longevity make implant-supported dentures a worthwhile investment for Durham families, especially when proper maintenance can help them last a lifetime.
Comparing All Tooth Replacement Options for Durham Patients
Traditional Removable Dentures
Pros:
Most affordable initial cost ($566-$1,375 per arch at Local Start Dental)
Non-invasive procedure with no surgery required
Quick solution for replacing missing teeth (2-3 weeks)
Familiar option with established track record
Easy to adjust or remake as needed
Cons:
Can feel uncomfortable or loose over time as bone changes
Requires daily adhesives for stability
May cause gum irritation or persistent sore spots
Limited chewing ability (only 25-30% of natural bite force)
Accelerates jawbone loss leading to poor fit over time
Affects speech and pronunciation
Social anxiety about dentures slipping
Implant-Supported Dentures (Overdentures)
Pros:
Superior stability and comfort compared to traditional dentures
Significantly improved chewing ability (70-80% of natural)
Helps preserve jawbone health by preventing bone loss
Long-lasting with proper care (20-30+ years)
Can be removed for thorough cleaning
Natural appearance and confident smile
More affordable than fixed implant dentures
Cons:
Higher upfront cost than traditional dentures
Requires surgical procedure for implant placement
Healing and adjustment periods take 4-8 months
Not suitable for everyone depending on bone density and health
Requires commitment to oral hygiene routine
Fixed Implant-Supported Dentures
Pros:
Most natural feeling and function of any option
Permanent solution - never removed
Maximum chewing power and dietary freedom
Optimal bone preservation
Brush and care for like natural teeth
Highest patient satisfaction rates
Cons:
Highest cost option
Requires adequate bone density
Surgical procedure with longer recovery
More complex to repair if issues arise
Cannot be removed for cleaning
Dental Bridges
Pros:
Aesthetic appeal blending seamlessly with natural teeth
Faster than implants as no extensive surgery required
More affordable than full-arch implant solutions
Durable with proper care (10-15 years)
No removable appliances
Cons:
Requires grinding down adjacent healthy teeth for support
Does not address jawbone loss
Limited lifespan compared to implants
Only suitable for small gaps (1-3 missing teeth)
Regular maintenance needed to prevent decay
For Durham patients at Local Start Dental, understanding these comparisons helps in making an informed decision that balances budget, lifestyle needs, and long-term oral health goals.
Maintenance and Aftercare for Implant-Supported Dentures in Durham
The long-term success of your implant-supported dentures depends heavily on proper care and maintenance. Durham patients at Local Start Dental receive comprehensive instructions, but here are the essential care guidelines:
Daily Cleaning Routine
For Removable Implant Dentures:
Remove dentures and rinse after meals
Brush dentures daily with soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner
Clean around implant attachments with specialized brush
Soak overnight in denture cleaning solution
Rinse implant abutments with antimicrobial rinse
Total daily care time: 10-15 minutes
For Fixed Implant Dentures:
Brush after meals like natural teeth
Use interdental brushes to clean around implants
Water flosser highly recommended for hard-to-reach areas
Antimicrobial rinse to prevent infection
Total daily care time: 5-10 minutes
Regular Professional Care at Local Start Dental
Durham patients should maintain regular dental visits:
First Year: Appointments every 3 months to monitor healing and function
Ongoing: Check-ups every 6 months for professional cleaning and evaluation
X-rays: Annual imaging to ensure implant and bone health
Adjustments: As needed for optimal comfort and fit
Dietary Considerations for Triangle Area Residents
While implant-supported dentures dramatically expand dietary options compared to traditional dentures, some precautions optimize longevity:
Foods to Enjoy Freely:
Fresh fruits and vegetables from Durham Farmer's Market
Lean meats and proteins
Whole grains and fibrous foods
Crunchy foods like apples and carrots
Carolina barbecue (in moderation)
Foods to Approach with Caution:
Extremely hard foods (hard candy, ice, unpopped popcorn kernels)
Very sticky foods (taffy, caramel)
Foods requiring front teeth tearing (corn on the cob, ribs - cut off bone first)
Protecting Your Investment
Avoid These Habits:
Smoking or tobacco use (dramatically increases failure risk)
Using teeth as tools (opening packages, bottles)
Grinding or clenching teeth (nightguard recommended)
Neglecting oral hygiene routine
Skipping regular dental check-ups
Managing Potential Issues
Durham patients should contact Local Start Dental immediately if experiencing:
Loosening of implants or dentures
Pain, swelling, or bleeding around implants
Changes in bite or fit
Cracks or damage to denture teeth
Signs of infection (fever, drainage, severe pain)
With proper care and regular visits to our Durham clinic, your implant-supported dentures should serve you reliably for 20-30 years or more, making them an excellent long-term investment in your oral health and quality of life.
Advanced Implant Denture Solutions at Local Start Dental
Computer-Guided Implant Placement
Our Durham prosthodontists use advanced 3D imaging and computer planning to ensure implants are placed with maximum precision, improving success rates and reducing healing time for Triangle area patients.
Hybrid Denture Solutions
For patients with some remaining healthy teeth, hybrid solutions combining implants with remaining natural teeth can provide optimal function while preserving what nature gave you.
Why Durham Residents Choose Local Start Dental for Implant Dentures
Nonprofit Mission, Community-Focused Care
As Durham's nonprofit dental clinic, Local Start Dental is uniquely positioned to serve the Triangle community. Our mission isn't profit—it's providing accessible, high-quality dental care to all Durham residents, regardless of their ability to pay. This commitment allows us to offer implant dentures at significantly reduced costs compared to private practices.
Prosthodontic Specialization
Unlike general dentists, our team includes board-certified prosthodontists—specialists in tooth replacement and restoration. This advanced training, typically requiring 3 additional years beyond dental school, ensures Durham patients receive the highest level of expertise for their implant denture treatment.
Student Training Program Benefits
Local Start Dental's partnership with dental schools means you receive care from highly motivated dental students under the direct supervision of experienced prosthodontists. This educational model allows us to offer premium care at reduced costs while ensuring thorough, careful treatment. Students spend extra time with each patient, providing detailed attention that many private practices cannot offer.
Comprehensive Services Under One Durham Roof
From initial tooth extraction to final denture placement, we provide all implant denture services at our convenient Jackson Street location in Durham. This continuity of care ensures optimal results, seamless communication, and a comfortable treatment experience without visiting multiple specialists.
Serving the Entire Triangle Area
While located in Durham, Local Start Dental proudly welcomes patients from throughout the Triangle, including Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Cary, Hillsborough, and surrounding communities. Our central Durham location with easy highway access makes us the preferred choice for Triangle residents seeking affordable, high-quality implant denture care.
Proven Track Record of Success
Our prosthodontists have successfully placed thousands of implants with success rates exceeding 95%. Durham patients trust Local Start Dental for life-changing implant denture treatments that restore both function and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About False Teeth with Implants in Durham
Are dentures with implants worth it?
Absolutely! For Durham residents, implant dentures provide excellent functionality, stability, and a natural feel that dramatically improves quality of life. While the initial investment is higher, the long-term benefits—including 20-30 year lifespan, improved health, and enhanced confidence—make them a worthwhile investment. Local Start Dental's sliding scale program makes them accessible to more Triangle families.
What are dentures with implants called?
They're known by several names: implant-supported dentures, implant-retained dentures, overdentures, snap-in dentures, and fixed implant dentures. The specific name depends on the attachment method and whether they're removable or permanently fixed.
How long do you go without teeth when getting implants?
You'll never be without teeth during treatment at Local Start Dental. We provide temporary dentures or a healing denture immediately after implant placement. While the healing period for permanent attachment takes 3-6 months, you'll have functional temporary teeth throughout the entire process.
What is the procedure for implant-supported dentures?
The process involves: (1) comprehensive consultation and planning, (2) implant placement surgery, (3) 3-6 month healing period with temporary teeth, (4) abutment placement, and (5) final denture attachment. The entire process takes 4-8 months but results in a highly durable, long-lasting solution.
What are snap-in dentures?
Snap-in dentures are removable dentures that attach securely to implants using locator attachments or ball-and-socket connectors. They provide much better stability than traditional dentures while maintaining the convenience of removal for thorough cleaning. Durham patients appreciate the balance of security and practicality.
What is the difference between conventional dentures and implant-supported dentures?
Conventional dentures rest on the gums without any support from implants and rely on adhesives or suction for retention. Implant-supported dentures are anchored to implants in the jawbone, providing superior stability, improved chewing function, better comfort, and prevention of bone loss that typically occurs with traditional dentures.
Do denture implants help prevent bone loss?
Yes! This is one of the most significant benefits for Durham patients. Denture implants stimulate the jawbone just like natural tooth roots, helping to reduce and even reverse bone loss that typically occurs when teeth are missing for an extended period. This preserves facial structure and prevents the "sunken" appearance common with long-term denture wear.
Are removable dentures a good option?
Removable dentures are a more affordable option for replacing missing teeth and can be a good choice for Durham patients not ready for implant-supported options. However, snap-in dentures combine the convenience of removable dentures with dramatically improved stability, making them an excellent middle-ground solution.
Can periodontal disease affect my ability to get denture implants?
Periodontal disease can weaken the jawbone and surrounding tissues, making it more challenging to place implants. However, with proper treatment at Local Start Dental's Durham clinic, many patients with gum disease history can still be excellent candidates for denture implants once their oral health is restored.
What are complete dentures?
Complete dentures are a full denture option designed to replace all teeth in the upper, lower, or both arches of the mouth. While traditional complete dentures rest on the gums, implant-supported complete dentures offer added stability, comfort, and function compared to conventional options.
How much do false teeth with implants cost in Durham?
At Local Start Dental, implant-supported dentures range from $5,900-$10,900 per arch. Our sliding scale program can further reduce costs for qualifying Triangle area residents based on household income.
Will my insurance cover implant dentures?
Many insurance plans don't cover implants, however coverage is improving as implants become the standard of care. While we do not work with private dental insurance directly such as Humana, BCBS, or Aetna, we can provide necessary records for claim submission. In combination with our sliding scale, this can result in maximized savings for Durham patients.
Take the Next Step Toward Your New Smile in Durham
Replacing missing teeth with implant-supported dentures isn't just about aesthetics—it's about comfort, functionality, and long-term oral health for Durham and Triangle area residents. From preserving natural bone structure to offering a secure fit that mimics natural teeth, these solutions stand out as the future of modern dentistry.
At Local Start Dental, our nonprofit mission combined with prosthodontic expertise means Durham patients receive premium implant denture care at prices that make this life-changing treatment accessible to more families. Our sliding scale fee program, flexible financing options, and commitment to quality ensure that financial barriers don't prevent you from achieving the smile and quality of life you deserve.
Schedule Your Durham Implant Denture Consultation
Take the first step toward a confident, secure smile that will serve you for decades to come. Our experienced prosthodontists will evaluate your specific situation and develop a personalized treatment plan that fits both your needs and budget.
Ready to restore your smile with false teeth and implants?
Call Local Start Dental today at 919.569.5533 or contact us online for expert advice and personalized recommendations on choosing the best implant-supported dentures for your needs.
Don't wait—every month without proper tooth replacement allows additional bone loss and makes future treatment more complex. Join the thousands of satisfied Durham patients who have transformed their lives with implant-supported dentures at Local Start Dental.
Local Start Dental - Your Partner in Oral Health Excellence Serving Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, and the Triangle Area 919.569.5533 | 370 Jackson Street, Durham, NC 27701
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Every patient's situation is unique, and treatment recommendations may vary based on individual circumstances, medical history, oral health conditions, and bone density.
Dental implant success rates, healing times, and costs mentioned are general estimates and may differ for individual patients. Only a qualified dental professional can determine if you are a candidate for implant-supported dentures after a thorough examination and consultation.
The content on this page is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any dental condition. Always seek the advice of qualified healthcare providers, including prosthodontists and oral surgeons, regarding any questions you may have about implant dentures or other tooth replacement treatments.
Local Start Dental's fee schedules, financing options, and sliding scale programs are subject to change and qualification requirements. Contact our office directly for current pricing and eligibility information.
By reading this article, you acknowledge that Local Start Dental is not liable for any decisions made based on the information provided herein. Individual results may vary, and there are risks associated with any surgical procedure, including dental implant placement.
