Implant Dentures:
Dr. Nugent does a lot of locator attachment dentures. Locator attachments are an amazing way to stabilize a denture. The dental implants are placed in the jaw bone and allowed to heel. Next, Dr. Nugent screws the locators into the implants. The denture is fitted with nylon sleeves. The nylon sleeves can easily be removed and placed with higher tension sleeves.
Say Goodbye to Loose Dentures: Discover the Benefits of Locator Dentures for the Upper Jaw
Tired of your dentures slipping, clicking, or falling out at the worst possible moments? You’re not alone. Many denture wearers—especially those with upper and lower full dentures—struggle with fit and function. Fortunately, modern dental technology offers a much better option: Locator implant dentures.
Whether you’ve been wearing dentures for years or are exploring tooth replacement for the first time, Locator dentures can dramatically improve your comfort, confidence, and quality of life.
What Are Locator Dentures?
Locator dentures are a type of implant-retained overdenture. Instead of relying on suction, adhesives, or the natural shape of your mouth to stay in place, these dentures “snap” securely onto dental implants using precision attachments called Locator abutments.
Here’s how it works:
Small dental implants are surgically placed into your jawbone.
After healing, special Locator attachments are placed on top of the implants.
Your custom denture has matching connectors that lock onto these attachments, creating a stable, secure fit that stays in place throughout the day.
You can still remove your dentures for cleaning, but when worn, they remain firmly in place—no slipping, no adhesives, and no stress.
How Dental Implants Stabilize the Denture
Dental implants act like artificial tooth roots anchored in the jawbone. Once placed and healed (a process called osseointegration), these implants provide a rock-solid foundation for your denture.
With just two implants in the lower jaw, most patients experience a massive improvement in fit and comfort. For the upper jaw, four or more implants are typically used, especially if the patient prefers an open-palate denture (more on that below). The result is a denture that clicks securely into place and resists movement while chewing, speaking, and smiling.
How Locator Dentures Work on the Upper Jaw
Upper dentures traditionally cover the entire roof of the mouth to create suction for retention. While effective for staying in place, this design can affect taste, speech, and comfort.
With upper Locator dentures, dental implants are placed in strategic locations in the upper jaw to support the denture without relying on full-palate coverage. This allows for an open-palate design, which:
Enhances your ability to taste food
Improves speech clarity
Feels lighter and more natural in your mouth
Reduces the gag reflex in sensitive patients
Typically, four to six implants are used to support an upper Locator denture, depending on bone volume and individual anatomy.
Advantages of Locator Dentures
Locator dentures offer numerous benefits over traditional dentures, including:
Superior retention and stability
No more messy adhesives
Easier chewing and better digestion
Improved speech
Preserved bone and facial structure
Comfortable, secure fit
Easily removable for cleaning
Open-palate option on upper dentures for better taste and comfort
Whether you’re dealing with a loose lower denture or want to eliminate the bulky feeling of an upper denture that covers the roof of your mouth, Locator dentures are a life-changing solution.
Ready to Experience the Confidence of Implant-Supported Dentures?
At our Pasadena, TX dental office, Dr. Michael Nugent provides advanced implant denture solutions using the Locator system. Patients from Pasadena, Deer Park, and La Porte trust Dr. Nugent for precision care and long-term results.
📞 Call today to schedule your implant denture consultation and take the first step toward a more secure, comfortable smile.