A University of Michigan Initiative, Generously Funded by the Michigan Health Endowment Fund to restore smiles and empower seniors from Michigan.

Welcome to the SenIOR (Senior Implant Overdenture Restorative) Program! At the University of Michigan, we believe every senior deserves to live with comfort, dignity, and a confident smile.

The senIOR Program is led by a multidisciplinary team from the University of Michigan's School of Dentistry and School of Public Health. We focus on restoring smiles, empowering seniors, and advancing dental education in Michigan.

  • Restore Function & Quality of Life: Provide implant treatment in the jaw for 100 qualifying seniors, turning existing bottom dentures into stable, functional solutions that improve nutrition, appearance, and confidence.
  • Educate & Empower: Offer dental health education for seniors and caregivers, raising awareness about modern dental treatments.
  • Advance Dental Practice & Access: Offer free continuing education (CE) courses and professional training for SenIOR Program collaborating dentists, especially those serving low-income communities.
  • Drive Evidence-Based Insights: Study and share the impact of implant overdentures on seniors' well-being, supporting future insurance and health policy improvements.
  • Implant Overdenture Treatment for Seniors:
    • Retrofitting existing dentures with dental implants for stability and comfort.
    • Improved ability to chew, speak, and enjoy a wider variety of foods.
    • Significant improvement in confidence and quality of life.
  • Community Education & Outreach:
    • Raise awareness of senior dental issues and solutions.
    • Promote preventive care and oral hygiene.
    • Guide seniors and caregivers to local resources.
  • Professional Training & Education:
    • Hands-on training for dental providers on implant overdenture procedures.
    • Expand access to care, especially in low-income areas.
    • Build a network of skilled providers across Michigan.

Eligibility

  • Age: 60 years or older
  • Residency: Michigan resident
  • Existing Dentures: Currently wear a full denture in good condition
  • Bone Structure: Lack of underlying bone to retain dentures
  • Medical/Dental Suitability: Assessed by our team

How to Apply

  • Call our program coordinator at [Phone Number].
  • Ask your dentist to submit a referral: Referral Form

Stories of Transformation and Patient Voices:
Coming soon!

Coming soon!

Lead Funder

Institutional Home

  • University of Michigan School of Dentistry
  • University of Michigan School of Public Health

Collaborating Organizations

  • Faculty, staff, students, and volunteers who support the SenIOR Program.

SenIOR Program Coordinator

Mailing Address

SenIOR Program
University of Michigan School of Dentistry
Oral Surgery
1011 N. University Ave #2010
Ann Arbor, MI 48109

Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM EST