When it comes to replacing a full dental arch with implant supported dentures, patients often have many questions about the process. This article answers some commonly asked questions about implant dentures.
The structure of implant supported dentures is exactly as the name sounds; a full denture supported by dental implants. The implants are titanium posts placed inside the jawbone to anchor the dentures, thus keeping them stable for dental functions like talking and chewing. This method uses four to six implants placed along the upper or lower jaw. This contrasts with regular dentures, which rely on adhesives and gum suction.
With implant dentures, patients will not have to deal with the discomfort or irritation caused by unstable regular dentures. They can enjoy their regular meals and speak or laugh confidently without worrying about their denture slipping or falling out.
Even those who have been using regular dentures for several years can still opt for implant supported dentures. They are often the ones who appreciate the remarkable benefits of having a stable dental restoration. In some cases, the dentist can use the existing dentures as a fixed temporary option as the patient recover from implant placement. However, if the patient has been missing their natural teeth for too long, they may have experienced bone loss, meaning a bone graft procedure will be required to place the implants successfully.
The people who are qualified to get implant-supported dentures are missing a significant portion of their natural teeth, probably due to multiple dental cavities, untreated gum disease or accidents. The bottom line is that they must have reached a stage where starting afresh with a new dental restoration is advisable. However, if there are still many healthy, natural teeth left on the jaw, the dentist will recommend other alternatives to restore dental function, such as implant-supported bridges, crowns or partial dentures. The goal is always to save natural teeth when possible.
After the insertion of dental implant posts inside the jaw, patients will go through a stage called osseointegration – during which the bone fuses with the implants to ensure the success of the dental restoration process. The implant mimics the function of natural tooth roots. After three to six months, the patient will be ready to get permanent dentures affixed to the implants if everything goes well.
Regular dentures can withstand between five to seven years of use before needing repair or replacement with proper care. Implant-supported dentures can survive up to ten years or more without repair or replacement. Those who care for implant retained dentures may even have them for a lifetime.
The only way to be sure you are eligible for implant supported dentures is to meet with the dentist to discuss your needs. The dental professional will be happy to answer any additional questions you may have and help you make a guided decision.
Request an appointment here: https://www.drpainless.com or call Red Cliffs Dental at (435) 465-4002 for an appointment in our St. George office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Implant Supported Dentures in St. George, UT.
Implant supported dentures are hybrid restorations that combine dental implants with dentures as a solution for missing teeth. Traditional dentures are the most economical way to replace missing teeth, but these devices are prone to shifting in the mouth. This can lead to sores forming inside the cheeks and the dentures falling out when eating…
Wondering if you should choose implant supported dentures? If you are in need of dentures so you can have a healthy mouth, it is important to choose a type of dentures that are right for you. Things to consider include how they look, how easy they are to care for and how long they will…
The All-on-4® procedure can significantly improve one's oral health and appearance. However, in order to achieve both, it is necessary to go through the entire process, which is known to be involved. Once the procedure is complete, the patient should prepare to undergo a lengthy recovery process. Recovery tends to be lengthy because the dental…
For many patients, sedation dentistry is a must for certain dental appointments. This branch of dentistry focuses on putting patients at ease and calming anxieties during visits. The use of sedation is most frequent when major treatments or procedures take place. These could include a root canal, filling, or restorative work such as a crown…
If you have had negative experiences in the past with invasive dental work, sedation could…
Dental veneers are suitable for individuals with strong and healthy teeth, as they are not…
If you have recently replaced a mouthful of teeth, you are probably adjusting to new…
Children are often susceptible to cavities, and regular dental visits can reduce the risk of…
A root canal is a dental technique devised to treat infection or damage within the…
