Implant-supported dentures are oral restorations that replace several teeth. They are typically recommended for patients who have lost most of their teeth in a dental arch. Implant-supported dentures combine dentures with implants to provide a more affordable, permanent solution for missing teeth.
Traditional dentures rest on the gums and are held in place via suction, but an implant-supported denture is directly attached to the jawbone with implants, giving it virtually as much stability as real teeth. Dental implants are small posts or screws that are inserted into the jaw to replace missing teeth and their roots. The implant replaces the lost root, while restorations like crowns, bridges, or dentures are attached to it.
Nothing beats dentures when it comes to affordability, and they are often the first missing teeth replacement option recommended for those who have lost most of their teeth. However, dentures are known to have extremely poor stability, and they sometimes fall out of the mouth. Dentures also come with annoying cleaning requirements that can add 30 minutes to a person’s nighttime routine.
Patients who want to replace their missing teeth with implant-supported dentures will first have to be cleared for the procedure. The placement of implants involves a surgical procedure, so patients are evaluated to determine if they can heal from their treatment without any complications.
Some of the health issues that can increase a person’s risk of complications during and after implant placement include diabetes and immune dysfunction. Excessive alcohol consumption and tobacco use also make it harder to recover from surgery.
Patients should also have enough jawbone thickness so implants can be placed without compromising nerves at the bottom of the jawbone. Bone grafts can be used to thicken a patient's jawbone if they do not have the required thickness. Some of the benefits of replacing missing teeth with implant dentures include:
One of the biggest selling points of dental implants is their bone-preserving properties. Bone tissues in the jaw disintegrate when teeth are missing due to a lack of stimulation. This can lead to drastic changes to the bone structures around the mouth, leading to the development of frown lines and wrinkles. Implants replace lost teeth roots, so bite forces can be transferred into the jaw, keeping tissues in the region healthy.
Conventional dentures are kept in the mouth via suction forces and dental adhesives, and this makes them prone to slipping. The constant shifting of these restorations in the mouth rubs against soft tissues like the cheeks and leads to irritation. Implants can be used to eliminate the slipping of dentures allowing patients to enjoy their prosthetic teeth without having to constantly worry about them falling out of their mouths.
Dental implants last a lifetime, so patients typically only have to get them once. The dentures attached to the implant only have to be replaced every seven years, and no surgery is needed since the implants are already in place.
Conventional dentures need to be cleaned and soaked daily, and that can easily add 30 minutes to a person’s bedtime routine. Implant dentures typically involve using special dentures that are fixed in place once installed by a dentist. These dentures do not require special maintenance. Good oral hygiene is sufficient to keep these restorations in excellent condition.
Implants do a better job of restoring the function of lost teeth than dentures since they provide increased stability. Patients can enjoy a wider range of foods with implant dentures without worrying about their restoration falling out. They can also proudly display their smiles without having to worry about their false teeth being shifted out of place.
Implant dentures involve getting four to six implants on each dental arch being treated to serve as bases for the patient’s dentures. Placing these implants involves a surgical procedure that includes the oral surgeon making a cut into the gum tissues and drilling holes in the patient's jaw to place the implant.
Temporary dentures are typically attached after the surgical placement of implants, but it can take up to six months for the patient to heal enough for their permanent set.
Implant-supported dentures prevent the bone tissue breakdown that occurs when teeth break down while providing a more effective solution than conventional dentures. Call or stop by our Santa Maria clinic to set up an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.centralcoastoms.com or call Wilson Oral Surgery at (805) 910-1213 for an appointment in our Santa Maria office.
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