Implant-supported dentures are ideal for many dental professionals and their patients. They offer many benefits over their alternatives, including a natural look and results lasting around 15 years or more. If you are considering restoring your smile with implant-supported dentures, we have outlined a few things to know before your appointment.
Implant-supported dentures are not ideal for everyone. The ideal candidates will be missing all their natural teeth or have missing teeth in sporadic areas in the upper or lower jaw.
In addition, considering that dental implants will be surgically placed in the jawbone, patients must have healthy gums and a jawbone with sufficient volume and density. We often see damaged or deteriorated jawbones in those with periodontal (gum) disease or who have been missing teeth for some time. In some cases, the dentist can perform a bone graft for those with insufficient jawbones to improve the chances of candidacy.
After approval, patients must understand that the process occurs in stages. These stages will stretch over three to six months. The second stage varies from patient to patient and depends on whether or not the patient needs teeth extracted or a bone graft. The third stage involves placing the dental implant post(s), titanium screws, into the jawbone.
After the third stage, the patient will begin healing and a process called osseointegration, where the screws fuse into the jawbone. This healing process varies and depends on the patient's immune system, but an average of 8 to 10 weeks is common for this stage. The fourth stage will be placing abutments into the gums that act as an anchor for future dentures. Finally, there will be another healing process that only takes a few weeks before the final stage of placing the dentures.
Implant-supported dentures give patients the option to have removable appliances or fixed ones. With fixed or hybrid dentures, the dentist will attach the appliance to the patient’s jawbone, surrounding the dental implant. After placing, only the dentist can remove the appliance for adjustments and cleaning.
Removable dentures will snap onto the dental implant(s). Due to their design, they are able to stay securely in place while the patient speaks and chews but are easy to remove when necessary.
Like one's natural teeth, dentures require diligent care to prolong their lifespan. Therefore, patients must brush and floss their dentures regularly (twice a day) with a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste. For removable dentures, patients will need to soak them in a solution (we will advise the brand during the appointment) overnight. While removed, patients should clean around their dental implants and use oral rinses to remove bacteria.
Patients also need to be aware that they can still experience diseases and infections. Therefore, biannual dental appointments are still necessary after receiving dentures.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dentures in Kennewick, WA
Implant-supported dentures can restore your smile with a natural and durable finish. Though the process is lengthy, it is worth it in the end. If you are interested in learning more about dentures, contact our office. Our team will answer any questions you may have and schedule your first consultation to determine if you are an ideal candidate.
Request an appointment or call Gledhill Dental at 509-800-8410 for an appointment in our Kennewick office.
Losing multiple teeth can affect not only oral health but also self-confidence, preventing you from fully participating in social situations and living a fulfilling life. Dentures are an effective solution to replace missing teeth, offering functional and psychological benefits. They can restore your smile and ability to speak confidently and chew food efficiently while improving…
Dentures are removable appliances that restore the appearance of your smile and your ability to eat the foods you love. Because you want your dentures to last, it is important to understand how to get used to them and take care of them. Follow these tips for help getting the most out of your new…
Dentures are viable tooth replacement options that restore the look and function of your smile. Whether you are missing one tooth or all of them, these restoratives can serve as long-lasting alternatives. With a variety of dentures options, patients can determine which option will best meet their needs through a consultation appointment. Here is some…
If your child has crooked or poorly aligned teeth, kids braces are one of the options that can be used to straighten his or her teeth. Continue reading to learn more about kids' braces.Dentists generally recommend children get orthodontic treatments once they reach the age of seven. That is when the final set of molars…
If you are new to the denture world, you may be confused when you think of toothbrushes and denture care. Most people have this misconception that since you have dentures, you no longer have to brush your teeth. This statement couldn’t be any more wrong. Brushing is just one important step in caring for your…