Missing teeth can have a significant impact on your confidence, comfort, and quality of life. Traditional dentures have long been the go-to solution for individuals with multiple missing teeth, but they’re not without their drawbacks. From discomfort and inconvenience to the risk of slippage, traditional dentures can sometimes leave people feeling insecure about their smile. Thankfully, advancements in dental technology have provided an innovative and effective alternative—implant-supported dentures.
Implant-supported dentures are an optimal choice for those looking for a more secure and comfortable way to replace their missing teeth. As the name suggests, this treatment involves placing dental implants into the jawbone to support a custom denture. This not only creates a natural-looking result but also ensures a strong and stable foundation that minimizes the risk of your denture slipping or causing discomfort.
The advantages of implant-supported dentures are plentiful. They provide better stability and comfort when compared to traditional dentures, which in turn can lead to improved oral function—allowing our patients to eat, speak and smile with confidence. Additionally, the implants can help to prevent bone loss in the jaw that often occurs when teeth are missing. This is because the implants act as an artificial tooth root, stimulating the jawbone and protecting it from deterioration.
Keep reading to learn all about the transformative benefits and procedures surrounding implant-supported dentures, and discover how our experienced team at Danvers Aesthetic Dentistry can help you regain your smile and achieve optimal dental health.
Understanding Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures, also known as overdentures, differ from traditional dentures in that they are anchored to dental implants rather than resting on the gums. Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone, functioning as artificial tooth roots. These implant posts fuse with the jawbone over time, providing a secure foundation upon which the denture can be firmly attached.
There are primarily two types of implant-supported dentures: bar-retained and ball-retained. Bar-retained dentures involve a metal bar that is attached to the implants, and clasps or clips secure the denture to the bar. Ball-retained dentures, also known as stud-attachment dentures, involve a ball-shaped attachment on each implant that fits into a corresponding socket on the denture. Both types offer increased denture stability, improved function, and superior comfort compared to traditional dentures.
Assessing Your Candidacy for Implant-Supported Dentures
Before pursuing implant-supported dentures, it’s essential to determine if you are a good candidate for the treatment. During your initial consultation at Danvers Aesthetic Dentistry, our experienced dentists will assess your oral health and discuss your dental history and personal goals. Key factors that we consider during the evaluation include:
- Whether you have sufficient healthy jawbone to support the dental implants
- The status of your overall oral health, including any periodontal or gum disease
- Any medical conditions or medications that could affect the implant placement or healing process
- Your personal commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental checkups
For some patients, additional treatments such as bone grafting or extractions may be necessary to create an ideal foundation for implant-supported dentures. Our team will discuss these options with you if needed and customize a treatment plan to suit your individual needs.
The Implant-Supported Denture Process
Once you have been deemed a good candidate for implant-supported dentures and have decided to move forward with treatment, the process generally involves the following steps:
1. Implant Placement: During a surgical procedure, our dentists will carefully place the dental implants into your jawbone. The exact number of implants required will depend on your unique circumstances and the type of denture you’re receiving. After placement, there will be a healing period of several months to allow the implants to fully integrate with your jawbone.
2. Abutment Attachment: After the implants have successfully fused with your jawbone, abutments will be placed on top of the implant posts. These abutments will connect the denture to the implants.
3. Denture Fabrication: Our dental lab will create a custom denture based on impressions and measurements taken from your mouth. This will ensure that your new denture is designed to fit securely over your dental implants and precisely match the color and shape of your surrounding teeth.
4. Denture Fitting: Once your custom denture is ready, our dentists will attach it to the implants and ensure that it fits comfortably and securely. Any necessary adjustments will be made at this final stage before you leave the office with your newly restored smile.
Caring for Your Implant-Supported Dentures
Proper care and maintenance of your implant-supported dentures are crucial to ensuring their longevity and your overall oral health. Here are essential tips for keeping your new smile in excellent condition:
- Maintain a consistent and thorough oral hygiene routine, including brushing your teeth twice daily and using interdental brushes or floss to clean around the implant attachments.
- Clean your dentures daily using a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive denture cleanser.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings at Danvers Aesthetic Dentistry to monitor the health and function of your dental implants and dentures.
Implant-Supported Dentures: An Innovative Solution for a Better Smile
Implant-supported dentures offer a life-changing dental solution for individuals with multiple missing teeth, combining the benefits of dental implants with the convenience of dentures. At Danvers Aesthetic Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing dental solutions that not only enhance our patients’ smiles but also improve their overall quality of life.
If you’re considering implant-supported dentures or have any questions about this innovative dental treatment, feel free to contact our skilled and compassionate team of the best dentists in Danvers to schedule a consultation. We are here to guide you through the entire process and help you achieve the smile you’ve always desired.