Implant-Supported Dentures Did you know upper and lower dentures can be secured with implant-supported dentures? At Oral Surgery Specialists of Buda we are here to help and guide you through the process to determine whether this is a suitable procedure for you.If you wear full dentures, you may have a problem with them being uncomfortable, shifting around, and causing pain or discomfort. Another option that will solve these problems is to have an implant-supported denture, which is secured firmly on at least two dental implants. What Are Dental Implants?Dental implants consist of a small metal post that is embedded into the jawbone. It takes the place of a tooth root to provide a strong anchor whereby a denture is attached. Traditionally, implants replaced one tooth. In theory, it is possible to have each tooth replaced with one dental implant, but this is expensive and unnecessary. To secure a full denture, only between two and six dental implants are used. The Benefits of Implant-Retained DenturesWhile a good set of dentures should sit on the gums firmly without requiring adhesive, over time the shape and strength of the gums alter. This is often caused by bone loss in the jaw, which happens if there are no teeth, because chewing and biting forces stimulate the bone surrounding the tooth roots. If there are no teeth there is no stimulation, and the bone deteriorates. Dental implants provide stimulation in the same way as natural teeth, preserving bone and keeping the jawbone healthy. Dental implants provide a sturdy and strong anchor for implant-supported dentures. They do not move and provide the wearer with the confidence to eat, talk and laugh without worrying about slippage. Implant-supported dentures are less bulky than traditional dentures. Less material is needed to keep the denture in place, which is more comfortable for the patient and more natural-looking. Am I a Suitable Candidate?You will be given a full examination and consultation to ascertain whether you are suitable for implant-supported dentures. This will include a thorough evaluation of your medical history and scans of your jawbone to assess the health of your bone. If the bone in your jaw is not viable, you may still be able to have the procedure. However, you will need a bone graft to increase the height and depth of bone first. After the bone graft, it could be four months to a year before sufficient new healthy bone has grown enough to support implants. Some individuals with long-term health conditions or those that have had radiotherapy may not be suitable for dental implants. If you have a chronic illness, such as diabetes, it will need to be well-controlled. Patients who smoke are not considered to be good candidates for dental implants. As smoking decreases blood flow in the body, important nutrients and oxygen will be diminished, which are crucial to promote healing around the implant site after surgery. Many dentists will not place dental implants in patients who smoke because the failure rate of the procedure is too great. Find out more about implant-supported dentures at Oral Surgery Specialists of Buda. Call our office to schedule an appointment at (737) 335-0017 . We are here to help you with any questions or concerns you have about dental implants and implant-supported dentures. |
