Your Guide to Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures offer the durability and reliability of dental implants and restore your full smile like traditional dentures. However, unlike regular dentures that rest on your gums, implant-supported dentures are surgically attached to your jaws using dental implants. If you need to replace four or more teeth in a row, implant-support dentures could be the right option for you.

How Do Implant-Supported Dentures Work?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium alloy. These metallic roots are surgically anchored into the jawbone to provide stability. Implant-supported dentures often require four to six implants. This restorative treatment option is becoming more popular because the implants keep your dentures in place so that you don’t have to worry about them slipping or falling.

To qualify for a dental implant, you must have sufficient bone density and a healthy immune system and gum tissue to support effective treatment. For patients who do not yet qualify for dental implants, there are options to boost bone density prior to implant treatment. Surgeries such as bone grafting can be used to improve bone density before the dental implants are placed.

Your choice of implant-supported denture will depend on your unique needs and budget. Removable dentures are a less invasive option and are financially friendly. Fixed dentures, on the other hand, are more stable and more costly.

After talking to your dentist about the best type of denture for you, you will start your journey towards a new look. This involves x-rays and scans to create models of your teeth, gums, and jaws to inform the design of your dentures. Your dental team will then gently anchor the implants into the jawbone, followed by a period of time for healing to ensure the implant has been fully assimilated into the jawbone. The implants often take three to six months to heal and integrate fully with your bone tissues.

Once you’ve healed, you’ll return to your dentist to have your dentures affixed to your implants. To give you a natural look, your dentist will apply an acrylic base the same shade as healthy gums before attaching the dentures.

Benefits of Implant-supported Dentures

Choosing implant-supported dentures over conventional dentures has several benefits. Some of these benefits include:

• They do not require any dental adhesives
• They fully restore your bite function and provide a natural look and feel
• Permanent implant-supported dentures do not require special dental care besides regular oral hygiene
• Implant-supported dentures help preserve your jawbone
• They are more secure and stable

How to Care for Your Implant-Supported Dentures

Like your natural teeth, dentures require care and maintenance to ensure a prolonged lifespan. Before the dentures are placed, you’ll need to attend multiple follow-up appointments to ensure the implants are well-placed and healing as expected. After the final visit, regular professional cleaning is also recommended.

To clean your implant-supported dentures, you should use a non-abrasive cleanser and a soft-bristled brush to clean all the dentures’ surfaces. When flossing, ensure you have removed all the loose particles and debris from the acrylic base. It is important to maintain proper oral hygiene because poorly cleaned areas like the gums, tongue, and cheeks can lead to bad breath and other oral health issues.

Are Implant-Supported Dentures Right for You?

If you need a durable and reliable tooth replacement solution, implant-supported dentures are a great option. Many people choose this type of denture due to the improved aesthetics and restored bite function. After receiving implant-support dentures, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite foods and even smile and speak more confidently.