Among the millions of edentulous people in the U.S., many of them choose to get traditional dentures to replace their lost teeth. While traditional dentures have some benefits, they are not ideal. Is a better option available? Yes! At Elite Oral Surgery Associates in Worcester, our oral surgery team is proud to offer implant dentures. They are one of the best ways to rebuild a strong and sturdy smile! Read more about implant dentures on this page, and then contact us to request your consultation.
What Are Implant Dentures?
Dental implants are small titanium cylinders, or posts, that we surgically place into the jawbone. Once they integrate with the surrounding tissue, they are able to serve as a very strong base of support for crowns, bridges and dentures. Implant-supported tooth replacement tends to be stronger than traditional, non-implant options.
There are two main categories of implant dentures. During your consultation, we will help you determine whether a fixed or removable prosthetic is right for you.
Fixed/Permanent Implant Dentures
As you might guess from its name, a fixed implant denture is not readily removable. Rather, it can only be removed by a dental professional. Many patients love the convenience of having their teeth in their mouth 24/7. The only potential drawback of this option is that it requires enough jawbone density to support several implants.
Removable Implant Dentures
Removable implant dentures require fewer implant posts than fixed dentures, so they are popular among individuals who have lost some bone density in their jaw. These convenient prosthetics snap onto and off of small attachments on top of the implants.
The Implant Denture Procedure
The implant denture procedure involves four main steps:
- Initial consultation. We will make sure you are a good candidate for the procedure, answer your questions and start planning your treatment.
- Implant placement surgery. We will carefully insert your implant posts into your jawbone.
- Over a period of a few months, your implants should firmly bond with your jaw.
- Your general dentist or prosthodontist will provide you with a beautiful new denture.
The implant denture procedure can seem lengthy, but it delivers outstanding results that are well worth any inconveniences that you might experience along the way!
Am I a Candidate for Implant Dentures?
Implant dentures might be right for you if:
- You have lost all or most of your teeth throughout one of your dental arches.
- You are free of active gum disease and other conditions that might negatively affect your implants’ long-term success.
- You are in fair overall health.
- Your jawbone is strong enough to support dental implants
If you are unsure if you qualify for dental implants, it does not hurt to schedule a consultation. Most people can get this procedure, either right away or after some preparatory care.
Benefits of Combining Dentures & Dental Implants
Implant dentures offer some truly amazing benefits:
- Implant dentures can stand up to virtually any food, including those that are off-limits with traditional dentures.
- Dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime. The restorations on top of them are also designed to stand the test of time.
- Jawbone preservation. Unlike regular dentures, which can accelerate bone loss in the jawbone, implant dentures actually preserve and strengthen the jaw.
- You can expect your general dentist or prosthodontist to carefully design your new teeth so they look as natural as possible.
