When it comes to replacing missing teeth, denture implants provide a reliable and long-lasting solution. If you’re wondering, “What are denture implants, and how do they work?” you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the key aspects of denture implants and how they can improve your smile, oral function, and overall quality of life.
What Makes Denture Implants Different?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone, where they function as artificial tooth roots. The fusion of the implants with the jawbone, known as osseointegration, ensures that the dentures stay securely in place. The dentures themselves are custom-made to fit perfectly over the implants, providing a natural-looking, functional, and comfortable solution for tooth loss.
Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, denture implants are firmly anchored, which means they don’t shift or slip when you talk, eat, or smile. This significant improvement in stability enhances both comfort and confidence for patients.
How Do Denture Implants Work?
The process of getting denture implants involves several steps, starting with an initial consultation and concluding with the final placement of your custom dentures. Here’s a breakdown of how the process works:
Initial Consultation and Evaluation
The first step is to schedule a consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon. During this appointment, your dental team will evaluate your oral health, including the strength of your jawbone. They may take X-rays or CT scans to assess the bone density and determine if you’re a good candidate for implant-supported dentures.
Surgical Placement of Dental Implants
The next step is the surgical placement of the implants into your jawbone. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and depending on your case, sedation options may be offered to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the process. The implants will remain in place while the jawbone heals and integrates with the implants.
Healing and Osseointegration
After the implants are placed, your body needs time to heal and allow the titanium posts to fuse with the jawbone. This process can take several months. During this time, the bone strengthens and secures the implants, creating a stable foundation for your new dentures.
Fitting the Dentures
Once the implants have fully integrated with the bone, your dentist will take impressions to create custom dentures that fit securely over the implants. These dentures are designed to look and feel like your natural teeth.
Final Adjustments and Aftercare
Your dentist will ensure the dentures fit comfortably and make any necessary adjustments to improve the fit, alignment, and overall function. You’ll also receive aftercare instructions on how to care for your denture implants to ensure their longevity.
Benefits of Denture Implants
Denture implants offer numerous advantages over traditional dentures. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Stability and Comfort: Implant-supported dentures are securely anchored to the jaw, preventing shifting or slipping, providing a more comfortable and natural fit while chewing or speaking.
- Improved Oral Function: These implants restore full chewing ability, enabling you to enjoy a wider range of foods than traditional dentures.
- Prevention of Bone Loss: Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone resorption and preserving bone structure.
- Long-Term Durability: With proper care, denture implants can last 10-15 years or more, offering a more durable solution than traditional dentures, which often need replacing.
- Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: Custom-made to look like natural teeth, implant-supported dentures provide a more natural appearance, boosting confidence when smiling.
Risks Associated with Dental Implants
These risks are generally low, especially when a qualified dental professional performs the procedure, but they may include:
- Infection: Infection is a risk after surgery. Following post-operative care and using antibiotics as prescribed can help reduce this risk and ensure proper healing.
- Implant Failure: The implant may fail to integrate with the jaw if bone quality is insufficient or if excessive stress occurs during healing, potentially requiring removal and replacement.
- Nerve Damage: Though rare, nerve damage during surgery can cause numbness or pain in the gums, lips, or chin, but this risk is minimized with an experienced surgeon.
- Sinus Issues: Implants in the upper jaw may interfere with the sinus cavities, leading to infections or discomfort. A sinus lift may be needed for proper placement.
- Bone Loss or Insufficient Bone Volume: Insufficient bone density may require bone grafting to support implants, which can increase both treatment time and cost. Ongoing care is essential to maintain bone health.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Once your denture implants are in place, proper care is essential to ensure their longevity. Here’s how to maintain your new implants:
- Regular Brushing and Flossing: Brush your implants twice a day and floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles. Use non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging the implants.
- Routine Checkups: Regular visits to your dentist are crucial for monitoring the health of your implants and surrounding gums. Your dentist will check for signs of gum disease or implant failure and make any necessary adjustments.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: While denture implants are stable, it’s still important to avoid excessively hard or sticky foods that could damage the dentures or implants.
Conclusion
Denture implants are a life-changing solution for individuals who are missing most or all of their teeth. They provide greater stability, functionality, and aesthetics than traditional dentures, allowing you to enjoy a full and confident smile once again.
At Centers for Dental Implants, our team of experienced specialists is here to help you explore the benefits of denture implants and determine if they’re the right solution for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
FAQs
How Long Do Denture Implants Last?
Denture implants are designed to be a long-lasting solution for missing teeth. With proper care and maintenance, implant-supported dentures can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, or even longer in some cases.
Can I Eat Normally with Implant Dentures?
Yes, one of the significant advantages of implant-supported dentures is that they allow you to eat almost anything you could with natural teeth.However, it’s advisable to avoid extremely hard or sticky foods to preserve the longevity of your implants and dentures.
What Happens If My Implant Fails?
If an implant fails, it will need to be removed, and your dentist will discuss options for replacement, which may include the placement of a new implant. If necessary, additional procedures, such as bone grafting, may be performed to ensure the jawbone can properly support a new implant.
How Painful Is the Procedure for Denture Implants?
The procedure for denture implants is generally well-tolerated, especially when performed by an experienced oral surgeon. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area where the implants will be placed, ensuring that you do not feel pain during the surgery.