Many people will need dentures in their lifetime. Losing teeth is part of the aging process. Fortunately, modern dental technology has created solutions for tooth loss that are much more convenient than removable dentures. Implant-supported dentures are a new dental innovation that can have a major positive impact on the lives of people who need to replace missing natural teeth.
What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?
Implant-supported dentures – also known as fixed dentures, all on four dental implants, or full mouth dental implants – use dental implants to anchor a denture prosthesis to the patient’s jawbone. In a fixed denture procedure, titanium screws are surgically attached to the jawbone. These screws fuse with the jawbone over a healing period of 3-6 months. During this healing period, a dentist will work to create a customized set of dentures to fit the patient’s mouth. Once the jawbone is fully healed, this custom prosthetic can be attached to the dental implant anchors. This creates a semi-permanent bond that securely fixes the dentures to the patient’s mouth.
Why Are Implant-Supported Dentures Better Than Traditional Dentures?
Implant-supported dentures have many advantages over traditional dentures:
- Fixed dentures are more secure than removable dentures, and do not require messy adhesives to keep them secured in the mouth.
- Since the dentures sit securely in the mouth, speech and chewing are more natural than with removable dentures which might shift during jaw movement.
- Denture care is done in the mouth, in much the same way you would take care of your natural teeth. There is no need to remove the dentures overnight and soak them for cleaning.
- Many patients report greater comfort and convenience with implant-supported dentures.
- Additional bone and tissue loss can be prevented due to the presence of the dental implants that support the dentures.
How Can I Get Implant-Supported Dentures?
Fixed dentures are a life-changer for many patients, but you do need to meet certain criteria in order to have a good outcome. Because this denture technology requires the use of dental implants, your jawbone needs to be healthy enough to support the implants. The first step in the process is to contact your dentist to set up a implant-supported denture evaluation. During this evaluation, your dentist will assess your oral health to see if you’re a good candidate for fixed dentures. If you are a good candidate, they can create a treatment plan customized for your needs. Then, you can schedule appointments for the dental implant procedure, denture customization, and the final denture installation.
Are you interested in getting implant supported dentures? Dr. Bowyer has helped hundreds of patients in the Vancouver, Washington area with this procedure. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!