If you’re suffering from tooth loss, you’ll inevitably have to cope with the effects of missing teeth. They play an essential role in your ability to eat and speak which means you might struggle to chew food or be clearly understood. Plus, having gaps in your grin can make you feel self-conscious about your appearance. Dentures are the tried-and-true method for refurbishing your smile because they can enhance the quality of your daily life. That said, many patients have a hard time with them and want a more permanent solution.
Implant dentures are often recommended in these instances, but many people wonder whether it’s worth the investment. Continue reading to learn more about this treatment so you can decide whether it’s right for you!
Why Do People Need Implant Dentures?
Although traditional dentures can rebuild your ability to form sounds and grind your food, they come with some challenges. There are several reasons you might consider attaching your artificial teeth to dental implants, such as:
- Loss of bone density. When you lose teeth, your body reabsorbs material from your jawbone that’s no longer needed to support them. This can lead to a weakened jaw which can impact your facial structure.
- They don’t fit well. Your prosthetics rely on a firm suction with your gums to remain in place. They can become loose or frequently dislodged as your jawbone slowly deteriorates.
- You’re tired of keeping track of them. It’s not uncommon to have a hard time keeping track of your restoration or cleaning it properly every day.
What Are Implant Dentures?
If you’re experiencing the problems listed above, then your dentist might suggest implant-supported dentures. This simply refers to dentures that are held in place by titanium posts inserted into your jawbone. Once the oral surgeon strategically places these rods, you’ll need to wait a few weeks to several months for your bone to fuse around them in a process called osseointegration. Then, you’ll receive artificial teeth that are designed to anchor to them for a more stable restoration. After they’ve been placed, they’re considered a ‘permanent’ attachment and can only be removed by your dentist.
What Are the Benefits of Implant Dentures?
It’s natural to wonder whether implant dentures will make much of a difference. Fortunately, they provide many unique advantages including:
- They prevent bone tissue loss. The titanium pole acts like the root of a tooth and stimulates your jaw to keep it active. This precludes the slow erosion that usually occurs with tooth loss.
- They’re easier to clean. Instead of worrying about removing them twice daily to brush them, you’ll brush and floss these prosthetics while they’re in your mouth.
- There’s a stronger attachment. You won’t have to worry about the embarrassment of having your restoration fall out mid-meal or during a conversation because they’re much more secure.
- They look and feel natural. Like your traditional dentures, these are made to resemble your natural teeth, so your appearance won’t change.
If you’re frustrated by your traditional dentures, anchoring them to dental implants can greatly improve the quality of your daily life!
About the Author
Dr. Shabnam Tehrani is dedicated to helping people improve their oral health by offering a wide range of services to care for your smile, including dental implants. She earned her undergraduate degree at the University of South Florid before completing her advanced Doctor of Dental Medicine Degree at the University of Florida College of Dentistry. She believes that everyone deserves VIP treatment, so she uses the highest-grade materials and partners with superior dental labs for beautiful, long-lasting restorations. If you’re tired of your dentures and are looking for other options, you’re welcome to request a consultation on the website or by calling (813) 906-0866.