Implant-Support Dentures
Modern advancements in dentistry have resulted in a variety of treatment options for replacing a patient’s missing teeth. Whether you are missing one, several, or all of your teeth, our dentist, Dr. Gerda, can work with you to restore your smile.
What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?
Implant-supported dentures are a full or partial denture that is permanently fixed inside the mouth with the help of a number of strategically placed dental implants.
Rather than suctioning inside of the mouth like a traditional denture or attaching to natural teeth with wires like a partial denture, implant-supported dentures are attached to dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are biocompatible-metal, screw-like dental devices implanted directly into a patient’s jawbone. They mimic a tooth’s natural roots and can be used to hold a dental crown, dental bridge, or a full or partial denture permanently in place.
What Are the Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures?
In addition to replacing a patient’s missing teeth, implant-supported dentures offer several benefits and advantages over other tooth-replacement options. These benefits include:
- Implant-supported dentures do not slip, slide, or move around in the mouth.
- They never cause mouth sores or friction between the dentures and soft gum tissue.
- Implant-supported dentures look, feel, and work just like natural teeth.
- They allow a patient to continue enjoying all of their favorite foods with ease.
- They do not require a long adjustment period for use.
- There’s no need to use any sticky denture adhesive.
- They can replace all (or most) of a patient’s teeth without the need to replace every tooth with a dental implant.
- Implant-supported dentures deliver stimulation directly to the jawbone, preventing the bone from deteriorating over time. As a result, implant-supported dentures help to preserve a patient’s bone structure and appearance.
- Implant-supported dentures can be cared for with regular oral hygiene practices. They do not need to be removed and soaked nightly like traditional, removable dentures.
What To Expect When Getting Implant-Supported Dentures
The process of getting implant-supported dentures begins with a consultation with our dentist. During this initial appointment, Dr. Gerda talks with the patient about all of their treatment options and evaluates the patient to determine if they are a good candidate for implant-supported dentures.
Dr. Gerda then discusses the treatment process with the patient and outlines a treatment plan. This process includes determining the number of dental implants the patient will need to adequately support their dentures.
Treatment then begins by removing remaining teeth (if extraction is necessary) and placing dental implants. This initial process can require several months for completion and adequate healing before the implant-supported denture can be placed.
Once the implant placement process has been completed, Dr. Gerda takes a three-dimensional digital scan of the patient’s mouth to design the denture and final look. The denture is then fabricated to a custom design and the patient’s specifications. Once ready, the denture is permanently attached to the patient’s dental implants.
Are You a Candidate for Implant-Supported Dentures?
Implant-supported dentures are a great option for replacing a patient’s missing teeth. However, they are not necessarily the right choice for everyone. To be a candidate for implant-supported dentures, a patient must:
- Have generally good oral health and no current signs of periodontal disease.
- Be healthy enough to undergo the dental implant placement process.
- Have adequate jawbone mass to support the required number of dental implants.
- Be willing to refrain from tobacco use of all kinds throughout the treatment process.
- Be missing all or most of their teeth.
Comprehensive Smile Restoration Services With Our Dentist in Columbus
If you are living with missing or damaged teeth, we encourage you to schedule a smile restoration appointment with Dr. Gerda. She can examine your mouth and talk with you about your treatment goals and expectations to help you determine the best option for restoring your smile. To learn more or schedule a consultation, we welcome you to contact Gerda Family Dental in Columbus, Ohio today.