You’re currently planning on getting traditional dentures to replace all of your missing teeth at once. However, while researching tooth replacement options, you found out that dentures can be combined with dental implants. Just how much of a difference can this really make for your smile and your quality of life? Here’s a closer look at implant dentures and what sets them apart from traditional ones.
Combining Dentures with Dental Implants
A traditional denture uses natural suction to remain seated on the gums. But if you want to give your prosthesis better stability, you can have it anchored to dental implants instead. Simply put, dental implants are small screwlike posts that are surgically placed in the jaw. About four to six well-placed implant posts can be used to secure a full denture. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can get an implant denture that’s removable or fixed in place.
How Implant Dentures Make a Difference
The full scope of just how different implant dentures are compared to traditional dentures may not be immediately obvious on the surface, but there are several benefits that are worth noting:
- Better Stability: Traditional dentures are known to occasionally slip out of place at unwanted times. Implant dentures don’t have this problem because the artificial teeth stay attached to the implant posts.
- Prevention of Bone Loss: Dental implants can provide the jaw with the stimulation that usually comes from natural teeth. Thus, unlike traditional dentures, implant dentures can actively fight the jawbone deterioration that typically follows tooth loss.
- A More Natural Feel: Many patients find that implant dentures feel more lifelike than traditional ones.
- A More Varied Diet: There are certain tough-to-chew foods that traditional denture wearers need to stay away from. Implant dentures come with no such restrictions because they provide enough chewing power to let you eat virtually anything you want.
- Longevity: You can usually expect to replace a traditional denture every ten years or so. Meanwhile, if you take good care of your dental implants, they could potentially last the rest of your life.
Are Implant Dentures Right for You?
You may benefit from combining dentures and dental implants if:
- You have lost most or all of your teeth.
- Your mouth is in good health overall.
- You have a sufficient amount of bone density in your jaw (or are able and willing to undergo bone grafting to correct a lack of bone density).
A full examination of your mouth will be needed to confirm whether dental implants are a viable option in your case. If you’re interested in rebuilding your smile with implant dentures, reach out to your periodontist today.
About the Author
Dr. David Handsman is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and holds memberships with various organizations, including the International Team for Implantology (ITI). He’s proud to be able to offer patients in Worcester implant dentures as well as a variety of other dental implant procedures. To schedule a comprehensive periodontal evaluation with Dr. Handsman at Handsman & Haddad Periodontics, visit his website or call (508) 753-5444.
