Dentures are a better option than having no teeth – but there are significant drawbacks. Most people with dentures complain of soreness, poor retention, difficulty eating, and reduced taste. Dental implants can be used to anchor your denture in place allowing for improved retention and making it easier to eat the foods you once enjoyed.
People who wear dentures are generally able to chew only 20% as well as people with natural teeth. This decrease in bite force and chewing efficiency is typically due to poor denture retention. This can be caused by a lack of jaw structure for the denture to hold onto, or movement of the cheeks or tongue dislodging the prosthesis.
Implant-retained dentures can significantly improve denture retention and chewing function. Using the latest technology, we can plan and insert each implant precisely into your jaw. Once placed, these implants are allowed to heal. Once the bone has healed tightly around the implants the implants are uncovered and abutments placed that protrude from the gums. Your denture is then altered to allow for the denture to snap onto the implants.
Patients with implant-retained dentures are able to chew around 60% as well as people with natural teeth. This can greatly improve your comfort and ability to eat the foods that you want to eat.
At your consultation you should expect to discuss your medical history, any medications you take, and undergo a brief health review. Your surgeon will perform a physical exam. Our advanced 3D imaging technology allows your surgeon to assess your available bone and precisely plan the position of your implants.
Each surgery takes place in a private surgical suite at one of our four locations. This comfortable, personalized setting allows for safe and efficient treatment. All surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize your comfort. Please see our anesthesia options.
Dental implants are usually not ready to be immediately used. Time is necessary to allow for your bone to grow tightly around the implant, locking it firmly in place. This process often takes several months. Your surgeon will periodically check the progress of your healing. An x-ray will be used to verify that your bone has healed around the implant. A minor procedure will be completed to uncover the dental implants
Once your dental implants have fully healed your dentist will adjust your denture to allow it to attach to your dental implants. This will significantly improve your denture stability and function.
It is very important to take care of your new implants. Remove and clean your dentures each night. Do not wear your dentures when sleeping. Gently clean around each implant. We recommend that you see your dentist every 3-6 months for examination and professional cleaning.
