Implant supported dentures are a great way to restore the appearance and oral health of your smile. Our team here at our cosmetic dentist office helps patients through the entire process, and we take pride in seeing patients achieve more confidence and live a happier life with a new and beautiful set of teeth. If you are not happy with the appearance of your smile due to multiple missing or severely damaged teeth, then get in touch with our team today to learn more about the benefits and treatment process of implant supported dentures.
Implant supported dentures are a set of dentures that attach to strategically placed dental implants inside of the jaw. Traditional dentures rest upon and are supported by the gums, which often do not feel as comfortable as natural teeth and do not preserve the natural bone inside the jaw. Implant supported dentures, however, look feel and function very similar to natural teeth. The cosmetic, functional and oral health benefits of implant-supported dentures include:
Many of our patients choose implant supported dentures because of the cosmetic benefits they offer. The replacement teeth look like natural teeth, and no one around is likely to know they are dentures. Also, the implants fuse with the natural jawbone, which preserves the bone and keeps the jaw looking great. With implant supported dentures, there are also fewer dietary restrictions than with alternative solutions and caring for the replacement teeth is much easier.
There are three main components to implant supported dentures. The first is the implants, and multiple implants strategically placed to best support the dentures are often required. The second is the abutment, which connects the dentures and the implants securely. Finally, the dentures are attached, completing the cosmetic transformation process.
Check out what others are saying about our Implant Supported Dentures services on Yelp: Implant Supported Dentures Gainesville
Implant supported dentures are primarily designed to replace multiple missing teeth, whereas crowns are often more ideal for replacing a single missing tooth. Therefore, implant supported dentures are typically most ideal for those who have a large section of missing teeth, an entire row of missing teeth or need all-natural teeth replaced.
While replacing every single tooth with a dental implant and crown is incredibly invasive and costly, implant-supported dentures to replace an entire row of missing teeth typically only require four dental implants, saving the patient money, time and making the process much easier.
Implant supported dentures are also a good option for those who want the most natural and cosmetically pleasing replacement option that lasts long-term. It is not uncommon for dental implants to remain in quality condition for more than twenty years. With that said, however, the placement process does require a minor surgical process, and many patients require a bone grafting procedure before placement. Therefore, while implant supported dentures are most often a viable option, the patient should be willing and able to go through a more invasive process than what is involved with traditional dentures.
The process and specific steps taken for implant-supported dentures depend on the number of teeth that need replacement, the oral health condition of the patient and various other factors. The best place to start is to schedule an initial consultation with our cosmetic dentistry team.
On the first visit, they may conduct an oral examination and order dental X-rays to determine what preparations are needed before implant placement. Cosmetic treatment goals will be discussed, and the dentist will be able to answer questions and provide as much information as possible to the patient, so he or she can make an informed decision.
Once all mouth preparations are complete (if any are required), our staff and the patient can schedule a time for the placement procedure. It is important to make necessary arrangements beforehand to allow for proper recovery, such as going shopping for soft foods, arranging several days off from work, etc.
It typically takes several months for the natural bone in the jaw to fuse together with the implant through a process known as osseointegration, after which the patient is ready for the permanent abutment and dentures placement. Follow-up visits are likely required to ensure there are no complications after the procedure is complete.
Good oral hygiene is essential before, during and after the implant-supported dentures process. It is important to have a healthy mouth to allow for successful implant placement. After the placement procedure, the risk of oral infection is higher, and the patient should ensure all aftercare instructions provided by the cosmetic dentist are followed, which will include gently brushing several times a day and using mouthwash frequently.
After a full recovery is made, the patient can care for the implant-supported dentures essentially the same way they would natural teeth. Be sure to brush frequently, use mouthwash and floss, and regularly check for signs of oral health complications, along with routine follow-up visits with the cosmetic dentist. If any issues develop, schedule a visit with the dentist as soon as possible to ensure issues are treated promptly and do not linger or worsen.
The cosmetic dentist may also provide certain dietary and lifestyle restrictions. In general, it is encouraged to avoid anything that may damage natural teeth, gums or the implant-supported dentures. It is often best to limit intake of foods and drinks high in sugar, limit smoking and tobacco use and take extra caution during activities that may result in a blow to the face, such as weightlifting, sports, etc. Taking these steps will ensure that the cosmetic transformation is complete and produces positive results.
If you struggle with teeth grinding, talk to the cosmetic dentist about treatment options to prevent damage to the dentures or natural teeth.
We are available through phone or email, and our friendly cosmetic dentists are happy to answer your questions and help you schedule a convenient time to come in and see us for an initial consultation. We can discuss treatment goals and help you decide on whether implant supported dentures or another form of teeth replacement is right for you. Everyone deserves a smile they love, and we are here to help you gain a smile you love after tooth loss occurs.
GDC Smiles is located at 950 Washington Street NW Ste. J Gainesville, GA 30501.