If you have lost most or all of your teeth to decay and other injuries, consider looking into implant supported dentures. Like real dentures, these models provide a replacement for missing teeth. However, the implants in implant supported dentures are fused to the jawbone, allowing for much more support for the replacement teeth.
There are two different types of implant supported dentures: bar-retained and ball-retained. Both have similar end results but connect the implants to the dentures in different ways. Patients can discuss the differences further with a dental professional to see which one is preferred.
Bar-retained dentures feature a metal strip that follows along the base of the jaw and is attached to implants that have already been sealed to the jawbone. Clips are used to facilitate the easy removal and reattachment of bar and denture.
On ball-retained dentures, a metal attachment extends from each implant and fits into a reciprocal attachment on the denture, similar to an electrical outlet and a plug. In most applications, the attachments on the implants are ball-shaped — hence the name — and fit perfectly into the holes on the base of the denture.
In most cases, implant supported dentures can take anywhere from four to six months to fully install. If the patient already uses a set of dentures, it could take less time.
The first step is for the patient to schedule a consultation with what is known as a prosthodontist. These dentists focus on the creation and maintenance of artificial teeth.
During this initial consultation, the prosthodontist or another dental professional reviews the patient’s medical and dental histories and goes over surgical options and preferences. In addition, X-rays are taken of the patient’s mouth structures and models made of teeth and gums for the purpose of constructing the dentures. The results of these tests also inform the surgeon as to the optimal placements for implants and if they will potentially affect sinuses or nerves.
Once the dentist has a model of teeth and gums, surgeries are scheduled to take place sometime in the following weeks. During the first surgery, the surgeon makes an incision into the gums over where each implant is to be placed. The surgeon then drills a hole into each incision all the way down to the jawbone. Finally, the implants are placed in each hole and secured.
After a couple of months, the mouth should be fully recovered and the second phase of surgery can commence. At this stage, the surgeon places caps over each implant to help the gums heal properly. Once another few weeks pass to give the patient enough rest, the caps are replaced with permanent abutments. Finally, the dentures are crafted and given to the patient.
Traditional dentures can be a pain to maintain and use, but luckily there are alternatives. For those who have lost their teeth in old age, implant supported dentures can restore a beautiful smile.
Are you considering implant supported dentures in the Austin area? Get more information at https://austinprimarydental.com.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Those missing one or more molars may benefit from dental implants. The molars are the large, flat teeth in the back of your mouth, used to grind your food when chewing. Not counting your wisdom teeth, you have eight molars in your mouth, all of which play an important part in your ability to chew…
If you are looking to replace several teeth due to decay, infections, disease, injury, or other loss, then you may be looking for your options for a dental implant. The good news is that these procedures have been done frequently, and therefore, a lot of knowledge is known about the process and what to expect.…
Getting dental implants is an important choice in your goals for good oral health. This treatment is also a great way to restore your smile and feel good about your appearance again. If you compare implants to other tooth-replacement options, you will see the differences and benefits that implants offer. The process of getting implants…
If you are missing at least one or more teeth, you may qualify as a candidate for dental implants. Dental implants are the best option for replacing missing teeth. Having missing teeth can harm your oral health, and untreated tooth loss can interrupt your chewing ability and even affect the structure of your mouth. If…
Many patients missing one or more molars have benefited from dental implants.
For many people who feel nervous about dental care, laser dentistry offers a calmer, gentler…
Searching for a dentist near me often begins with convenience, but the range of services…
A restorative dentist often collaborates with specialists to plan and place implants, ensuring optimal results.
Denture wearers may develop a condition known as stomatitis, an inflammation of the gums and…
Although X-rays in general dentistry have been used for ages, digital X-rays are proving to…