Implant Dentures – Parker, CO
Secure Your Denture with Dental Implants
No one ever expects to suffer significant tooth loss, but it’s a common problem for many Americans. In fact, at least 35 million adults have lost all their teeth in one or both arches. Traditionally, a full denture is used to place the missing teeth. They’ve undergone several improvements over the years to enhance their fit and function. Unfortunately, they will always have their limitations. You don’t need to live with less than the best. Dr. Allen can secure your denture to your jawbone using dental implants. You’ll gain a nearly identical replica of your real teeth, so you can chew, speak, and smile without any worry.
What are Implant Dentures?
A conventional denture rests on top of your gum tissue and is held in place using an adhesive or suction. It’s a convenient and effective solution to restore your smile, but dentures only last for a few years before needing to be replaced. Not to mention, they will never truly feel natural.
An implant denture resolves the common complaints of a traditional prosthetic. An average of 4 to 8 dental implants are strategically placed into your jawbone to support your denture, which is attached using special fixtures on each post, called abutments.
Keep in mind that there are types of implant dentures for you to choose from. This includes fixed implant dentures and removable implant dentures, both of which have their own unique benefits.
Fixed/Permanent Implant Dentures
A fixed implant denture is not designed to be removed by anyone other than a dentist. Because the denture is meant to stay inside the mouth at all times, they require more posts (between four and eight implants) to place. That means you’ll need more available bone tissue for them to remain stable.
Removable Implant Dentures
For those with less available bone tissue, removable implant dentures may be a better option. This denture is designed to be removed for easier cleaning at home and does not require as many implants to hold (usually between two and five).
The Implant Denture Procedure
Restoring a smile with dental implants occurs in several steps that can take many months to complete. It’s time well-spent because dental implants are proven to last for decades with the right care to enjoy a long-term solution.
After healing from any previous treatments, you’ll have your placement surgery to insert titanium posts into your jawbone. They will act as roots, stimulating new bone growth. Over the next several weeks, your jaw will fuse to the posts through a process called osseointegration.
Once your bone has healed, you’ll need a second procedure to attach abutments to each post. Finally, your permanent denture is connected to complete your smile.
Am I a Candidate for Implant Dentures?
If you’re not satisfied with a traditional denture, or you’re ready to take the leap into tooth replacement, you might be a candidate for an implant denture. In addition to reviewing your oral and general health, Dr. Allen will also need a CT scan of your jaw to ensure it can support dental implants. Based on the results of your examination, you may need additional procedures before your placement surgery. It’s common for patients to have a few treatments added to their plan, like tooth extractions, bone grafting, or periodontal therapy.
Benefits of Combining Dentures & Dental Implants
With a dental implant mimicking the entire structure of a tooth, you’ll enjoy several benefits that can’t be achieved with a traditional denture, such as:
- Over a 95% success rate.
- Looks and feels natural.
- Regain as much as 70% of your natural biting force.
- Preserves your jawbone.
- Improves oral health.
- Eliminates slipping and irritation.
- Long-term, cost-effective option.