Traditional dentures have allowed many people to enjoy complete smiles after extensive tooth loss, but these appliances have their limitations. They tend to lose their fit after five or seven years, making replacements necessary, and many people find that they can slip around the mouth, which can lead to oral injuries and embarrassing situations during speech. Here’s a brief guide to adjusting to your new implant dentures if you have worn traditional restorations previously.
What Are the Disadvantages of Traditional Dentures?
Each set of traditional dentures is completely customized to match the shape of your mouth, creating a comfortable fit as well as a lifelike appearance. However, these appliances hold their places in the mouth through natural suction, meaning that they can slide out of place during speech or chewing if they don’t fit properly. They also do not address the problem of bone erosion that occurs after tooth loss since they do not stimulate the jaw, which will gradually make the mouth change shape due to atrophy.
What Are the Advantages of Implant Dentures?
Implant dentures, on the other hand, are supported by several titanium posts surgically placed at strategic points in the jawbone. This gives them the secure hold they need to provide maximum chewing power and eliminate the possibility of slipping out of place during speech. They also restore the exercise the jawbone needs to stay healthy and strong, which can prevent or even reverse the process of bone loss.
How Are Dental Implants Placed?
Periodontal treatments or bone grafts may be necessary to restore the health and strength of the gums and jaw before you can receive dental implants. Once you are approved for the procedure, your dentist will begin the process by administering a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort, and you may also receive a sedation treatment if necessary. Then, they will surgically insert titanium posts into the strongest points in your jawbone. After you’ve had a few months to recover, your dentist will anchor a lifelike denture to your new implants.
The best way to ensure a smooth recovery after receiving dental implants is to comply with your dentist’s postoperative instructions, which will probably include avoiding chewy or crunchy foods and refraining from drinking through a straw and spitting while you are healing. Consulting with your dentist can help you find out if implant dentures can be right for you.
About the Practice
Dental Center of Lakewood offers outstanding oral healthcare to the Dallas community. Led by Drs. Travis Spillman and Jacquelyn Green, the staff sees to each patient receiving courteous and compassionate care in a calming and welcoming environment. Areas of expertise include general, cosmetic, emergency, and restorative dentistry such as dentures and dental implants. To schedule your dental implant consultation, contact the office online or dial (214) 823-5253.