What Are Implant Supported Dentures?

The chances are good that you have heard of implant supported dentures. Whether from a television commercial or someone you know who has them, you want to learn more. While dentists still fit people with regular dentures, the implanted version is far more beneficial. Discover what these are and what makes them a great restorative option.

Overview of implant supported dentures

To start with, implant supported dentures are a permanent solution. Instead of standard dentures that people take out to soak, most types of the implant version remain in place. There is also no need for gooey adhesives. Why? Because implanted dentures fasten to screws a dentist implants in a patient’s jawbone.

Are these painful to get?

For a full mouth denture piece, the dentist would start by extracting any teeth. Once the mouth heals, the patient returns to the dental clinic. The dental professional numbs the patient’s mouth. Next, small holes are drilled in the jawbone for the insertion of titanium screws. In roughly two weeks, the patient returns to have the dentures attached. While patients experience slight discomfort following the procedure, there is virtually no pain involved.

Different options

These dentures come in a removable and permanent type. For removable implant supported dentures, the patient has fewer than four screws in place. In the case of four or more screws (implants), the dentures do not come out. Also, an individual can opt for a single-unit implant when missing just one tooth. There is also a full set, which is for people without any teeth.

As far as the actual types of implant supported dentures, there are two primary options. First are the endosteal implants. This type is the one mentioned that consists of small titanium screws that are inserted in the jawbone. Of the two types, this is the one that dentists commonly use.

Second are the subperiosteal implant supported dentures. In this case, a dentist places the implants beneath the gum but then on or above the jawbone rather than in it. Usually, this is the type that dentists use when people do not have enough supporting bone. Although bone grafting is a solution, not everyone wants to go through the procedure.

Possible surgeries

For patients without adequate jawbone to support implant supported dentures, dentists have surgical options available. As mentioned, one involves bone grafting. With this, either restored or regenerated bone fuses to the patient’s natural bone. Once healed, it offers outstanding support.

Another procedure is a sinus lift. With this, an oral surgeon adds bone just below the sinus. This works great for patients whose own jawbone has deteriorated. Then there is a ridge expansion. For patients, with jawbones not wide enough for implant supported dentures, the oral surgeon adds bone graft material. This goes on the small ridge just above the jaw.

Are implant supported dentures worth it?

People who have this type of denture say yes. Not only is the procedure painless but the results are also ideal. With everything complete, people have beautiful teeth that look and function as their own. That means they can smile big and eat almost anything. Since these dentures stay in place, there is no risk of slippage.

A great solution

If you are missing one or more teeth, talk to your dentist. The two of you can discuss a single-unit implant or a full set of implant support dentures. You will love the outcome. Even if you need a surgical procedure done, you will have gorgeous teeth in no time. Prepare yourself for people to feel envious.

Request an appointment here: https://www.sacramentosleepdentist.com or call Dental Excellence of Greenhaven at (916) 293-0504 for an appointment in our Sacramento office.