Unlike traditional dentures, implant supported dentures are, for the most part, permanent. The implants are permanently affixed to the jaw, although the patient can choose fixed or removable dentures. The method of placement is beneficial for many reasons, and the result is a more natural look and fit than regular dentures.
The dentures are connected to dental implants, which are attached to the bone. This results in a number of benefits over traditional dentures:
There are numerous considerations to think about when deciding how to replace missing teeth. For those who decide on implant supported dentures, the process requires several steps.
Not everyone is a candidate for implant supported dentures. At the initial consultation the dental professional determines if a patient is qualified for the procedure and also goes over alternative options.
A good candidate is someone who is missing multiple teeth and has adequate jawbone density to support the implants. A person should also be diligent with good oral hygiene, not have underlying health conditions and be a nonsmoker.
This step is only for those who are using dentures to replace damaged or diseased teeth. These teeth are removed and, once the extraction site has healed, the implants are placed into the jaw.
Dental implants are small titanium screws that the dentist surgically inserts into the jawbone. Depending on if the dentures are going into the upper jaw or lower jaw or both, the number of implants placed typically range from four to 13. After placement, there is a healing process that allows the bone and gums to grow around the implants. This can take anywhere from three to six months.
Once the gums have healed, the dentist takes an impression of the teeth and makes a wax model to ensure the final dentures fit well. The mold is sent to a lab where the dentures are made from natural-looking materials.
After gum healing, hardware, known as an abutment, bar or snap, is attached to the implants. During the process, the gum tissue is reopened to expose the implant and then the hardware is attached. This area then needs to heal, which takes an average of two weeks.
The final step in the procedure is to place the custom-made dentures to the hardware. The dentist makes any final adjustments so the fit is secure and comfortable.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Implant Supported Dentures in San Francisco, CA.
Implant supported dentures are one way to replace missing teeth and restore normal function. Patients should properly care for the dentures by brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist twice a year. Doing this reduces plaque buildup and enhances the life span of the dentures, which typically ranges from 10 to 20 years.
Request an appointment or call Gregory Zabek Advanced General & Cosmetic Dentistry at 415-952-1146 for an appointment in our San Francisco office.
Dental fillingss are not enjoyable procedures, however, they are often necessary to restore teeth that are in bad shape. Thankfully, there are a few ways that patients can avoid having to get a dental filling altogether. Want to learn how to avoid getting a dental filling? This article outlines some important information that can be useful…
With more patients seeking alternative methods to traditional braces, aligner systems like ClearCorrect® braces have become popular in recent years. A patient is fitted with custom aligners that are worn for most hours of the day. The trays are usually replaced every two to three weeks. Because the aligners are clear and custom-fitted, patients can…
Just about every patient who visits a dental practice will leave with a few tips about oral hygiene. Dental professionals can be a valuable resource for how to keep the mouth healthy and can talk at length about oral hygiene. Here are four things a dentist may want you to know about how to care…