Are you struggling with the idea of getting dentures or do you already have an old pair that’s become a pain point in your life? Fortunately, for either scenario, our Ocala dentist has a solution: implant-supported dentures. Combining the stability of dental implants with false teeth, this advanced option not only enhances your smile but also improves your overall oral health, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods and speak with confidence.
Here’s how implant-supported dentures can give you unparalleled comfort, security, and functionality.
The Basics of Implant-Supported Dentures
Most people are aware of traditional dentures but may not be as familiar with implant-supported dentures or as they are also known.
A patient receiving this form of tooth replacement will have a number of dental implants, or artificial tooth roots, inserted into the jawbone to hold the dentures in place. The presence of the implants is what gives this type of denture its stability and prevents any unwanted shifting or moving that often comes with standard false teeth.
On average, about 2-4 implants are placed but up to 10 can be inserted. The mouth needs to be completely healed from this process before the can be placed. It can take 2-6 months for the bone to grow around the implants but you will be given immediate dentures during this time.
Assessing Eligibility for the Procedure
Any patient who is currently missing a fair amount of teeth or will need to undergo tooth extraction is eligible. However, our dentist can discuss your specific situation with you in-depth to determine if implant-supported dentures are the right answer.
If the idea of conventional dentures doesn’t sit right with you and you want more jawbone support, we highly suggest this option. Implant-supported dentures allow patients the seamless look of dentures while still having the long-term oral health benefits that come from dental implants.
Weighing the Perks & Drawbacks of Implant-Supported Dentures
As with any restorative procedure, there are advantages and “cons”. Our dentist will do their best to explain every aspect of the and what you can expect once you have them. It is ultimately up to you to make the final decision, but we’ll be there to support you either way!
Compared to traditional dentures, pros include:
- More stability and robustness
- Better chewing ability; allows for consumption of harder and stickier foods
- Less likely to loosen while talking
- More comfortable fit
- Less friction on the gums
- Prevention of further bone loss in jaw
- Tend to be more natural-looking
Drawbacks include:
- Requires dental implant surgery; not convenient or possible for all patients
- Cost is higher due to implants
- May need bone graft to support implants
Daily Oral Care Involved
To make sure your implant-supported dentures remain in good shape, it is important that you clean them every day much like you would with natural teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and be thorough.
This type of restoration is not removable (unless our dentist has made them this way) so you don’t need to worry about taking them out and individually cleaning the denture component. Still, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing once underneath the denture, and rinsing with an ADA-approved mouthwash. Don’t forget your teeth cleanings with our dentist too!
Schedule a Consultation
Interested in learning more about how implant-supported dentures could enhance your quality of life? Talk to our dental implant dentist in Ocala, FL, today to set up a one-on-one consultation. Get started by calling Pruitt Dentistry at (352) 732-3985 to request an appointment.
