Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures are a type of dental restoration designed to replace multiple missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, which sit on top of your gums, implant-supported dentures are anchored to dental implants placed in your jawbone. These implants serve as artificial tooth roots, providing a sturdy foundation for your dentures. This creates a more stable, comfortable, and long-lasting solution compared to removable dentures.

Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures

• Increased Stability and Comfort: One of the biggest advantages of implant-supported dentures is their enhanced stability. Traditional dentures can slip or move around, leading to discomfort and difficulty with chewing and speaking. With implant-supported dentures, you can enjoy a secure fit that stays in place, giving you the confidence to speak, eat, and smile without worry. Additionally, implant retained dentures offer greater comfort and improved functionality compared to traditional removable dentures.
• Improved Functionality: With the secure support of implants, implant-supported dentures function more like natural teeth. You’ll be able to enjoy a wider variety of foods, including hard or chewy items that may have been difficult to eat with traditional dentures. Additionally, the improved bite force helps maintain your jawbone health over time.
• Enhanced Appearance: Implant-supported dentures look more natural compared to traditional dentures. The implants provide a solid foundation for the denture, which prevents the sunken appearance that can occur with bone loss in the jaw. With this solution, you can maintain a youthful and healthy appearance.
• Better Oral Health: Since implant-supported dentures are anchored into your jaw, they help preserve the bone structure. When teeth are missing, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate, but dental implants stimulate bone growth, which helps maintain your facial structure. This can also reduce the risk of further tooth loss.

The Implant-Supported Dentures Process at Genesis Dental

The process of getting implant-supported dentures typically involves several steps. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Consultation and Planning: During this visit, your Flower Mound dentist will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan. This may include X-rays and possibly a 3D scan to assess your jawbone. The extraction of decayed or damaged teeth may be necessary before proceeding with the implant placement.
2. Implant Placement: Next, Dr. Zhao will place the dental implants into your jawbone. This minor surgical procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Over the following months, the implants will fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. A bone graft may be required if there is insufficient bone structure to support the implants.
3. Denture Attachment: Once the implants have fully integrated with the bone, Dr. Zhao will attach the custom-made denture to the implants. The result is a sturdy, natural-looking solution for missing teeth that is tailored to fit your mouth comfortably.

Are You a Candidate for Implant-Supported Dentures?

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for implant-supported dentures, as certain criteria for dental implant candidacy need to be met. Ideal candidates typically have sufficient bone density in the jaw to support the implants. However, even if you’ve experienced bone loss, there are options such as bone grafts or sinus lifts that may help prepare the area for implants. Bone grafts may be necessary to prepare the area for dental implants. Dr. Zhao can assess your individual situation and recommend the best treatment plan for you.

Caring for Your Implant-Supported Dentures

Caring for your implant-supported dentures is similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups are essential to maintain both the implants and the dentures. Fixed implant-supported dentures require specific cleaning methods to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. It’s also important to follow Dr. Zhao’s advice regarding diet and cleaning techniques to ensure your implants last for many years.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do implant-supported dentures last?

Implant-supported dentures can last for many years, sometimes even a lifetime, with proper care and maintenance. You can increase the longevity of your restoration as long as you follow a rigorous at-home oral hygiene routine and visit your dentist twice a year for checkups. 

Are implant-supported dentures painful?

It’s common to experience minor discomfort or pain after the implant procedure and during the healing process. However, any discomfort should be manageable with cold compresses or over-the-counter pain medications. Most people find that the benefits of these dentures far outweigh any temporary discomfort.

Can implant-supported dentures be removed?

Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures are permanently anchored to the jawbone and aren’t removable. Only a qualified dentist can remove the restoration. Please don’t remove the restoration yourself, as this can cause serious damage. 

How many dental implants are needed for an implant-supported denture?

The number of implants needed varies depending on the individual case. Typically, four to six implants are used to support a full arch of dentures, while two to four implants may support a partial denture.

A Long-Term Solution for Missing Teeth

Implant-supported dentures are an excellent option for individuals in Flower Mound, TX, and surrounding areas who are looking for a long-lasting, stable solution to replace missing teeth. With the experience of Dr. Zhao at Genesis Dental, you can regain the confidence to smile, speak, and eat with ease. If you’re ready to explore the benefits of implant-supported dentures, schedule a consultation with our Flower Mound, TX dentist today by calling (972) 355-2424  to start your journey toward a healthier, more functional smile.