If you have lost most or all of your teeth to decay and other injuries, consider looking into implant supported dentures. Like real dentures, these models provide a replacement for missing teeth. However, the implants in implant supported dentures are fused to the jawbone, allowing for much more support for the replacement teeth.
There are two different types of implant supported dentures: bar-retained and ball-retained. Both have similar end results but connect the implants to the dentures in different ways. Patients can discuss the differences further with a dental professional to see which one is preferred.
Bar-retained dentures feature a metal strip that follows along the base of the jaw and is attached to implants that have already been sealed to the jawbone. Clips are used to facilitate the easy removal and reattachment of bar and denture.
On ball-retained dentures, a metal attachment extends from each implant and fits into a reciprocal attachment on the denture, similar to an electrical outlet and a plug. In most applications, the attachments on the implants are ball-shaped — hence the name — and fit perfectly into the holes on the base of the denture.
In most cases, implant supported dentures can take anywhere from four to six months to fully install. If the patient already uses a set of dentures, it could take less time.
The first step is for the patient to schedule a consultation with what is known as a prosthodontist. These dentists focus on the creation and maintenance of artificial teeth.
During this initial consultation, the prosthodontist or another dental professional reviews the patient’s medical and dental histories and goes over surgical options and preferences. In addition, X-rays are taken of the patient’s mouth structures and models made of teeth and gums for the purpose of constructing the dentures. The results of these tests also inform the surgeon as to the optimal placements for implants and if they will potentially affect sinuses or nerves.
Once the dentist has a model of teeth and gums, surgeries are scheduled to take place sometime in the following weeks. During the first surgery, the surgeon makes an incision into the gums over where each implant is to be placed. The surgeon then drills a hole into each incision all the way down to the jawbone. Finally, the implants are placed in each hole and secured.
After a couple of months, the mouth should be fully recovered and the second phase of surgery can commence. At this stage, the surgeon places caps over each implant to help the gums heal properly. Once another few weeks pass to give the patient enough rest, the caps are replaced with permanent abutments. Finally, the dentures are crafted and given to the patient.
Traditional dentures can be a pain to maintain and use, but luckily there are alternatives. For those who have lost their teeth in old age, implant supported dentures can restore a beautiful smile.
Are you considering implant supported dentures in the Fontana area? Get more information at http://gurzfamilydental.com.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
If you have some imperfections on your teeth, and you want to improve your smile, dental veneers may be an option. This procedure can help cover up certain dental issues that may reduce your confidence. Although veneers can make aesthetic changes, they are not the right option for everyone. Before considering this as a possibility,…
Dentures help some people regain their smiles without surgery. Breaking them in is important. It is the period of making your prosthesis a part of your life. Learning how to wear your dental prosthesis is important. If you want to find out how to maintain a secure and comfortable attachment for your dentures, here are…
Dental crowns are one of the versatile restorations used in dentistry. Crowns are used to save damaged teeth that cannot be saved using less invasive procedures. Damage can occur to teeth at any time, leaving them severely compromised.Placing a crown on a tooth requires making permanent alterations by removing enamel to create a better fit.…
Thinking about getting a smile makeover? There have been many recent advancements in the dental arena that make it easier than ever for you to improve your smile. Now all you need to do is find out more about which of the many makeover options are right for you.When you choose to undergo a smile…
If you have some imperfections on your teeth, and you want to improve your smile,…
If you want to find out how to maintain a secure and comfortable attachment for…
Dental crowns are one of the versatile restorations used in dentistry. Crowns are used to…
Thinking about getting a smile makeover? There have been many recent advancements in the dental…
A chipped tooth that's not treated right away will only get worse over time, and…
If you find yourself hiding your smile due to imperfections on your teeth, a meeting…