Implant
Supported Dentures
Dental Implants are artificial
tooth roots. Holes are made into the jaw bones and the artificial roots are
placed and covered over. The implants then heal and integrate with the jaw.
After healing an artificial top (crown) is placed into the implant and crowns,
bridges and attachments for dentures can be placed.
Simply stated, a dental
implant establishes a foundation for a tooth or teeth to be affixed to where
previously there was none.
Dental implants provide
a stable foundation for the fully edentulous patient to regain nearly 90% of
their chewing ability, never having to experience a limited diet or the
embarrassment of an ill-fitting denture.
The Implant supported Lower
Denture
The problem -
The lower full denture is
difficult for many patients to wear. Sore spots and difficulty chewing are
usually the result of a mobile (bouncing) denture. Even a well fitting lower
denture will not work well when the gums have shrunk to the point that the
patient just can’t keep the denture in place.
The solution
- Implants can provide the anchor needed to keep
the denture in place. The result is a dramatic improvement in fit and function.
Patients who have had implants placed and an overdenture made that is attached
to them report a denture that stays down.
The two implant lower
overdenture
Two implants are placed in the
lower jaw. Attachments are added that connect the denture to the implants. The
denture will stay in place during chewing and speaking.
The four implant lower
overdenture
Four implants allow an even more
dramatic improvement in denture function. While two attachments hold the denture
in place biting pressure is still on the soft tissues of the gums. Four implants
allow placement of a sturdy metal bar that both holds the denture in place and
supports it during chewing. The result is excellent function and comfort that
rivals the natural teeth that have been lost.
The Implant supported Upper Denture
Upper dentures can be
difficult to wear too! Gagging, looseness and chronic sore spots are all reasons
to consider implants in the upper arch.
Disadvantages
- Disadvantages
of implant treatment are related to the implants.
- They are costly
- They require diligent oral
hygiene or infection and loss of the implant can result.
- Placement of implants is a
surgical procedure.
Risks
- Any surgery has risks associated with it.
Infection, reactions to the medications and anesthetics used and other
complications can occur. After the dentures are complete poor hygiene can result
in infection and loss of the implants. Smoking increases the chance of infection
greatly. This would be a good time to quit if you smoke! Diseases that reduce
the body’s ability to heal quickly and to ward off infection may effect your
prognosis. (Diabetes, cancer, Etc.) The success rates (implants in place and
functional after five years) of implant therapy are approximately 95%. A more
complete description of the risks involved will be given to you on the surgical
release form you will be asked to sign prior to treatment.
What a difference!
Patients who have dental
implants are thrilled by the improvement in every aspect of wearing a denture!
- Better ability to
chew - Eat what you want!
- Improved appearance
- Restore a youthful, vigorous appearance!
- Be more confident
- Don't be afraid to smile!
- More healthy diet
- Eat what you should!
- Be happy -
Feel better about yourself!
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