The Process Of Getting Fixed Implant Dentures

You’ve likely heard of dentures for those whose teeth have been lost or extracted due to health problems or aging. With the latest dental technology comes fixed implant dentures, an alternative to traditional dentures that can be removed from the mouth. Unlike traditional dentures, these implants are directly anchored into the jawbone with special implants.

Dentures have helped many people eat and speak more clearly, without compromising the appearance of their smiles. Read on to learn more about fixed implant dentures: who needs them, and what the implant and recovery process is like.

What Are Fixed Implant Dentures?

Similar to traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures are intended to replace several teeth that may have been lost for a variety of reasons. However, instead of resting on the gums, this device is attached directly to the jawbone by means of dental implants. These implants are used to replace missing teeth using tiny threaded posts.

Having permanent, implanted dentures makes it easier for people with damaged or missing teeth to chew, speak, and eat more easily. They offer a realistic-looking alternative to traditional dentures, which are a more rigid structure that don’t shift or slip while speaking or eating. Traditional dentures tend to wear down more quickly, whereas fixed denture implants are more secure and built to last longer.

Who Can Benefit From Fixed Implant Dentures?

It’s common for our culture to link dentures with the older population, like our grandparents. However, any adult can benefit from them if they are missing teeth. This can happen due to illness or an injury. Some patients may only need partial dentures, while others may need to replace all of their teeth.

Whatever the cause of missing or damaged teeth, patients will need to have enough bone density in the jaw to safely and effectively accommodate the implants. If necessary, some patients will need dental bone grafts, which will add density to parts of the jaw, in order to support the implants.

Fixed Implant Dentures Procedure Details

There are multiple steps required before receiving your denture implants. First things first, you must have good overall oral health. To prepare your mouth for implants, any damaged or decayed teeth will need to be removed. This may require some healing time before the implant procedure can be safely performed.

Placing The Implant

Once you are ready for the implant process, a special oral surgeon or periodontist will place the implants directly onto the jawbone. This will fuse with the rest of the jaw over time: typically three to six months.

Taking Dental Impressions

Your dentist will take impressions of the upper and lower dental arches once the implants have fully healed. These impressions will then be sent to a special lab, so a skilled technician can begin crafting your unique dentures.

Placing The Dentures

Finally, your dentist will attach your custom-made dentures to your implants. In order to ensure their effectiveness and longevity, it’s important to treat them like your normal teeth, keeping up with your usual oral hygiene practices.

Benefits Of Fixed Implant Dentures

This procedure has become more common in recent years, helping many dental patients with the following issues:

• Preventing jaw bone loss
• Fixing a broken smile with natural-looking teeth
• Restoring oral health and function
• Preventing slippage that can happen with traditional dentures, making it easier to speak and eat

Potential Risks Of Fixed Implant Dentures

As with any dental procedure, there are risks involved with the process of fixed implant dentures. These may include

• Infection
• Injury to the mouth
• A hole in the sinus membrane
• Damage to the nerves

It’s important to keep in mind that these risks are rare, and depend strongly on whether you follow your dentist’s instructions for after-care. It’s also imperative that you continue your usual cleaning regimen at least twice a day.

Recovering From The Fixed Implant Denture Procedure

Your implants will continue to integrate with your jaw for several months: usually three to six, depending on whether you needed bone grafting during your procedure. In the meantime, your dentist may recommend a healing denture to wear over the implants to help protect them.

Caring For Your Fixed Implant Dentures

As with natural teeth, everyday maintenance is key to keeping implants healthy and clean. To ensure yours last a long time, you should

• Brush your dentures with a soft-bristled brush and nonabrasive toothpaste (your dentist will make recommendations of brands)
• Floss daily, as you would with natural teeth
• Keep seeing your dentist for follow-up care and regular cleanings

Fixed Implant Dentures In South Florida

This new and exciting alternative to traditional dentures is changing lives all over the South Florida region. Patients can experience the freedom that comes with being able to eat and speak more freely with fixed implant dentures. Ask your dentist if you are a candidate for this procedure: it’s a great way to start fresh in the new year.

To learn more about fixed implant dentures, and inquire about additional dental services, call today at 561-733-4004.