If you’re missing all your upper or lower teeth, you might think traditional dentures are your only option. But there’s a newer, more stable choice available now. Implant-supported dentures work much better than regular dentures for everyday life. Here’s what you should know about this tooth replacement option.
Why should I replace missing teeth?
Going without teeth isn’t just about looks. It affects your whole mouth’s health. Your teeth work together when you eat and talk. Missing teeth make these everyday actions harder. Over time, bone loss can change your face shape, making you look older.
You also have higher chances of getting gum disease or cavities in your remaining teeth. Some people even develop jaw pain because their bite is off balance. The longer you wait to replace missing teeth, the more problems can develop.
What’s the difference between traditional dentures & implant-supported dentures?
Regular dentures sit on your gums and can slip or move when you eat or talk. This makes many people nervous about eating out or speaking in public. Implant-supported dentures solve this problem by attaching to small metal posts placed in your jawbone.
These act like tooth roots to hold your dentures firmly in place. The dentures snap onto the implants so they won’t shift or fall out. This gives you back the ability to chew and speak with confidence.
What are the benefits of implant-supported dentures?
People with implant dentures enjoy many benefits. They can eat all their favorite foods without worry. The implants keep your jawbone strong, preventing that sunken-in look some denture wearers get. Your new teeth will be custom-made to look natural and fit your smile perfectly.
At our Hunt Valley office, Dr. Roham Rafat provides complete implant dentistry services. As one of Baltimore’s top periodontists, he has the special training needed for these procedures.
Am I a candidate for implant-supported dentures?
These work best for people missing all their upper or lower teeth who have generally healthy gums. If you’ve been without teeth for years, you might need a bone graft first to strengthen your jaw. The only way to know for sure is to come in for a consultation. We’ll examine your mouth and discuss if this is the right choice for you.
How long do implant dentures last?
The good news is the implants themselves can last forever if you take care of them. The denture part that attaches to the implants usually needs to be replaced every 10-15 years because it wears down over time. How long everything lasts depends on how well you care for your mouth, whether you go to regular dental check-ups, and if you avoid things like grinding your teeth. Coming in for professional cleanings every few months keeps your implants and gums healthy.
Does getting implants hurt?
Most people are surprised by how little it hurts. We numb the area completely during the procedure, and many patients choose sleep dentistry options to feel extra relaxed. You might have some swelling or minor soreness for a few days after, but regular pain medicine from the drugstore usually takes care of it. While healing takes time, many people feel good enough to go back to work the next day.
How many implants will I need?
For a full set of teeth, we usually put in 4-6 implants in the lower jaw and 6-8 in the upper jaw. The exact number depends on how strong your jawbone is and what kind of denture you pick. When you come in for your consultation, we’ll take special 3D pictures to figure out exactly how many implants you need and where they should go for the best fit and comfort.
Can I take them out myself?
The removable kind snaps on and off so you can take them out to clean them. The fixed kind stays in all the time and you clean them just like regular teeth. We’ll help you decide which type works better for your daily life when we plan your treatment.
How do I clean them?
Cleaning depends on which type you get. If you have the removable kind, you’ll take them out twice a day to brush and soak them. The fixed kind needs special floss and brushes to clean around the implants. We’ll show you exactly how to care for them and suggest coming in for cleanings more often than you would with natural teeth to keep your gums healthy around the implants.
Does insurance pay for them?
Many dental insurance plans will cover part of the cost, usually about the same amount they’d pay for regular dentures. We can help you understand what your insurance covers and look at payment plans if you need them. While implant dentures cost more upfront than regular dentures, most people find they’re worth it because they work better and keep your mouth healthier.
If you’re tired of dealing with loose dentures or want to replace missing teeth, call Valley Dental Health today at 443-733-6613 or schedule an appointment online. We’ll help you understand all your options so you can make the best decision for your smile.