Are you missing a full arch of teeth? Do you wish there was an alternative to traditional dentures? Modern dentistry advancements have created an alternative to traditional dentures: implant-supported dentures. Many patients prefer implant-supported dentures because of the quality-of-life improvements they allow for that traditional dentures do not. Learn the answers to frequently asked questions about implant-supported dentures below:
Why should I replace missing teeth?
Replacing missing teeth is absolutely essential to your dental health. When you are missing teeth, all of your remaining dental structures are impacted. Your smile was designed to work together when performing daily tasks like chewing and speaking. With a missing tooth or multiple missing teeth, you may not be able to chew and speak as effectively. Additionally, missing teeth increase your risk for bone loss and facial sagging. Other risks associated with missing teeth include an increased risk for gum disease and dental decay. You may also experience TMJ disorder symptoms due to the increased tension in your facial muscles from not having enough chewing support. The longer you wait to replace missing teeth, the more at risk you are for developing associated dental concerns.
What’s the difference between traditional dentures & implant-supported dentures?
Traditional dentures are a removable oral appliance consisting of a set of prosthetic teeth attached to an acrylic base. Because traditional dentures are not anchored into your smile in any way, they may shift around while in use. Many patients fear that their dentures will fall out when eating or speaking in public, preventing them from living life how they once did with their natural smile. To combat denture slippage, and to help improve the lives of long-term denture wearers, implant-supported dentures are available. Implant-supported dentures utilize the additional support of strategically places dental implants to anchor the denture in place while in use. The set of teeth are secured to the implant posts using abutments. This allows patients to have added strength and stability for proper chewing and speaking motion.
What are the benefits of implant-supported dentures?
Many patients with implant-supported dentures enjoy being able to chew and speak without fear of their denture falling out. Additionally, patients do not have to worry about the dietary restrictions that come with traditional dentures. The dental implants provide additional support for your jawbone, preventing facial sagging. Our labs create beautiful sets of dentures designed specifically for you and your smile, ensuring that your final set of restored teeth looks as good as new. Roham Rafat, DDS, MS is one of the most highly trained periodontists in the Baltimore area and offers complete implant dentistry services under one roof in our Hunt Valley dentist office.
Am I a candidate for implant-supported dentures?
The ideal candidate for implant-supported dentures includes patients who are missing a full arch of teeth but are in otherwise good dental health. If you have been missing teeth for a while, you may need bone grafting services to help prepare your jawbone to support multiple dental implants. Our dentists can help you determine if this treatment option is right for you during a thorough consultation at our Hunt Valley dentist office. If you would like to find out if you or a loved one is a candidate for implant-supported dentures, please schedule an appointment with Valley Dental Health today.