Implant Supported Dentures
Mt. Kisco, NY
Implant Supported Dentures provided by Dr. Gary Orentlicher and Dr. Andrew Horowitz in Mt. Kisco, NY at New York Oral, Maxillofacial, and Implant Surgery
 While regular dentures satisfy some individuals, many find out that they lack the security and stability of natural teeth. This is where implant-supported dentures prove to be an exceptional solution. Thanks to the many benefits they offer, our professionals at New York Oral, Maxillofacial, and Implant Surgery recommend implant dentures over regular ones. Given that they are among the safest and most advanced prosthodontics procedures, implant dentures deserve your attention.
What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?
These are tailored dental prostheses that replace several missing teeth at once. They bear a resemblance to conventional dentures, but their distinction lies in being affixed to the jawbone through dental implants rather than merely sitting on the gums. These dental implants are small threaded posts that function as substitutes for the natural roots of absent teeth. By securely attaching to the jawbone, implant-supported dentures offer better stability during essential activities like chewing, eating, and speaking.
Implant-Supported Dentures Types
Implant-supported dentures come in fixed and removable options. The choice of treatment depends on various factors, such as the condition of your jawbone, your medical history, and your personal preferences.
Removable Implant-Supported Dentures
These dentures snap onto dental implants within your jawbone, remaining securely in place until you choose to remove them. This option allows you to take out your dentures daily for easy cleaning.
Fixed Implant-Supported Dentures
A fixed denture, also known as a hybrid denture, permanently attaches to dental implants in your jawbone. It cannot be removed at home, but your dentist can remove it for maintenance when necessary. With this choice, you are unable to remove the dentures for cleaning. Instead, you will brush them like natural teeth and utilize floss threads, interproximal brushes, and other specialized cleaning tools to clean underneath them.
The Implant-Supported Dentures Process
Implant-supported dentures undergo a series of procedures tailored to the needs of each patient. Initially, pre-prosthetic surgery removes decayed or damaged teeth, with potential bone grafting to strengthen the jawbone. Subsequently, a temporary healing denture is worn during a recovery period that typically spans a few months before the actual implant placement.
The next stage includes oral surgery, where the dental implants are placed into the jawbone, usually carried out by a periodontist or oral surgeon. It takes roughly three to six months for the implants to heal, during which the healing denture remains in place for implant stability. Once the implants have fully integrated, dental impressions of the upper and lower dental arches are taken. These impressions are then sent to a dental lab, where technicians craft the custom dentures. Finally, the denture is firmly attached to the implant root by the dentist. Also, the dentist guides proper oral hygiene practices and instructions for cleaning and maintaining the denture.
Recovery and Expected Progression
After undergoing dental implant surgery, expect a return to normalcy within a week. However, during osseointegration, you will need sufficient time to recover fully. Over the following few months, your implants will continue to heal and merge with your jawbone. During this period, you will continue following instructions provided during the treatment planning phase. Remember, the denture is functional, yet it remains unattached to your dental implants, ensuring proper healing of the implants.
On average, the healing process post-dental implant surgery takes between three to six months or longer if bone grafting was performed. For the most part, individuals can resume their regular activities within two to three days. To minimize discomfort and the risk of bleeding, it is advisable to refrain from strenuous exercise for at least 48 hours following the dental implant procedure.
Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures offer numerous benefits. Here are reasons why implant-supported dentures are an excellent alternative to traditional dentures:
Preservation of Jawbone Strength
These dental prostheses entail the placement of implants into the jawbone to support a complete set of teeth. Unlike conventional dentures, which rely on adhesives and oral muscles for stability, implant-supported dentures attach directly to the implant posts. Traditional dentures do not engage the jawbone, leading to its gradual deterioration over time. This deterioration can result in various oral issues, such as heightened bacterial growth and a sunken facial appearance. Implant-supported dentures offer a better option for edentulous patients who have no natural teeth for ordinary dentures.
Close Resemblance to Natural Teeth
Dentures supported by implants closely emulate the overall appearance of natural teeth. Each set is meticulously tailored to match the precise specifications of the patient. Once every tooth is meticulously fashioned in the laboratory, it will seamlessly integrate with your mouth, as though it was always meant for you. These implant-supported dentures not only look but also feel remarkably similar to your natural teeth, to the extent that you may even forget their presence.
Simplicity in Placement
The use of adhesive is unnecessary with implant-supported dentures, which saves both time and money for the patients. Despite being a more costly option, many patients view this as an investment in their oral well-being. While all types of dentures must be taken out before going to sleep, implant-supported dentures are notably more straightforward to remove and replace, eliminating the need for adhesive.
Complete Smile Restoration
Implant-supported dentures offer a solution for both upper and lower arches, creating a full, natural-looking smile. Traditional dentures often lack proper fit for the lower teeth, posing a particular challenge for individuals with missing teeth in both upper and lower jaws. In contrast, implant-supported dentures provide superior stability, particularly for the lower jaw.
Improved Chewing Function
Nutrition plays a vital role in both your overall health and oral well-being. With implant-supported dentures, you can enjoy a broader variety of foods compared to traditional dentures. This means you can confidently smile, laugh, eat, and live without worry as your implant-supported dentures securely remain in place, functioning much like natural teeth.
Who Is a Candidate for Implant-Supported Dentures?
If you have lost most or all of your teeth, your healthcare provider might suggest implant-supported dentures. Individuals with multiple missing teeth in various locations can also benefit from implant-supported partial dentures. Your dentist will assess your specific circumstances to determine the most suitable option for you. If you have insufficient bone in your jaw to support the dental implants, dental bone grafts can often be used to restore volume and density to the affected areas.
Contact Us Today!
Implant-supported dentures are one of the best solutions offered in implant dentistry. At New York Oral, Maxillofacial, and Implant Surgery, we pride ourselves on being among the leaders in restoration dentistry around Mt. Kisco. We help our patients find the best solutions to their dental problems. If you have lost several teeth, we are ready to help you. Reach out to us by calling (914) 768-8220, and we will guide you through the process. |
