Implant Dentures Prosper
An Upgrade from Traditional Dentures
Tooth loss is much more common than you may think. In fact, approximately 40 million Americans are missing all of their teeth. The good news is that even if you have extensive tooth loss, you may still be a candidate for dental implants. At Wisdom Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we offer implant dentures in Prosper to replace all of the teeth on an arch at once. The process is straightforward and comfortable when you work with a dental specialist like the ones on our team. To schedule a consultation, give us a call.
Why Choose Wisdom Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery for Implant Dentures?
- Led by Board Certified Oral Surgeon & Periodontist
- Specialty Dental Office That Delivers 5-Star Customer Service
- Latest Technology Leads to Precise Care & Predictable Outcomes
What Are Implant Dentures?
Traditional dentures work by using the shape and suction of the mouth to stay in place. On the other hand, implant dentures are supported by multiple dental implants strategically placed throughout the jawbone. Dental implants are usually made from titanium, which fuses to the jawbone in a process called “osseointegration.” This is what makes dental implants so stable, comfortable, and long-lasting. There are two types of implant dentures. Here’s how they work.
Fixed/Permanent Implant Dentures
A fixed implant denture is made to stay in place at all times. It can only be removed by a dental professional. In most cases, four to six strategically placed dental implants support the permanent denture. This is a preferred option for many because they act more like real teeth.
Removable Implant Dentures
Removable implant dentures, sometimes called “snap-op” dentures, are also held in place with dental implants. The difference is that they use clips or ball sockets to secure them. This way, patients can remove their dentures at home as needed for cleaning and sleeping.
The Implant Denture Process
During your consultation, we will examine your smile to determine if you are a good candidate for implant dentures. At this point, we will create a treatment plan that meets your needs. For some patients, preparatory procedures are necessary before placing dental implants to improve the probability of success.
After your gums and jaw are in good condition, the dental implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone. Then, they fuse in a process called “osseointegration.” This process can take anywhere from three to six months. Next, metal connector pieces, called “abutments,” are placed on the ends of your dental implants. Your final denture is designed and crafted according to your needs and secured in place by your dentist.
Am I a Candidate for Implant Dentures
The majority of healthy adults can get implant dentures. During your consultation with us, we will go over your needs and options in detail. To be a good candidate for dentures, you must:
- Be healthy enough to undergo minor surgery
- Be free of existing oral health issues
- Be able to maintain excellent oral hygiene
Benefits of Combining Dentures & Dental Implants
Implant dentures offer many benefits. Here are some of the ones that you can look forward to.
- Stability
- Security
- Bite force
- Natural-looking
- Comfort
- No adhesive
- Prevents bone loss
Implant Denture FAQs
How Long Will You Have to Wait to Get Implant Dentures After Your Teeth are Pulled?
It will depend on the nature of your tooth extraction and how quickly you recover from your treatment. It’s very important to wait until the gums and jawbone are fully healed before attempting to surgically place the dental implant posts that will connect to your denture. Plus, the shape of your mouth will change as the swelling goes down, making it best to take impressions after your recovery.
On average, most patients can start dental implant surgery after about six to eight weeks. Keep in mind, though, that you’ll also have to wait for osseointegration to occur before we can provide you with the denture portion of your restoration.
Do Implant Dentures Break Easily?
Not necessarily. Implant dentures in Prosper are very durable, but it is possible for them to break, so it’s still important to handle them carefully and take care of them properly.
If you have a removable implant denture, for example, you should keep the denture in a secure location when not in use. It’s also a good idea to lay a soft towel over your sink when cleaning the denture – that way, if you accidentally drop it, the towel will help prevent chipping.
If you have a fixed implant denture, you’re not at risk of dropping it, but crunching on ice and other hard foods can break a denture just like they can break a natural tooth. To help your restoration last as long as possible, avoid eating overly hard foods too frequently, and avoid using your replacement teeth as tools.
Should I Have All My Teeth Pulled to Get Implant Dentures?
Only if all of your remaining teeth are no longer healthy! An implant denture is a cutting-edge tooth replacement, but natural pearly whites are still far superior. In fact, most dentists will recommend preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. If it’s possible to save a tooth with a root canal, crown, or filling, doing so is ultimately better for your oral health.
Am I Too Young to Get Implant Dentures?
Not unless you’re under the age of 21! Most people’s jaw bones aren’t done developing until their early 20’s. Attempting to place dental implants when the bone is still growing would likely result in complications and is generally unsafe.
Other than that, there’s no such thing as being “too young” for an implant denture. Tooth loss can happen to anyone regardless of age, and it’s best to get a replacement as soon as possible. If an implant denture is right for you, we’d be happy to provide you with one!