Implant Dentures Landrum

What Are Implant Dentures?

Dental implants are small titanium cylinders, also called posts, that get surgically placed into the jawbone. Once they bond with the surrounding tissue, they are able to provide a strong base of support for crowns, bridges, and dentures. Due to their secure base, implant dentures are often much stronger and natural-feeling than their traditional counterparts.

There are two main categories of implant dentures. During your consultation, we will recommend the one that best fits your unique situation.

Fixed/Permanent Implant Dentures

As you might guess from their name, fixed implant dentures are permanently attached to the posts that support them; they should only be removed by a dental professional. Many patients gravitate toward this treatment because they like the idea of always having their teeth in their mouth. One drawback to this option is that it requires more implant posts and therefore greater jawbone density than removable dentures.

Removable Implant Dentures

Removable implant dentures are easy for patients to remove on their own. Also called Snap-On dentures, these prosthetics may require as few as two posts per arch, making them a great option for patients who have lost some bone density in their jaw but who still wish to enjoy all the benefits of a strong, secure set of teeth.

The Implant Denture Procedure

The implant denture procedure involves four main steps:

• Initial consultation: Our team will verify that you are a good candidate for implant dentures before we start planning the details of your treatment.
• Implant surgery: A qualified local specialist will place implants in your jawbone at precise, pre-planned positions.
• Over a period of a few months, your implants will bond with the bone around them. Then, you may receive abutments (small connector pieces) to go on top of your implants.
• Restoration: You will receive your beautiful new denture.

Although the process can seem lengthy, you can look forward to absolutely amazing results!

Am I a Candidate for Implant Dentures?

A good candidate for implant dentures typically has the following traits:

• Healthy gums. (You should not have active gum disease.)
• Adequate bone density in the jaw.
• Commitment to thorough oral hygiene.
• Non-smoker or willingness to quit smoking
• Overall decent health.

Most adults with missing teeth can qualify for this procedure, even if they first require preliminary care, such as bone grafting or treatment for gum disease. That is why we encourage everyone to visit us for a consultation; after talking to us, you can understand exactly what it may take to rebuild your smile.

Benefits of Combining Dentures & Dental Implants

Implant dentures offer some truly remarkable benefits:

• Implant dentures provide a secure fit, so you do not have to worry about them slipping or falling out when you speak or eat.
• The stability of implant dentures enables you to enjoy a wider variety of foods, including those that are hard or chewy, which you would not normally be able to eat with traditional dentures.
• Dental implants help to preserve the bone in your jaw, preventing the bone loss that typically occurs with traditional dentures.
• Maintaining implant dentures is easy; if you have a fixed prosthetic, you can treat it almost exactly like natural teeth.
• Investing in implant dentures can save you money in the long run; they typically require fewer repairs and replacements compared to traditional dentures.