If you’re in search of the ideal replacement for your missing teeth, consider investing in implant-retained dentures. It’s a safer option than those that rest on top of your gums now, and you won’t have to worry about dentures that might slip or fall out.

Implant retained dentures involve replacing the tooth’s root so that the jawbone receives the stimulation it requires to stay healthy. You’ll be less likely to lose teeth in the future with this dental procedure.

A Close Look At Implant Retained Dentures

The implant retained dentures generally stay in place because they’re secured in place by implants.

In most cases, dental implants are screws made out of titanium introduced into the jawbone to stabilize the dentures in place.

Generally, it would require two to four dental implants in the jaw to ensure one denture remains stable. In some cases, a person might require more implants for better security and stability, but it usually depends on your specific treatment objectives and available budget.

What You Need To Know About Implant Retained Dentures

Once you’re eager to undergo this dental procedure, you should know what’s involved. There are several things to know when it comes to implant-retained dentures.

• The Procedure For The Placement Of Implant Retained Dentures  

Getting implant-retained dentures can take time, so if it’s your first time, here’s a quick glimpse of what happens to remedy your missing tooth, whether due to severe damage from dental caries or knocked out during an accident.

• Initial consultation 

Your dentist will inspect your dental and medical history during the first appointment while performing diagnostic tests such as an X-ray or a CT scan. Lastly, the dentist will also perform a dental impression of your teeth and gums that’ll serve as a model. The process will help your dentist determine the quantity and quality of your jaw and facial bones and decide on the ideal location for the implants.

• First surgery 

The dentist creates an incision in the selected gum area for the implant, which will serve as an access point for drilling into your jawbone to place the implant. The dentist will repeat the same process with additional implants. After suturing the incisions, the dentist will place the temporary fixture unattached without pressure on the implants.

• Second surgery  

The second operation takes place four to six months after to allow proper fusion of both bone and implants. Once the time for your second operation arrives, the dentist will request another X-ray to check if the fusion of the implants into the jawbone is successful.

To reveal the upper segment of the implants, the dentist will make a small incision in your gums. To promote the healing of the surrounding gum tissue, the dentist will place a metal healing cap on each implant. The dentist will exchange the metal caps with conventional abutments after 14 days. To construct your permanent dentures, the dentist will obtain imprints of the gums and abutments.

• Testing and insertion phase  

The dentist will position titanium connectors on the abutments to recreate what your dentures will look and feel. If further adjustments are no longer necessary, the scale model will be forwarded for processing and completing the final dentures. Once complete, the dentist will secure the new dentures to the implant abutments.

At this point, when there’s a complete fusion of both bone and implants, they’re now strong enough to hold the dentures. Generally, implants on the upper jaw can take five to six months to recuperate, and those on the lower jaw can take four to six months.

• Price Of The Procedure  

Traditional implants can cost anywhere from USD$1600 to USD$2200 for each arch. Nevertheless, the overall price will depend on various factors, including the number of implants, the specific type, and the materials used.

Remember that it’s impossible to obtain an accurate estimate of the price until you’ve gone through consultation and a treatment plan is created by your dentist.

• Potential Risks  

Although the introduction of dental implants has its share of complications, such as tissue damage, infections, gum damage, and recession, most people still find implant-retained dentures a good choice.

One way to minimize possible complications after the dental procedure is to work with a dental provider with years of experience handling dental procedures involving implants.

• Diet When You Have Implant Retained Dentures  

Once the dentist carries out the necessary adjustments to your newly placed dentures, you’re allowed to consume almost any type of food you enjoyed previously. However, it would be best to avoid foods containing seeds or nuts since they tend to move under the dentures and trigger gum irritation.

• Sleeping With Implant Retained Dentures  

If you have implant-retained dentures, make sure you take them out before going to bed. Doing so will help keep any complications at bay, especially denture damage or yeast infections.

• Reasons To Get Implant Retained Dentures  

Implant retained dentures may be a more secure option than conventional dentures.

Here are reasons to get implant-retained dentures:

• Better comfort since most people who receive dentures say they don’t even notice they have them on.
• It’s stable and doesn’t float or become ill-fitting.
• Unlikely to cause the formation of aching spots.
• Allows better chewing ability and biting force, ensuring the wearer can eat even difficult to chew foods.
• It prevents possible bone loss associated with missing teeth. Generally, it keeps your facial structure the same while keeping your overall oral health in good shape.
• Maintains the appearance and function of natural teeth

Final Thoughts  

Implant retained dentures can be a great remedy for missing teeth. For superior stability and comfort, implant-retained dentures can endure for a long time, making them a worthwhile investment for your oral health.