What Are Implant Dentures?
Instead of resting on the gums like traditional dentures, implant dentures are attached to small titanium posts that are surgically placed below your gumline, called dental implants. After they’re secured in your mouth, the implants undergo a process called osseointegration, where they’re able to naturally fuse with your jawbone to provide a strong and stable foundation for your prosthetic teeth. This feature also allows the implants to act like the roots of your natural teeth by providing necessary blood flow and stimulation to your jawbone, preventing it from deteriorating and changing the shape of your face. Once the process is complete and your dentures are attached to the implants, you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful, natural-looking smile that’s healthy and strong.
Depending on your unique circumstances, your implant dentist in Moses Lake might recommend one of the two types of implant dentures:
Fixed/Permanent Implant Dentures
This prosthetic is permanently attached to the implant posts that support them. Only a dentist can remove a fixed implant denture. Since they remain in your mouth at all times, you can brush and floss just as you would with a complete set of natural teeth. In most cases, it takes between four and eight implants to secure a full denture.
Removable Implant Dentures
Alternatively, your implant denture can be designed so that you can take it out of your mouth at any time. This may be ideal for patients who are already used to removing their dentures for daily cleaning. Removable implant dentures generally require fewer implants than fixed dentures, so they may benefit patients with lower jawbone density.
The Implant Denture Process
The process of getting implant dentures typically takes longer than that of conventional dentures, but this solution is more than worth the wait! All in all, it may take several months to a year or longer, as the implants will need between three and six months to integrate with your jawbone.
After your consultation with Dr. Harder, our team will refer you to one of the best oral surgeons in Grant County that we actively partner with to insert the implants. After that, you’ll return to our office so we can take impressions to craft your new dentures. Once the implants are bonded to your jawbone, we can secure your new prosthetic to your implants, completing your newly restored smile.
Am I a Candidate for Implant Dentures?
Implant dentures have a few unique requirements that a patient must possess compared to regular dentures. The most common traits of a good dental implant candidate include:
- Having sufficient bone density in the jaw.
- Not having bad oral habits, like teeth grinding and tobacco use.
- Being free of any untreated oral health problems.
- Not having any autoimmune conditions that could impact the rate of healing.
- Not being pregnant.
The best way to learn whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants in Moses Lake is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Harder. If you aren’t eligible right away, we may suggest preparatory procedures to help you become so. This may include gum disease therapy or bone grafting to strengthen your jawbone if it has weakened after tooth loss.
Benefits of Combining Dentures & Dental Implants
Why get implant dentures instead of regular dentures? Implant dentures come with several benefits that you won’t get with traditional prosthetics, such as:
- Implant dentures let you chew practically any food.
- You’ll never need to worry about your teeth slipping or falling out of your mouth.
- Dental implants prevent the jawbone from shrinking after the teeth are lost.
- With the right care, you can expect your implant dentures to last for several decades, making them a smarter financial investment than regular dentures.
