If you’ve been relying on dentures to treat your missing teeth, dental implants can give you the next best thing to your natural smile. If you’re ready to make the swap from dentures to dental implants, the process will take time. Here’s what you can expect when transitioning to implant dentures.
Consultation and Treatment Planning
You’ll require a consultation with your dentist to ensure dental implants are right for you. They will examine your mouth and review a CT scan to look for anything concerning, like bone loss or gum inflammation. They’ll also use the scans for treatment planning to pinpoint the precise location to insert 4 to 10 dental implants to support your denture.
Preparatory Procedures
Tooth loss can cause your jawbone to shrink by up to 25% within the first year of missing a tooth. If you’ve been using dentures for several years, your jaw may have suffered significant bone loss. There’s no reason to worry. It’s not unusual for patients to require bone grafting before getting dental implants. Based on the results of your consultation, you may require other preparatory procedures as well, like gum disease treatment.
Implant Placement Surgery
After your mouth has healed from any preparatory treatments, you’ll be scheduled for your placement surgery. Sedation or anesthesia will be used to block any discomfort as your dentist inserts your posts into your jawbone. Your jaw must fuse to your implants through a process called osseointegration, which can take several weeks.
Getting Your New Teeth
Once your jawbone has healed, you’ll be fitted for your new denture, which will be attached to your implants using special fixtures. You’ll never have to worry about slipping or irritation. You can regain up to 70% of your natural biting force to enjoy a variety of foods to support your wellness.
However, don’t expect to bite down into a juicy hamburger right away. It will take time to adjust to eating with dentures, but you can smile confidently in the meantime. Your new tooth will look natural and only a trained dental professional will know they aren’t real.
Your new teeth can last 4 decades with the correct care, like brushing and flossing. Transitioning to dental implants won’t happen overnight, but it’s time well-spent to enjoy the most revolutionary procedure for tooth loss.
About Dr. Matthew Hart
Dr. Hart earned his dental degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and has continued his education in implant dentistry and dental sedation. He combines the art and science of dentistry to create healthy, beautiful smiles. He is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the Academy of General Dentistry. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (931) 548-6154.