Nothing is quite as annoying as having to deal with loose or otherwise uncomfortable dentures in your day-to-day life. From the ability to eat and chew foods with comfort to speaking in front of others without fear or hesitation, a loose or unstable set of dentures may make every single moment more difficult. However, for a patient who wants more from their restorations, implant-supported dentures can offer greater security, stability, and comfort. This restorative option attaches a custom denture to dental implants placed into the jaw. In cases in which full-arch, fixed options may not be appropriate, Prostho Endo Dental Group is the perfect choice for a patient who wants a secure, stable denture solution. If you are looking for information on dental implants in North Bethesda, MD, this option is well worth considering.
Combining Stability & Affordability
In cases in which full-arch, fixed treatment is not desired or needed, a patient may be interested in the option of implant-supported dentures, which can combine the benefits of dental implants with the affordability of a denture option. Rather than replacing every lost tooth with an individual dental implant, implant-supported dentures can combine fewer implants with the restoration that replaces each lost tooth to restore comfort and stability.
In order to develop the most appropriate course of treatment for a patient, Prostho Endo Dental Group will first understand what each patient is looking for in implant-supported dentures. While some patients just want the security of a snap-on denture that they can still remove, others may be looking for increased chewing strength and ability, comfort, and/or improved appearance when speaking, chewing, and smiling. Based on the goals and desires of the patient, we can develop the right treatment plan for them to ensure the best outcomes.
Eliminating Common Denture Frustrations
There are many benefits of implant-supported dentures for patients, including the opportunity to eliminate issues that are common with traditional dentures. Because traditional dentures are solely dependent upon the soft tissues of the mouth for their fit and stability, this can cause a number of issues for a patient, especially as they age or if they are eating foods that can easily dislodge them.
Some of the issues patients experience with traditional dentures include:
- Dentures that are loose when eating.
- Adhesives that do not work well.
- Irritation of the tissues due to rubbing or movement of the denture.
- Trouble speaking because the denture is not stable.
- Avoiding foods or other activities because of denture instability.
By using dental implants to support the dentures, this treatment plan can alleviate many of the issues and concerns commonly experienced with this form of restoration.
Improving Chewing Ability & Comfort
One of the primary advantages of implant-supported dentures is improved chewing ability, as the dentures are more stable than those that are only supported by the soft tissues. Because traditional dentures rely solely on suction for their stability, there is often some movement when pressure is applied to them during a chewing motion. With implant-supported dentures, the added level of stability and support means that patients are much more capable of chewing comfortably.
Denture wearers will also appreciate an improved overall comfort level when wearing this treatment option because the dentures are more securely in place. When dentures move or rub against the gums and soft tissues of the mouth, this can lead to tenderness and irritation. Because this form of denture is better supported by dental implants in the mouth, the overall level of comfort is increased as the patient’s dentures are kept more stable during function.
As is the case with any form of dental restoration or treatment, the final outcome can vary depending on each patient’s unique case and the specifics of their dental health.
Understanding Attachment Options
When choosing implant-supported dentures, there are a number of different attachment options to consider for a patient. A snap-on option may be used to attach the dentures to implants in the mouth, or, in other cases, implant-supported dentures may be held in place by a bar that connects to implants within the mouth.
There are advantages to each type of option, and the decision of which style of denture is best for a patient will depend on the needs and goals of the patient in consultation with their dental provider at Prostho Endo Dental Group. For some individuals, snap-ons may offer greater convenience and ease of care, whereas bar-supported dentures can provide additional retention in particular instances.
The optimal choice hinges on considerations like bone and jaw structure, bite strength, hand mobility, hygiene practices, and maintenance preferences. The priority at Prostho Endo Dental Group isn’t just installing an implant system and attaching a denture to it. Instead, we customize the attachment system to the patient, their function, their comfort, and their maintenance.
Personalized Treatment Planning For Better Results
Implant-supported dentures require careful planning. We examine your gums, bones, bite, and denture, your face shape, and your oral health before we decide the best treatment plan for you. x-rays and digital imaging can also help assess bone support, so we can determine the best placement and quantity of dental implants. Prostho Endo Dental Group’s focus on dental specialties and restorative dentistry allows patients to access the most well-rounded treatment plans. Implants, dentures, the bite, and maintenance should all be integrated into one plan.
This is particularly important for those who are long-term denture wearers, have lost bone density, and/or have had issues with previous dentures. A customized treatment plan also ensures that you understand the length of treatment, how many visits it will take, the stages of treatment (like recovery and healing), and how we will adjust and fit your new prosthesis.
Enhancing Confidence Through Greater Stability
Unstable dentures can also cause patients anxiety in social situations, and even cause patients to refrain from activities like laughing or eating with others. Implant-supported dentures allow patients to feel more confident while using the denture and interacting with others, since the prosthesis is more stable and reliable.
Additionally, implant-supported dentures can help enhance the facial structure that can be affected when patients lose their teeth. Not only does the prosthesis provide a replacement smile, but the added support of the implant system can help it perform like a natural tooth. In fact, many in North Bethesda, MD, feel that implant-supported dentures aren’t as much of a compromise to replace their teeth.
Caring For Implant-Supported Dentures
Even though implant-supported dentures provide more retention than traditional dentures, they also need maintenance. Patients should continue to clean their dentures, take care of their gums and teeth, and attend their regular dental appointments so the dental team can monitor the implants and the attachment. Attachments will need to be replaced over time, as they do wear out.
Home maintenance can involve cleaning around the implant attachments, brushing and rinsing after meals, and cleaning the denture out of the mouth. It is recommended that patients follow the instructions provided by the dental team. Routine check-ups will enable the dental team to assess the denture, the bite balance, the tissues around the implant, and the attachment before minor issues become more serious.
Long-Term Benefits Compared To Traditional Dentures
Compared to a traditional denture, an implant-supported denture can offer improved retention, chewing ability, comfort, and a more predictable and secure denture during everyday activities like speaking or eating. Additionally, there is the factor of quality of life. The implant-supported denture allows a patient to have an improved, long-term solution and a better ability to eat more foods they like.
Patients can have a better quality of life, both physically and psychologically, with more confidence. The treatment is designed to give you the best results, and we provide you with the best experience throughout.