Understanding Implant Over Dentures: A Comprehensive Guide
What are Implant Over Dentures?
Implant over dentures represent a significant advancement in dental prosthetics. They are a type of denture that is supported by dental implants, providing enhanced stability and comfort compared to traditional dentures. This innovative solution is ideal for those who have lost most or all of their teeth and desire a more functional and aesthetically pleasing option.
Benefits of Implant Over Dentures
Choosing implant over dentures comes with a multitude of benefits that significantly improve the quality of life:
- Improved Stability: Unlike traditional dentures that can slip or shift, implant-supported dentures stay securely in position thanks to the dental implants embedded in the jawbone.
- Enhanced Comfort: With no need for messy adhesives and less pressure on gums, implant over dentures offer unparalleled comfort.
- Better Chewing Ability: These dentures allow individuals to enjoy a wider variety of foods, making dining a more pleasurable experience.
- Bone Preservation: The presence of implants stimulates the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that often occurs after tooth extraction.
- Natural Appearance: Implant over dentures can be designed to look and feel like your natural teeth, enhancing your smile.
- Greater Confidence: The secularity of implant-supported dentures can give wearers the confidence they need to laugh, talk, and eat without fear.
How Do Implant Over Dentures Work?
The mechanism behind implant over dentures is both simple and sophisticated. Here’s how the process generally works:
- Initial Consultation: Your dentist will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure.
- Implant Placement: Titanium implants are surgically placed in the jawbone, serving as artificial tooth roots.
- Healing Period: After implant placement, a healing period is required for the bone to fuse with the implants, a process known as osseointegration. This typically takes a few months.
- Denture Fitting: Once the implants have integrated successfully, custom dentures are created to fit over the implants securely.
- Follow-Up Care: Regular dental visits and proper oral hygiene are essential to ensure the longevity of both the implants and the dentures.
Candidates for Implant Over Dentures
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for implant over dentures. Ideal candidates typically include:
- Individuals who have lost most or all of their teeth in the upper or lower jaw.
- Patients with sufficient bone density to support dental implants, or are willing to undergo bone grafting procedures.
- People who are committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups.
- Individuals in good general health, as this affects the healing process post-surgery.
Understanding the Implant Over Dentures Procedure
Here’s a more detailed look at each step of the implant over dentures process:
Consultation and Planning
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation. The dentist will conduct x-rays and scans to assess bone structure, and discuss your medical history. This step is crucial to ensure the best possible outcome.
Surgical Placement of Implants
During the surgical procedure, local anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort. The dentist makes incisions in the gums and places titanium implants into the jawbone. In some cases, temporary dentures may be provided during the healing period.
Osseointegration Phase
Following the surgery, a healing period is necessary. During this time, the jawbone will grow around the implants, securing them in place. This process usually takes between 3 to 6 months.
Creating the Custom Dentures
After healing, impressions of your jaw are taken to create custom dentures that fit over the implants. The dentist will ensure that they are comfortable and look natural.
Final Placement
Your custom dentures will be placed, and adjustments can be made for optimal comfort and functionality. After placement, you’ll have a follow-up appointment to check the fit and function of the dentures.
Aftercare and Maintenance
After receiving implant over dentures, proper care is critical to ensure their longevity:
- Daily Cleaning: Brush your dentures daily and rinse them after eating to prevent plaque buildup.
- Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular appointments with your dentist to monitor the health of your implants and gums.
- Dietary Considerations: Initially, you may need to avoid hard or sticky foods, but most patients can return to their typical diet after a short adjustment period.
- Be Mindful of Changes: Be aware of any changes in comfort or fit, which should be reported to your dentist promptly.
Potential Risks and Considerations
As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks associated with implant over dentures. Some to consider include:
- Infection at the implant site.
- Failure of osseointegration, where the bone does not fuse properly with the implant.
- Damage to surrounding teeth or blood vessels during the surgery.
- Sinus issues if implants are placed in the upper jaw.
It’s important to discuss these risks with your dentist during your consultation.
Costs of Implant Over Dentures
The cost of implant over dentures can vary widely based on several factors:
- The type and number of implants needed.
- The complexity of the case, including the need for bone grafts.
- Geographical location and the experience of the dental provider.
- Any additional treatments required.
On average, patients can expect to invest several thousand pounds, but payment plans or financing options may be available.
Conclusion
In summary, implant over dentures are a remarkable solution for those seeking a stable, long-lasting alternative to traditional dentures. They not only enhance aesthetics but also improve functionality, allowing individuals to enjoy life with greater confidence. If you’re considering this option, consult with a qualified dentist to discuss your specific needs and develop a tailored treatment plan.
Get Started Today
At Chiswick Park Dental, we specialize in providing comprehensive dental solutions, including implant over dentures. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to helping you achieve your ideal smile. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a confident and beautiful future.
