If you have conventional style dentures, then you know what it is like to not be able to eat some of your favorite foods, or possibly have your dentures slip while you are speaking.  This can be uncomfortable and embarrassing at times.  Don’t worry, there is a solution.  Implant supported dentures can help solve such problems.  They offer extra support making it less likely for the dentures to become loose or slide out.

Implant dentures are recommended to people who are missing the majority, or all, of their teeth but still have enough bone to support the implants.  This option is quickly becoming the go-to-choice when it comes to replacing missing teeth.  Dental implants can be made for both the upper and lower jaw but are usually made for only the lower jaw.  This is because regular dentures are not as stable on the lower jaw.  Special attachments are used to snap the implants in place.  

Benefits of stabilizing traditional implant dentures

Feels and looks more natural in a patient’s mouth.

Easy to talk with.

Can chew food easier improving digestion.

Improves overall health.  

Easier to maintain and clean since it requires the same dental care as real teeth do.

It is more comfortable than conventional dentures.

Won’t have to deal with mouth sores or gum irritation.

Helps prevent jawbone tissue loss since it resembles natural looking teeth.

To find out if you are a candidate for dental implants, a dentist will perform a comprehensive exam.  Patients who become eligible, will have two to four implants placed in an arch to retrofit the dentures with snap on attachments.  This will hold the dentures firmly in place and can easily be removed to perform your daily cleaning routine.  The two types of attachment options are bar retained or ball retained.  Bar retained dentures are fitted either in the bar, the dentures, or both where the dentures are clipped into place.  Ball retained dentures use ball shaped (male) attachments that fit into the socket (female) or the dentures.  The denture will be made from an acrylic base to resemble the gums.  Then porcelain or acrylic teeth that will look like natural teeth are attached to the acrylic base.  Implants are mostly placed in the jawbone at the front of the mouth because more bone is usually there.  Plus, the front jaw does not have as many nerves that may affect the placement.  This process requires at least two surgical procedures.  

What to expect during your first appointment

Comprehensive oral exam.

X-rays if necessary.

3D imaging if needed.

Get your questions answered.

You will find out if you are a candidate for dental implants.

Discuss your treatment options.

After a dental implant procedure, you will feel pain and discomfort for about a week.  The implant area may be tender and sensitive.  To help with your recuperation, you will be instructed to avoid certain things.  Doing this will help you to have the best conditions possible during your recovery period.  Once healed, you will be able to enjoy your food and speak with confidence.  

What to avoid after a dental implant procedure

Smoking or tobacco products.

Excessive rinsing.

Hot or hard foods.

Intense exercise or physical activities.

Drinking with a straw.

If you have conventional dentures and would like to know if getting implants would be possible, call Guilliot Family Dentistry today.  They can create a customized treatment plan that works best for you.  Their friendly and experienced staff will help to make sure you are comfortable every step of the way.  They have two locations to better serve the Lafayette and Broussard surrounding areas.  To learn more about dental implants, schedule your appointment with Guilliot Family Dentistry in Lafayette or in Broussard today.  You could also visit their website http://guilliotdental.com to view other services offered.  

 Resources:

The Benefits of Using Dental Implants to Stabilize Dentures – https://www.gsodentist.com

What is Denture Stabilization – https://www.preferreddentalcenter.com

Dentures and Implants to Stabilize Dentures – https://www.myhopedental.com

Things to Avoid Doing After a Dental Implant Procedure – https://www.prohealthdental.com