Hartford Implant Overdentures
Traditional dentures are an effective way to replace missing teeth, but for many individuals, they are far from ideal. That is why we often recommend
implant-retained overdentures to our patients who are good candidates for them. They are a comprehensive tooth replacement solution that offers a number of remarkable benefits.
WHAT ARE IMPLANT-RETAINED OVERDENTURES?
Traditional dentures are secured in the mouth either via natural suction or with the help of a special adhesive. An implant overdenture, on the other hand, is anchored in place by a series of small titanium cylinders that have been surgically placed within a patient’s jawbone. It usually takes five or six implants to support a full denture.
Both fixed (permanent) and removable implant dentures are available. In some cases, it is even possible for a dentist to retrofit a patient’s traditional denture so that it is able to attach to implants. Other times, a dentist has to create a new prosthesis to go with the implants.
WHAT ADVANTAGES DO IMPLANT-RETAINED OVERDENTURES OFFER?
Implant-retained dentures offer some significant advantages:
- Traditional dentures need to be replaced every 5 – 8 years or so because the way they fit changes over time. Implant overdentures will always fit well, and they have the potential to last for several decades.
- Bone stimulation. Implants stimulate the jaw, helping it to stay strong and avoid the bone loss that occurs after tooth extractions.
- Traditional dentures sometimes slip out of place when their wearer is eating or speaking. Implants come with no risk of such uncomfortable and embarrassing incidents!
- It might take you a few days to adjust to your new teeth, but once you do, you’ll find that they’re quite comfortable.
- A strong bite force. Implants allow you to eat almost anything without taking any special precautions.
- Implant dentures look extremely natural.
WHO ARE IMPLANT-RETAINED OVERDENTURES RIGHT FOR?
The only way to find out for sure if implant-retained dentures are right for you is to visit your Dr. Michalski for a consultation. He will take some X-rays of your mouth, evaluate your oral health, and answer all of the questions you have about implants and implant-retained dentures. Then, together, you and he can decide whether to move forward with the implant procedure.
In general, candidates for implant-retained dentures:
- Have suffered extensive tooth loss. If the tooth loss is fairly recent, there is a chance that enough bone remains in the jaw to support implants. If it has been some time since you lost your teeth, you may need a bone graft.
- Are free of gum disease and other serious oral and overall health concerns.
- Are patient. The entire implant process may take several months to a year.
- Have excellent oral hygiene habits. Keeping a clean mouth is essential for preventing infection after the placement surgery.
To learn more about dental implants and implant-retained dentures, contact our office. Dr. Michalski and the rest of our team look forward to helping you regain your lost smile!
