Implant Supported Dentures
Implant-Supported Dentures
For children, losing a tooth is an exciting sign of growing up; but as an adult, losing a tooth is a reason for concern. Tooth decay, aging, or injuries are some of the problems that may lead to tooth loss in adults. Spaces left by missing teeth are unattractive and unhealthy for the rest of the teeth in the mouth. When gaps are present in the mouth, the integrity of the jawbone can be compromised and bone loss can occur.At his Nashville cosmetic dentistry practice, Dr. Clint Newman offers his patients implant-supported dentures to replace missing teeth.
Dental Implants
For some of our Nashville patients, dentures seem like an inconvenient solution for missing teeth. They are most likely thinking of traditional dentures that need to be removed for cleaning and may not fit comfortably in the mouth. Dr. Clint Newman takes advantage of the latest advances in dental technology to offer his patients dental implants as an anchor for permanent dentures. Ideal candidates for dental implants are patients who have healthy gums and enough bone to support the implant.Surgery is required to place dental implants into the jawbone. Before we are able to place permanent dentures onto the implants, the implant will need to fuse to the bone. This healing process can take up to four months. Another minor treatment is required to attach a post to the dental implant. This post protrudes above the gum line and will secure the permanent dentures to the gums and jawbone. Placing dental implants is a lengthy procedure but the permanent results will be well worth the effort.
Benefits of Implant-supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures are often recommended to patients because they offer several benefits over traditional dentures.- Patients with permanent dentures can avoid embarrassing social situations; dentures that click while speaking, slip out of place, and need to be removed for cleaning will be a thing of the past.
- Dental implants last a lifetime so even if your dentures become damaged, you will never need to repeat the oral surgery stage of the the implant procedure.
- Implant supported dentures are the closest replication of your natural teeth because they replace the tooth and the root.
- Implant-supported dentures function well and allow patients to avoid food restrictions that are usually recommended with traditional dentures.
- Patients with implant-supported dentures can avoid the need for partial denture clasps, which are unattractive and can cause damage to opposing teeth
- Dental implants have an excellent success rate; more than 90 percent of patients are satisfied with the results.
Implants vs. Dentures
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are inserted into a patient’s jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants can be a viable alternative to traditional bridgework such as dentures. In addition, they stimulate and maintain jaw bone, which helps prevent bone loss and helps maintain facial features. Loss of teeth due to trauma or tooth decay can make you self-conscious. Dental implants can help give you back the confidence to openly talk, smile and laugh again. If you're are anxious about coming to the dentist, or aren't looking forward to the discomfort often associated with getting dental implants, please explore our sedation dentistry options to ensure your visit is a comfortable one.- They’re less maintenance- Dental implants require attentive oral care to prevent gum diseases and decay, but you don’t have to remove them until they’re ready to be replaced, unlike dentures.
- They’re a better fit- Dental implants are secured directly into the jaw or gum, therefore they have no risk of falling out at random. Where as dentures are held in place by a wafer or adhesive, and if the bond isn’t applied correctly, they are likely to move around or even fall out.
- They’re more natural looking- Dentures can be glaringly obvious when you open your mouth too wide. However, dental implants are rooted underneath the fake teeth, so you are unable to tell a difference.
- They last longer- Dentures typically last between 5-7 years, where implants can last up to 40 years.
