Implant retained prosthesis is an advanced fixed restoration that replaces a complete set of teeth in the mouth. Traditional dentures have several limitations like instability, difficulty eating foods, or discomfort. Fixed dentures offer increased stability and eliminate all the inconveniences associated with conventional dentures.
What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?
An implant-supported denture has special clips that snap onto the attachments of the dental implants. The dentures are held firmly in place with the support of strategically placed dental implants. These dentures can either be fixed or removed based on the patient's needs and preferences.
How Do Implant-Supported Dentures Work?
Implant-supported dentures are ideal for patients looking for a more durable option for replacing lost teeth. The procedure includes placing four or more dental implants into the jawbone's strategic sites with sufficient bone density to support the implant posts. These implants will serve as tooth roots and encourage bone growth, besides providing a solid base to hold the fixed dentures securely in position.
Process of Implant-Supported Dentures
The entire process of implant-supported dentures generally involves at least two surgeries and a couple of months to complete. We will take X-rays and scans during your preliminary consultation to determine your suitability for the implant process. One of the chief criteria for implants is to have sufficient jawbone density.
During the first surgery, the dental implants will be placed into your jawbone after making a small incision to expose the jawbone. The incision is sealed with sutures, and the process is repeated for all the implants. After the first surgery, a few months are allowed for the implants to graft with the surrounding bone tissues.
The implants are exposed during the subsequent surgery, and connector pieces called abutments are placed. The abutments will serve as a base to hold the dentures comprising the artificial teeth. Once everything is found satisfactory, the dentures are permanently secured in place, using ball attachments to stabilize the new restoration.
Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures
- Strong, stable bite
- No slipping or falling out
- Improved speech
- Enhanced self-confidence
- Jaw bone preservation
- Comfortably rests on implants
- Permanent solution with proper care
How Long Do the Implant-Supported Dentures Last?
The implant-supported dentures usually last up to twenty years. When these dentures are cared for properly and the jawbone is kept healthy, the need for a new appliance will not arise for a long time. The dentures should be removed and cleaned regularly for better oral hygiene.
To learn more about implant-retained prostheses, visit our office, Amin Tabatabaian DDS PLLC, at 5701 Northeast Bothell Way Suite 3, Kenmore WA, 98028. You can also reach Dentist Kenmore WA at (425) 486-9233.
