The Drawbacks of Traditional Dentures
Traditional, removable dentures are a convenient restoration method used to manage some of the effects of tooth loss, but they cannot serve as a long term solution.
Dentures can only stay in place with the help of adhesives, which can be grimy, messy, and foul tasting. If adhesive is not properly removed between uses, the buildup it leaves behind can attract bacteria, causing bad breath and infection.
Dentures rest on your gums instead of your jawbone, reducing bite force up to 50%. Dentures also can’t adequately protect you from the health issues caused by tooth loss such as loss of jawbone density and gum disease.
The Benefits of Implant Supported Dentures
Implant supported dentures offer a number of advantages over traditional removable dentures that can make them a more attractive long term option. Those advantages include:
- Affixed to your jaw so they won’t slip or fall out
- Stimulate your jaw to maintain jawbone density
- Preserve the shape of your face
- Affordable method for replacing full sets of teeth
- Implants themselves can last a lifetime
- Denture restorations are durable and long-lasting
- Protect your gums from the wear and tear of chewing
- Protect against infection
- Shorter installation time
- Easier recovery process
3 Steps To A Full Smile
Completing your smile with implant-supported dentures is easier than ever due to advances in technology and procedure. With only a few appointments, you can regain your confidence with a new set of teeth. Here are the steps to a complete smile:
Consultation
Before any dental procedures can take place, you’ll attend a consultation with our dentist, Dr. Stovall. During your consultation, Dr. Stovall will examine your mouth, review your medical history, and discuss your smile goals with you.
Dr. Stovall will use the information collected during your consultation to determine if you’re a candidate for implant-supported dentures. If your bone density or gum tissue mass is insufficient Dr. Stovall may recommend supplemental procedures to increase your chances of successfully integrating the implants.
Implant Surgery
- We’ll apply a local anesthetic so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. If you’re experiencing dental anxiety, be sure to ask us about sedation dentistry options before the procedure.
- After ensuring your anesthetic is working properly, Dr. Stovall will make incisions in your gums.
- Biocompatible titanium fixtures, which will serve as the foundation for your restoration, will be inserted into these incisions.
- Dr. Stovall will sew these incisions shut and you’ll return to our office once your jawbone has fully fused to the titanium fixtures in a process called osseointegration. This process can take anywhere from three to six months.
Denture Placement
- When you return, abutments will be attached to the titanium dental implants and serve as the connector between the implants and your denture.
- Your restoration, the denture, will be attached to the implants with the abutments.
- Once the dentures are installed and comfortable, you can walk out of our office the same day and enjoy your new smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the best candidates for implant-supported dentures?
While we offer several types of dental implants, implant-supported dentures are for patients who are missing an entire arch of teeth. If you’re interested in learning about our tooth replacement options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Stovall by calling (919) 583-7081.
During the consultation, Dr. Stovall will examine your oral health and provide you with information so you can make the best decision based on your needs and smile goals.
In order to qualify for the surgery, you’ll need to be in good overall health, free of gum disease, and have sufficient bone density. We may recommend a supplemental surgery prior to receiving dental implants to ensure the procedure has the best possible outcome.
How long after an extraction to get dental implants?
You’ll have to wait two to three months after an extraction before undergoing a dental implant procedure. This will ensure the extraction site and bone have fully healed. During the healing period, you’ll have the option to wear a temporary denture so you don’t have to worry about living with an incomplete smile.
Dr. Stovall will examine your oral health to determine when you’re ready for dental implant surgery. Waiting too long after an extraction may lead to bone loss, so she’ll be sure to monitor you closely to decide the best time.
How long do implant-supported dentures last?
While the dental implants themselves can last a lifetime, you’ll have to replace your dentures with normal wear and tear. Dentures can last 10 to 20 years by maintaining a proper oral care routine of brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing between meals.
In addition to following a proper care routine, you’ll want to have biannual checkups and professional cleanings at our Goldsboro office to improve the longevity of your restoration.
Are implant-supported dentures removable?
Implant-supported dentures can only be removed by a qualified dentist. During your biannual appointments, Dr. Stovall will remove the dentures to clean them. In between appointments, you’ll care for them the same as you would your natural teeth by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing between meals.
Implant-supported dentures require the same maintenance as your natural teeth. No need to take them out before bed to soak them, or apply adhesives to get them to stick. Just brush and care for them like they’re your natural teeth.
Will insurance cover implant-supported dentures?
While most insurance companies classify the procedure as cosmetic, it also has restorative benefits and insurance may cover a portion of the expenses. We recommend contacting your provider prior to your consultation to get a better understanding of your specific coverage.
If you have any questions we can answer, don’t hesitate to call our office at (919) 583-7081 and one of our helpful team members will be happy to assist you.
Implant Supported Dentures for Affordable Arch Replacement
At Stovall Dental, we use dental implants to ensure our patients achieve a highly functional and long-lasting smile. With implant-supported dentures, Dr. Stovall can offer you a replacement for entire rows of teeth that won’t break the bank or keep you in the chair long, while also providing the health benefits of dental implants.
If you’re missing some or all of your teeth, contact Stovall Dental at our office in Goldsboro, NC to schedule a consultation with Dr. Stovall. Dial (919) 583-7081 or fill out our online contact form. Dr. Stovall and their team are happy to explain how implant supported dentures can give you a life changing smile.