5 Facts to Know About Implant Dentures
Tooth loss can be stressful, but today's tooth loss solutions can look and feel as natural as the real thing. Implant-supported dentures are designed to give you the comfort and security of dental implants combined with the convenience of traditional dentures. If you're new to the concept of implant dentures, read on to learn more about this versatile tooth loss treatment and find out if it's right for you.
Fact 1: Implant dentures are removable
When most people think of dental implants, they’re picturing a permanent solution that’s fixed in place. The truth is that while dental implants (the titanium post that forms the foundation for your artificial teeth) are indeed a permanent solution that can last a lifetime with proper care, your prosthetic teeth can snap on or off the implants when you need them to.
You can take the arch of prosthetic teeth out for cleaning or soaking at night. This removable design offers the best of both worlds. You get the stability of implants when you’re eating or speaking, and the convenience of being able to remove the denture for care and maintenance. It’s a considerable difference over traditional dentures, which rely on suction or adhesives to stay in place.
Fact 2: Implant dentures help prevent bone loss
One of the reasons why replacing missing teeth is vital is that teeth provide essential stimulation to your jawbone. When you lose teeth, the jawbone no longer receives the natural stimulation it gets from chewing. Over time, that lack of stimulation can lead to bone loss, which may affect the shape of your face and contribute to a sunken appearance.
Dental implants act like artificial tooth roots. They fuse with your jawbone and provide the stimulation needed to keep bone tissue healthy and help prevent bone loss. Implant-supported dentures offer a long-term solution that may help maintain your jawbone density, facial structure, and oral health.
Fact 3: Implant dentures don’t cover your palate
Traditional upper dentures often come with a full plate that covers the roof of your mouth or the palate. This design helps your dentures stay in place, but it can interfere with your ability to taste and enjoy food. It may also feel bulky or uncomfortable.
Implant dentures are secured to dental implants anchored in your jaw. Their implant-supported design allows your palate to remain uncovered. If you’re a traditional denture-wearer, uncovering your palate may improve your sense of taste and make your meals more enjoyable. It may also let you eat and speak more comfortably. This benefit of implant dentures may often be overlooked, but it can be a big improvement for people used to traditional dentures.
Fact 4: Implant dentures support a varied diet
Sticky snacks, chewy meats, or crunchy vegetables are usually off the menu for traditional denture users since they can dislodge your denture or cause discomfort. On the other hand, implant dentures provide much better stability, allowing you to enjoy a wider variety of foods. From crisp apples to perfectly cooked steaks, these dentures give you the freedom to eat more of what you love without worry. It’s still important to take care when chewing, especially hard or sticky foods with implants. However, the risk of your dentures coming loose is lower with implants holding them in place.
Fact 5: Implant dentures require similar care and maintenance to natural teeth
Implant dentures are not vulnerable to tooth decay, but unchecked plaque build-up on your dentures and implants can cause gum disease. In the long run, untreated gum disease can compromise both your implants and oral health. Caring for your implant dentures is an important part of oral hygiene. Here are some steps to keep in mind.
Remove and clean your dentures once or twice daily.
Soak them in denture solution (as recommended by your dentist)
Brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth.
Clean around the implant posts with a soft toothbrush.
Visit your dentist regularly for checkups.
Use an antibacterial mouthwash if necessary.
Proper denture care enhances the longevity of your prosthetics and keeps your smile looking great for years.
If you're seeking implant dentures in Sarasota, Orlando, Tampa, or any other city, don't be afraid to share any questions or doubts you may have with your dental care team. Your team can provide guidance and support to help you make the right decision.
