Restore Your Spectacular Smile with Implant-supported Dentures
Patients who have lost several teeth or a complete dental arch can restore the appearance and function of their smile with implant-supported dentures. Jersey City Dental has over six decades of experience restoring beautiful, functional smiles in the Jersey City, NJ area. Tooth loss can occur for any number of reasons, including age, trauma, or disease, and can greatly affect dental function and self-confidence. While traditional dentures were the only tooth replacement solution for many years, implant-supported dentures have made a positive impact in the dental community as a superior solution for replacing missing teeth.
What Are Implant-supported Dentures?
An implant-supported denture is a restorative oral device designed for patients missing an entire row of teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Rather than resting on the gums as with traditional dentures, the implant denture is secured to dental implants that have been surgically placed in the jawbone. These implants, similar in size to a tiny screw and made from titanium, bond with the jaw and function like tooth roots, providing a secure foundation for your denture.
What Are Implant-supported Dentures?
An implant-supported denture is a restorative oral device designed for patients missing an entire row of teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Rather than resting on the gums as with traditional dentures, the implant denture is secured to dental implants that have been surgically placed in the jawbone. These implants, similar in size to a tiny screw and made from titanium, bond with the jaw and function like tooth roots, providing a secure foundation for your denture.
Am I a Good Candidate?
Implant-supported dentures are a good solution for patients who are missing an entire arch of teeth or facing the prospect of significant tooth loss. Candidates for implant-supported dentures should have healthy and sturdy gums, free of gum disease. If bone degeneration has occurred as a result of infection or a negative side effect of long-term tooth loss, patients may first need to undergo bone grafting to provide a stable foundation for the implants. Implant-supported dentures may also deliver better results for patients who are dissatisfied with wearing traditional dentures.
Implant-supported dentures are a good solution for patients who are missing an entire arch of teeth or facing the prospect of significant tooth loss.
The Implant-supported Denture Process
During the initial consultation, one of our dentists will examine your gums and jawbone using state-of-the-art dental technology to determine if you are a good candidate for implant-supported dentures. After determining your candidacy, we will work closely with a reputable oral surgeon in the area to coordinate your dental implant placement.
The dental implant process can be completed over the course of four to six months in about five steps:
- Dental Implant Placement: On the day of your procedure, the oral surgeon will administer anesthesia for optimal comfort. Small incisions are made in the gums and the implants are inserted. The number of implants required will depend on the location of your denture.
- Recovery: You will be given a list of instructions to follow while you recover. During this three to four month healing period, also known as osseointegration, the implants will bond with the jawbone to provide a secure foundation for your dentures. For patients missing an entire arch, temporary dentures can be secured to help improve your dental function as you heal.
- Abutment Attachment: Once the implants have successfully integrated, a simple follow-up procedure will be performed to attach the abutment piece onto the top of the implant posts, providing a secure connection for your restoration.
- Impressions: Our office will take digital impressions of your jawbone, and use advanced CEREC® technology to fabricate your denture once you have fully recovered. Digital impressions eliminate the need for messy, uncomfortable putty impressions, and provide a more detailed model of your mouth for a custom, well-fitted denture.
- Restoration Placement: Once the restoration is ready, you will visit the office for the final step. At this time, the dentist will check that the restoration fits, make any necessary adjustments, and secure it to the implants. The doctor will also explain how to care for your device.
Implant-supported dentures can provide a number of benefits over traditional dentures.
Implant-supported Dentures vs. Traditional Dentures
While traditional dentures provide an affordable, effective solution to replacing missing teeth, they can shift when eating or talking, resulting in a clicking sound and uncomfortable sores along the gum line. Due to their short lifespan, they usually require refitting every five to seven years.
Implant-supported dentures can provide a number of benefits, including:
- Healthy bone regrowth
- Greater stability and comfort
- Long-lasting results
- Improved self-confidence
- Better dental function, allowing you to eat your favorite foods and speak with clarity
Learn More about Implant-supported Dentures
If you are looking for an alternative to traditional dentures or have recently experienced complete tooth loss, you may find that implant-supported dentures are a great solution for restoring your smile. Send our office a message or call (201) 332-0403 to schedule your consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do implant-supported dentures stay in place?
Implant-supported dentures are secured to dental implants placed in the jawbone. This provides a stable foundation that helps prevent slipping or shifting during eating and speaking.
Am I a good candidate for implant-supported dentures?
Patients with missing teeth who are looking for a more stable alternative to traditional dentures may be candidates. A dental evaluation is needed to determine if this option is appropriate based on your oral health and bone support.
What are the benefits of implant-supported dentures?
Implant-supported dentures offer improved stability, enhanced chewing ability, increased comfort, and a natural-looking appearance compared to traditional removable dentures.
How are implant-supported dentures placed?
The process begins with placing dental implants in the jawbone. After a healing period, a custom denture is attached to the implants to provide a secure and functional fit.
Are implant-supported dentures permanent?
Implant-supported dentures can be either fixed or removable, depending on your treatment plan and individual needs.
Can implant-supported dentures improve my smile and function?
Yes. These dentures help restore your ability to chew and speak comfortably while supporting a natural-looking smile.
Jersey City Dental
Our compassionate team of dental professionals believes in providing conservative care in a comfortable and pleasant environment. Our dentists are affiliated with many esteemed organizations:
- American Dental Association
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
- Academy of General Dentistry
- American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Schedule an appointment at our Jersey City, NJ, practice online or by calling (201) 332-0403.