Missing teeth can be distressing since they negatively impact your oral functions like mastication and speech, in addition to poor aesthetics. Teeth replacement through dentures was widely recommended decades ago. But now they have been replaced by implant-supported dentures. 

Implant-supported dentures in Wichita Falls offer excellent teeth replacements with enhanced durability and stability.

What are implant-supported dentures?

Oral devices or restorative appliances that replace several missing teeth at once are known as implant-supported dentures. Unlike conventional dentures, they are directly attached to your jawbone using dental implants, instead of resting on top of your gums. Dental implants are tiny screw-like posts that replace missing tooth roots. Implant-supported dentures offer improved stability for chewing and speaking.

What are the types of implant-supported dentures?

There are two types of implant-supported dentures, namely:

• Removable implant-supported dentures: These snap onto the dental implant and can be removed whenever wanted.
• Fixed implant-supported dentures: These are hybrid dentures that are permanently fixed to your jawbone and cannot be removed. 

Who needs implant-supported dentures?

Your dentist may recommend implant-supported dentures if you are missing most or all of your teeth. People who are missing several teeth in isolated areas can greatly benefit from implant-supported dentures. 

Criteria to be a suitable candidate for implant-supported dentures 

• You must have sufficient bone density and volume 
• You must have healthy gums 
• You must be an adult with a fully developed jawbone 
• You must be patient enough to undergo a tedious process that may take a long time

If you have insufficient bone thickness, your dentist may recommend bone grafting initially before getting an implant-supported denture.

How are implant-supported dentures placed?

Getting implant-supported dentures involves the following steps:

• Extraction of any remaining tooth remnants near the missing space. 
• Incision to raise a gum flap that helps expose your jawbone. 
• Drilling a tiny hole in the bone to insert the implant post. It usually takes 4 to 6 months for the implant to fuse with the bone. Meanwhile, you will be provided with healing dentures. 
• Recording oral impressions of your arches that are sent to the lab for crafting your new dentures. 
• Attaching the customized dentures to your implants. 

What are the benefits of implant-supported dentures?

Implant-supported dentures can offer a wide range of benefits. They:

• Do not slip like conventional dentures due to improved stability 
• Aid in bone stimulation to prevent bone resorption
• Resemble your natural teeth
• Lasts longer than conventional dentures

Tooth loss can negatively impact your self-esteem and quality of life. But thanks to implant-supported dentures, you can restore your oral health and function for a long-lasting, beautiful smile.