Why Your Dentures Should Be Implant-Supported
Many people who wear dentures eventually decide to have their devices supported by dental implants. Here are a few reasons why.
Implant-supported Dentures Are More Stable
Dentures are sometimes only held in place by the suction created as the base of the device rests against the roof of the mouth or other soft tissues. Although the suction does help with the stability of the dentures, it may not be enough to hold the device in place when a person chews hard or chewy foods. Some dentures even slip about when a person speaks or laughs.
Dental implants are prosthetic dental roots that serve as foundations for tooth-replacement devices. Like the natural roots of a tooth, an implant rests in the bone of the jaw. After an implant's placement, jawbone cells integrate with the device, securing it firmly in place. When a denture is attached to a dental implant, the denture is stabilized by the connection.
Implant-Supported Dentures Are Still Removable
Traditional dentures are removable. Thus, if a bit of food or other debris becomes trapped between a denture and the gums, the wearer can easily remove the denture to rinse or clean them. Dentures that are supported by implants continue to be removable.
The attachment mechanism on the underside of the denture is releasable. Thus, the denture wearer can simply release the denture from the abutment of the implant to remove the false teeth for cleaning or during periods of rest.
You May Be Able to Have Your Current Dentures Converted
If you decide to have dental implants placed to support your dentures, you don't necessarily need new dentures. Your dentist may be able to fit your current dentures with the mechanisms necessary to attach them to the implants.
Dental Implants Are Versatile
If you decide to have an all-on-4 or other tooth-replacement device installed in the future, you may be able to use your current implants with the new device. The implants are designed to last indefinitely, and they are unlikely to fail if the initial implant wound heals properly.
Dental Implants Stimulate the Jawbone
Without natural teeth to transmit bite pressure, your jawbone does not receive the stimulation that it needs to remain thick and healthy. Dental implants transfer pressure to promote jawbone health. Thus, as the implants support your dentures, they also help prevent jawbone shrinkage.
To learn more about dental implants that are used to support dentures, schedule a consultation with your dentist.