Implant Dentures

A dental implant denture connects to cylinder-like configurations that are called implants.  These implants have to be surgically implanted into your jawbone.  It will then look like a traditional prosthesis.  However, the difference here is that the part of your denture that is overlying the dental implants is modified in order to retain the various semi-rigid attachments that receive the dental implant extensions that project over the top of the gum.  Herein your dental implant dentures will be held securely in place while you eat and speak but can still be easily removed by you for cleaning.

There are 3 phases to the dental implant dentures process:

1.You will need to have your dental implants completely inserted into precise preparations in your jawbone.  These cylindrical shaped configurations are made of pure titanium metal.  Once they are inserted into your jawbone, gum tissue will be closed with sutures over the implants.  You will need to have at least 2 of these dental implants.  You may need more due to your anatomical limitations since you will need to ensure that you have enough support for retention.

2.A temporary denture will need to be worn during your healing period. Throughout this time dental implants are left undisturbed beneath your gum tissue for several months.  This allows your bone to reorganize and grow around the dental implant so that it can be securely anchored into your jawbone.  After this healing is done, gum tissue over the top of your dental implant will be removed in order to expose the dental implant itself.  An extension will then be screwed into the exposed dental implant and adjustments will be made so that you have a denture that can be worn while your gums heal. 

3.A permanent denture will then need to be made and screwed into your dental implant extensions.  Special provisions are made in order to ensure that this denture interlocks properly.  This can be done through a metal or plastic attachment that clips onto the metal superstructure or through a nylon receptacle.  The superstructure is what helps to securely maintain your denture while you are eating and speaking.

As you may expect, you will need to have very good oral hygiene in order to prevent disease from developing around your dental implant dentures.  These also need to be checked and professionally maintained by a licensed dentist on a regular basis. You may also find periodic adjustment and replacement necessary.  So, as you can see, this is a complex and expensive procedure.  However, the value far exceeds any monetary considerations.

Furthermore, you should know that your dental implant dentures may last you a lifetime.  Of course, they could also deteriorate in just a few years.  The superstructure itself may need to be replaced in 5 years though.  All of this depends upon the system that is used.  Dental laboratories are continuing to work towards long-term durability of these dental implant dentures.

Posted in Dental Implants