Implant-supported dentures are a type of denture that is held in place by dental implants, which are small titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone. The denture is then attached to the implants, providing a secure anchor that holds the denture in place. They are a good option for people who have lost most or all their teeth, but still have enough bone density in their jaw to support the dental implants.
The process for getting implant supported dentures involves several steps, including a consultation with your dentist, placement of the dental implants, and fabrication of the dentures.
The implant supported dentures process are:
- Step 1: Consultation: The first step is to schedule a consultation with your dentist to determine if implant-supported dentures are right for you. Your dentist will examine your mouth and jawbone, take X-rays or CT scans, and discuss your options with you.
- Step 2: Implant placement: If you are a good candidate for implant-supported dentures, the next step is to have dental implants placed in your jawbone. This is done under local anesthesia and involves making small incisions in your gums to access the bone. The implants are then placed into the bone and the incisions are closed with sutures.
- Step 3: Healing period: After the implants are placed, there is a healing period of several months. During this time, the implants fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. This creates a secure anchor for the denture.
- Step 4: Attachment of abutments: Once the implants have fused with the bone, abutments are attached to the top of the implants. Abutments are small connectors that hold the denture in place.
- Step 5: Fabrication of denture: Finally, a denture is fabricated that is designed to fit securely onto the abutments. The denture is then attached to the abutments, providing a secure anchor that holds it in place.
- Step 6: Follow-up care: After your implant-supported dentures are placed, you will need to see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. You will also need to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, to keep your implant-supported dentures clean and healthy.
Implant supported denture vs Implant
Implant-supported dentures and implants are two different dental procedures, although they both involve the placement of dental implants in the jawbone.
Implant-supported dentures, also known as over dentures, are a type of denture that is supported by dental implants. Typically, four to six implants are placed in the jawbone, and the denture is attached to the implants using abutments. Implant-supported dentures are a good option for people who have lost most or all of their teeth, but still have enough bone density in their jaw to support the dental implants. Implant-supported dentures offer several benefits over traditional dentures, including improved stability and comfort, improved speech and chewing ability, and better oral health.
On the other hand, dental implants are a tooth replacement option for a single missing tooth or several missing teeth. A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration. After the implant has fused with the bone, an abutment is attached to the implant and a dental crown is placed on top of the abutment. Dental implants are a good option for people who have lost one or more teeth, and want a long-lasting and natural-looking replacement option.