Severe tooth loss is a common occurrence as we age. However, it can also happen to younger patients due to a lack of oral hygiene or an injury. Fortunately, advancements in dental technology have made it possible to restore your smile with dental implants. Seaside Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers denture implants in Hampstead, NC, also known as implant-supported dentures, for patients suffering from total tooth loss or who are missing many teeth. A denture that is supported by dental implants is a revolutionary solution that can transform your smile and improve your quality of life.
What are Denture Implants?
Denture implants, also known as implant-supported dentures, are a modern solution to tooth loss. Patients with missing teeth on the top or bottom arch can replace them with a denture that is secured to dental implants. Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums and rely on suction, muscle control, or denture adhesive to remain in place, denture implants are more secure. The dentist or oral surgeon will place anywhere from two to eight implant fixtures in the jaw. Then your Seaside Family and Cosmetic Dentistry dentist will restore it with a custom denture.
Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures can provide you with numerous benefits over traditional dentures. Removable dentures can slip or move around in the mouth if they do not fit properly. On the other hand, an implant-supported denture is secured to dental implants, providing a stable and natural-feeling fit. You will not need to use a messy denture adhesive. Also, you can confidently eat, speak, and smile without worrying about your dentures shifting.
Furthermore, denture implants stimulate the underlying jawbone, preventing bone loss that often occurs with missing teeth. This helps to maintain the natural shape of your face and prevent a sunken appearance. Additionally, implant-supported dentures are designed to look, feel, and function like your natural teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing smile. You can also enjoy a wider variety of foods because they offer a greater chewing force than traditional dentures.
In addition to the physical benefits, denture implants can also have a positive impact on your emotional well-being. Many individuals who have struggled with the confidence and self-esteem issues associated with missing teeth find that denture implants provide a renewed sense of self-assurance. With a beautiful and complete smile, you can confidently engage in social interactions and enjoy a higher quality of life.
The Process of Getting Denture Implants in Hampstead, NC
Getting denture implants is a multi-step process that requires careful planning. The first step is a comprehensive examination and consultation, during which your dentist will assess your oral health, take X-rays, and determine if you are a candidate for denture implants.
If you are a candidate, the next step involves the placement of dental implants. For this part, you will meet with a local oral surgeon for this part of the process. The oral surgeon will insert the small titanium posts into the jawbone in to serve as the artificial tooth roots.
After about 3-6 months, the implant fixtures will have fused to the bone. Your dentist can now create a custom denture and securely attach it to the dental implants, providing you with a natural-looking and functional smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be without teeth at any point during the process?
No, you usually won’t be without teeth. Temporary dentures or bridges are often provided during the healing phase after implant placement. These temporaries help you eat, speak, and smile normally while the implants bond to your bone. Once healing is complete, the final dentures are attached.
How do implant-supported dentures affect speech compared to traditional ones?
Implant-supported dentures are more stable, which helps you speak more clearly and naturally. Traditional dentures can slip or shift, causing speech issues like slurring or lisping. Implants keep the dentures firmly in place, making it easier to pronounce words without fear of movement.
Do implant-supported dentures need to be removed at night like traditional dentures?
No, implant-supported dentures typically stay in place at night, especially if they are fixed (permanently attached to the implants). If you have a removable type that clips onto implants, we might suggest removing it for cleaning. Your dentist will explain the right care routine based on your specific design.
Can the implants or dentures ever come loose or fail over time?
While implant-supported dentures are highly successful, implants can occasionally fail due to infection, poor healing, or heavy smoking. Proper care, good hygiene, and regular dental visits greatly reduce this risk. If the denture feels loose over time, your dentist can adjust or reline it for a better fit.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for implant-supported dentures?
You’re likely a good candidate if you have a healthy jawbone and gums and no major health conditions affecting healing. Even with some bone loss, bone grafting can often prepare you for implants. A dental exam, X-rays, and medical history review will confirm if implants are right for you.
What’s the difference between traditional dentures and implant-supported dentures?
Traditional dentures rest on your gums and rely on suction or adhesives, which can cause slipping and bone loss over time. Implant-supported dentures anchor directly to implants in your jaw, offering more stability, better chewing ability, and bone preservation. They feel more natural and secure compared to traditional options.
Schedule a Consultation for Denture Implants in Hampstead, NC
Denture implants can provide you with a solution for full-arch missing teeth. With so many benefits, an implant-supported denture is better for your well-being and oral health.
If you are looking for the best way to replace your teeth, contact Seaside Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today. Request an appointment with us on our website or call us at 910-335-4392.
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