When it comes to missing teeth, you might be looking for an easy, one-size-fits-all solution. Unfortunately, the reality is that the right denture options will vary from patient to patient. Although traditional removable dentures are a popular option to treat missing teeth, there are a few reasons why they might not always be the right option for patients.
The most common form of dentures are removable and unsecured, meaning that they can be worn and removed without the aid of implants. However, this is not always a feasible option for every patient.
One of the primary reasons why a patient might need implant supported removable dentures over traditional ones is because they find conventional dentures uncomfortable or awkward. This might lead to a patient not wearing their dentures often enough, getting food particles trapped under their dentures, or experiencing difficulties with chewing and speaking.
Implant retained dentures work a little bit differently than traditional ones as they are made to fit into place with the help of small devices that are surgically implanted into the mouth. Although the implants are designed to be permanent, you will not have permanent dentures. Just as with any other dentures, you will be able to remove your implant retained dentures.
Often, patients are able to adjust well to upper dentures. It is typically lower dentures that create the most discomfort and problems. With the support of an implant, you can have overdentures which act as “snap in dentures” that will fit securely into an implanted device, leaving your dentures more stable while chewing and speaking.
Although you will still require periodic adjustments and proper upkeep to keep them secure, if you are struggling with traditional dentures, implants might just offer you the better solution that you are looking for.
The Implant Process
The first step on your journey to comfortable, affordable dentures is always a consultation, where we will help you find the best treatment option for your needs.
If implant supported dentures are the right option for you, then the following steps will need to be taken to ensure the most comfortable and natural fit:
- A mould of your mouth will be taken to ensure your dentures will fit perfectly
- Any teeth that need to be removed will be extracted by dentist
- Your implants will be placed by the dentist
- As times goes on, adjustments will be made to maintain durability and prevent movement and discomfort
Some of the most common forms of surgical implants include bar attachments (one long bar across your gums that your snap in dentures will attach to) and ball attachments (small ball-shaped implants that your overdentures will attach to). Regardless of the implant type, you will be able to remove your overdentures for cleaning just as with traditional dentures.
Caring for Implant Supported Overdenture
All dentures will require daily upkeep, but fortunately, it is not challenging to clean and care for your dentures. Some tips for maintaining your dentures include:
- Brush them daily, both inside and outside to remove food particles
- Avoid foods that are particularly chewy or crunchy, or have gotten stuck under your dentures in the past
- When you first get your dentures, eat only soft and liquid foods, and slowly introduce harder foods back into your diet
- Use denture creams for cleaning, rather than toothpaste
- When you aren’t using your dentures, keep them in water or denture-cleaning solution
- Do not try to repair your dentures by yourself– always take them into your denturist, even for minor repairs
- Speaking to your denturist as soon as you notice any movement or discomfort
Cost of Implant supported overdentures
The cost of implant supported overdentures will vary from patient to patient depending upon the type of implants. Still we strive to ensure that every person has access to affordable dentures. For a more accurate perspective on what the costs will be, book an appointment with us today: Waterloo 519-884-8386 and Fergus 519-787-1262