Are you someone who uses dentures? Or are you someone who is missing a lot of teeth and looking for a solution? Then you must have experienced this. How annoying it is to have dentures that move and shake when you talk, laugh, and especially when you eat. Because of this, sometimes you are afraid to smile happily, right? But don't worry, there is a very successful and permanent solution to this today. That's what we are talking about today.
Simply put, what are Implant-Supported Dentures?
This is also a type of denture. But it's not just a denture that sits on top of your gums like a regular denture. This is something that is attached directly to your jawbone. Think of it like when you build a house, you lay the foundation and build the building on top of it. In this method, you surgically insert several small titanium screws into your jawbone. This is what we call dental implants . This implant works just like the root of our real tooth.
Then, a custom-made denture is either "clipped" onto the implant or permanently attached. This allows it to move like a regular denture, and it is very stable without slipping. Eating and talking are much easier.
Who is this really suitable for?
If your upper or lower jaw is not all the same, or if you have a lot of missing teeth in one place, your dentist may recommend this method.
But to qualify for this, there is one important thing that must be met. That is, you must have enough healthy jawbone to place those dental implants that we mentioned. Some people experience jawbone loss over time. But don't worry, if that happens, you can regrow your jawbone with a surgery called 'Bone Grafting' . Your dentist will explain to you what is best for your situation.
Removable and permanent - which is right for you?
There are two types of dentures that are attached to implants. The choice of one of these two depends on the health of your jawbone, your medical history, and your preferences.
| Tooth set type | Description |
|---|---|
| Removable type | It "snaps" to the implants in the jawbone, which means it's attached like a clip. So it doesn't move. But you can take it off at any time, clean it thoroughly, and put it back on. You can even take it off at night. |
| Fixed / Hybrid | This is permanently attached to the implant. You cannot remove it at home. If necessary, only a dentist can remove it for maintenance. It is cleaned just like brushing our real teeth. You have to use special tools (floss threaders, interproximal brushes) to clean under the set of teeth. |
In particular, the "All-on-4®" method belongs to this permanent type. In this method, a complete set of teeth is attached to the jawbone using only four (4) implants.
What is the step-by-step process for setting this up?
This is not something that can be done in one day. There are several steps, but the end result is well worth it.
1. Preparation before surgery: First, if you have any decayed or damaged teeth, they need to be extracted. As we mentioned earlier, if the jawbone has worn away, bone grafting can be done. It can take several months for these to heal. During this time, you will be given a temporary set of teeth (healing denture).
2. Implant placement: Next, a dental surgeon will place the implants into your jawbone. It usually takes 3 to 6 months for the implants to integrate with your jawbone. During this time, you will still wear the temporary dentures.
3. Impressions: Once the implants have healed properly, your doctor will take impressions of your upper and lower jaws. These will be sent to a dental lab to begin making the perfect set of dentures for you.
4. Fitting the final set of teeth: Finally, the set of teeth made specifically for you will be brought in and fitted to the implants. The doctor will also teach you how to properly clean and care for them.
Advantages, disadvantages and how long does it last?
Like any medical treatment, this one has advantages and minor disadvantages.
| Benefits | Risks/Disadvantages |
|---|---|
|
|
If you take good care of your implants, they can last a lifetime . The overdentures usually need to be replaced every 15-20 years .
Recovery and return to work
Most people can return to normal within a week after implant surgery. However, it takes several months for the implants to fully integrate with the jawbone. During that time, you will have a temporary set of teeth, so this will not be a problem.
You can usually return to your normal activities in two to three days. However, avoid strenuous exercise for the first 48 hours after surgery to reduce bleeding and pain.
Is it safe to eat while wearing these?
Yes, absolutely. Once the implants have healed well and the final set of teeth has been placed, you can enjoy almost all your favorite foods without any worries.
When do you suddenly need to see a doctor?
If you experience any of these symptoms after having implant surgery, call your dentist immediately:
- If there is heavy bleeding that does not stop .
- If you have pain that cannot be controlled even after taking painkillers.
- If there is pus coming out of the implant site or signs of infection .
- If you have a fever (over 101 Fahrenheit / 38.3 Celsius).
Losing teeth can have a huge impact on a person's self-confidence and happiness in life. But with modern treatments like these, you can regain that lost confidence and happiness.
Take-Home Message
- Implant-supported dentures are a stable, long-lasting solution that doesn't move like regular dentures.
- To be eligible for this, your jawbone must be healthy and thick enough.
- Talk to your dentist to choose the type that is best for you (removable or permanent).
- To keep these in place for a long time, it is very important to keep your mouth and teeth clean. Clean them thoroughly every day.
- This is one of the best solutions for tooth loss. To learn more about this, see a qualified dentist today.
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