If you have missing teeth, you may be considering dentures as a solution to improve your smile and your ability to eat and speak. However, traditional dentures do come with some drawbacks, including a tendency to sometimes slip or move around in your mouth, which can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Fortunately, there is a better option: implant-supported dentures. At Jax Dentures and Implants in Jacksonville, we specialize in using implants to give you back the smile you love!
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small post made of titanium that is surgically placed into your jawbone; they sit in your jaw early identical to anatomical tooth roots. Once the implant is placed, it fuses with the bone in a process that we call “osseointegration.” This fusion process creates a stable foundation for a replacement “tooth” or a set of teeth to attach to the implant via an abutment. The implant post acts like the root of the tooth, which provides the strength and support needed to hold the replacement tooth or teeth in place.
Depending on how many teeth are missing, we can use dental implants for stand-alone tooth replacement or pair them together to anchor dentures.
Implant-Supported Dentures vs. Traditional Dentures
Traditional dentures are removable appliances that rest directly on top of your gum tissues. Dentures are held in place by suction or sometimes an adhesive, but since they do not clip onto anything, they have a tendency to rub or feel a bit weaker when you’re biting into food.
In contrast, implant-supported dentures are anchored to anywhere from 2-4 dental implants. This means they won’t slip or move around like traditional dentures. Implant-supported dentures provide a more stable and secure fit during the day, but they’re still removable at night-time for easy maintenance.
Why Choose Implant-Supported Dentures?
Implant-supported dentures are a modern alternative to traditional dentures. Because dental implants are made to clip onto implants, they offer a sturdy solution to bite and chew with. An implant-supported denture is securely anchored in place throughout the day because it has more of a “grip” than one that rests against your gum tissues. Implant-supported dentures can also improve your ability to eat and speak confidently.
Caring for Dental Implants vs. Dentures
All dentures, whether traditional or implant supported, should be cleaned daily and removed at night. Similarly, be sure to clean your gum tissues and see our dentist for routine exams.
Both implant-stabilized and traditional dentures require daily cleaning with a denture brush and an approved denture cleaner. They should also be soaked overnight in a denture solution to keep them clean and prevent them from drying out.
One of the advantages of implant-supported dentures is that they don’t require the use of denture adhesive or special cleaning solutions. This can make them more convenient and easier to care for than traditional dentures.
Since implant-supported dentures use special rubber-like locators to clip onto the implants, they can occasionally wear out and need to be replaced. Thankfully this is a simple maintenance process and can be completed during your routine checkup.
Are Dental Implants Right For Me?
If you’re considering dentures, why not talk to us about implant-supported dentures? At Jax Dentures & Implants in Jacksonville, FL, we offer a range of dental implant solutions, including implant-supported dentures, to help our patients achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.
During your consultation with Dr. Russell, we will discuss goals and recommend the best treatment plan for your needs. He will explain the benefits of implant-supported dentures, answer any questions you may have, and provide you with a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique situation.
Call Our Office Today Dental implant-supported dentures offer several advantages over traditional dentures, including improved stability, comfort, and convenience. If you are considering dentures to replace missing teeth, schedule a consultation with Dr. Russell at Jax Dentures & Implants in Jacksonville, FL today
