Improve Function and Stability with Implant-Supported Dentures

Traditional Dentures vs Implant-Supported Dentures

Both traditional dentures and implant-supported dentures offer full-arch replacement. However, implant-supported dentures offer astounding advantages over traditional dentures. Some benefits include:

• Improved Chewing Function: Traditional dentures tend to shift or slip out of place when eating or chewing. Implant-supported dentures offer three times the biting force of conventional dentures, so you can eat your favorite foods without worry.
• Improved Speech: Many patients complain that traditional dentures can cause them to slur their speech or mumble. Typically, this is due to tense facial muscles that are working overtime to keep the prosthesis in place. Implant-supported dentures are stable, and do not cause this issue.
• Superior Comfort: Because implant-supported dentures are custom-made for your mouth, they offer a sleek and comfortable design. The additional stability achieved by the implants also helps the denture stay in its proper place without the use of dental adhesives.
• Natural-Looking: The materials used to fabricate dentures are incredibly lifelike, and offer an aesthetically-pleasing outcome.
• Bone Preservation: Dental implants stimulate the nerves in the jawbone, just as natural teeth roots do. This prevents the bone degeneration that gradually occurs following tooth loss. As a result, you will not experience the “sunken-in” look that many patients develop after years of missing teeth.
• No Gum Erosion: Over time, traditional dentures can wear down the gums, requiring numerous adjustments to improve the fit. Implant-supported dentures do not place excess pressure on the gums.
• Increased Confidence: Patients who choose implant-supported dentures enjoy much more freedom and an improved quality of life. With improved function and stability, you will be able to eat, speak, and smile with total confidence.

Full-Arch Replacement Options

Patients who are missing all of their teeth on the upper arch, lower arch, or both have different options for implant-supported full-arch replacement. At Adel Dental Associates, we offer:

• Traditional Implant-Supported Dentures: Patients with a strong jawbone with sufficient jawbone tissue to support implants can often benefit from receiving six to seven dental implants per arch. This option provides optimal stability for a removable denture.
• All-on-4® Dental Implants: For patients who do not qualify for traditional implants due to bone deficiency, the All-on-4® dental implant treatment concept is an excellent option. Maximizing the existing jawbone, Dr. McCartney can strategically angle the implants to support a fixed full-arch restoration.

Treatment Timeline for Implant-Supported Dentures

Because each patient is unique, treatment can vary for every individual. While some patients will be able to move forward with the placement of the implants, others will need to undergo preparatory procedures beforehand. In order for dental implants to be successful, they must be placed into a healthy foundation. Therefore, to qualify for implants, some patients may need tooth extractions, bone grafts, or gum grafts. If preparatory procedures are required, full healing must take place before the next phase can be completed.

Once you are ready to receive your dental implants, they will be inserted during a surgical procedure at our office. After the implants are placed, a process called osseointegration must occur, in which the jawbone fuses to the implants for optimal stability. This process usually takes between three to six months.

After the healing period is complete, we will attach connectors to the implants. Types of connectors can vary depending on the type of prosthesis you are receiving. Your full-arch restoration can then be secured. The result is a healthy, beautiful, and stable smile.

Comprehensive Care for Your Convenience

At Adel Dental Associates, we understand visiting the dentist can be time-consuming, especially if you require multiple visits to complete your treatment. For the convenience of our patients, we provide all treatments related to implant-supported dentures under one roof, including any necessary preparatory procedures.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you would like to learn more about full-arch replacement options, schedule an appointment with Dr. McCartney. You can contact us online, or call our office at (229) 896-7679.