Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures
Tooth loss is a dental complication that can have a significant impact on the strength, function, and aesthetics of the smile. The more teeth that are lost, the greater the impact will be. When a patient has lost the majority of their teeth or even an entire arch of teeth, dentures can restore oral function and improve the appearance of the smile. Traditional dentures rest on the gums and are held in place with special dental adhesives. While traditional dentures do have some advantages, Dr. Burton Gooch typically recommends implant-supported dentures for his patients. The numerous benefits of implant-supported dentures allow our Birmingham, AL, patients to enjoy their new smile without any fear of ill-fitting dentures that slip or fall out of place.
Superior Stability
Implant-supported dentures are anchored by a series of dental implants, which are surgically placed titanium screws. As the mouth heals after placement surgery, the implants fuse with the jawbone, creating a strong and durable bond. Abutments are then attached to the dental implants and protrude from the gum line to secure either a partial or complete set of dentures. Implant-supported dentures are not removable. They are securely attached to the dental implants, which provide patients with a superior level of stability. Because of the strong foundation provided by the titanium posts, implant-supported dentures will function just like natural teeth. The patient can bite, chew, and speak without any fear of the dentures slipping or falling out.
Preservation of Bone Strength
One of the many benefits of implant-supported dentures that sets them apart from traditional dentures is that they preserve the strength of the jawbone. When the natural teeth are lost, the jawbone at the site of tooth loss tends to suffer atrophy. This deterioration occurs because the bones no longer receive stimulation from the roots of the tooth. Although traditional dentures replace the crown of a missing tooth, they do not address the loss of the tooth roots, so the jawbone will still weaken and deteriorate over time. In patients with implant-supported dentures, the implants act as artificial tooth roots. Every time the patient bites down, the jawbone will receive the stimulation that was previously provided by the tooth roots. This preserves the strength of the jawbone and upholds the structure of the jaw and face.
Ease of Care
One common complaint about traditional dentures is that they require special care. To properly clean traditional dentures, they need to be removed from the mouth and soaked in a denture cleaner. Because implant-supported dentures are held securely in the mouth, they do not need to be removed for cleaning. Instead, implant-supported dentures can be brushed just like the natural teeth. This makes it especially easy to maintain a healthy, attractive smile.
Contact Us
Implant-supported dentures restore oral function, improve the appearance of the smile, and support the strength and health of the jawbone. If you have experienced significant tooth loss and would like to learn more about the benefits of implant-supported dentures, contact us at your earliest convenience. Dr. Burton Gooch looks forward to hearing from you!