If you have multiple missing teeth in your mouth, there are several treatment options available. Dentures are a common option because they're convenient to wear and they effectively replace missing teeth. However, regular dentures are prone to wear and tear. After heavy use, they tend to become loose and can easily slip out of the mouth.
Implant-supported dentures are an effective option for replacing multiple missing teeth. These dentures are essentially a hybrid between dental implants and regular dentures.
How do they work?
Implant-supported dentures are surgically installed inside your jawbone so they remain firmly in place. They come as either a group of individual implants held together by balls and joints (ball retained) or as a continuous bar that fits comfortably along the surface of your jawbone. This bar is attached to several dental implants (that take the place of your missing teeth).
Here are 4 reasons why this technique is useful.
1. A more permanent and reliable solution
Because implant-supported dentures are screwed in place using metallic rods, they anchor firmly and don't fall off even after heavy use. Therefore, you don't have to worry about how often you chew and whether your dentures will accidentally fall off during a meal.
2. More comfortable
Implant-supported dentures are also installed after a careful preparation process. First off, your dentist will determine if your jawbone is healthy enough to support the implant. Bone grafting may be necessary to strengthen your jawbone for this implant procedure.
With a strong and healthy jawbone, the dentures will attach firmly and comfortably, causing minimal discomfort over time. You don't have to worry about your dentures not fitting well or irritating your teeth and gums.
3. Biting and chewing food are easier
The firmness with which implant-supported dentures are installed makes them perfect for biting and chewing food. Patients with missing teeth often have a challenging time eating certain types of food.
Regular dentures don't make things much easier because they may slip out of position when coming in contact with hard items. The firmness of implant-supported dentures allows you to explore healthier and more diverse dietary options.
4. Maintenance is less involved
While both regular and implant-supported dentures are removable, the latter is easier to maintain. All you need to do is remove them every night and carefully brush the entire surface before soaking them overnight.
Regular dentures require more delicate care, as you need to ensure that they don't fall or break when removing them. You also have to keep close track of how well they fit in your mouth over time.
For many years, I hated the way my teeth looked. They always looked discoloured so I would do everything I could to hide my smile. On family photos, my mom would always complain that I never gave a grin like my brothers and sisters. When I graduated college, I decided I needed to take action. I contacted my local dental surgery and asked them about tooth whitening treatments. The dentist was great and gave me all of the info I needed. After the treatment, my smile was like a million dollars. I decided to start this blog to educate others about the benefits of teeth whitening and other dental treatments.