Implant Supported Dentures
Many people with traditional dentures suffer from complications such as slippage, the inability to eat certain foods, and bothersome adhesive gels and oral glues. Thanks to advancements in reconstructive dentistry, our experienced dentists offer a more stable and aesthetically pleasing denture option called implant supported dentures. Also known as mini dental implants or implant anchored dentures, the technique can be a great option to restore both form and function to your teeth.
What Are Implant Dentures?
Implant dentures are dentures that are secured to the gumline through the use of dental implants. Often considered an upgrade from traditional dentures, this advanced procedure is designed to provide a more comfortable fit than is commonly achieved with unaffixed dentures. The process involves the insertion of small titanium posts into the gum tissue, where they will serve as the fastening points from which the dentures can snap in and out of place. They can be an excellent option for individuals who wish to replace most or all of their missing teeth and would also like to minimize the inconveniences of loose dentures, such as gum slippage and a reliance on oral pastes. By utilizing implant dentistry to secure the dentures, the anchored restorations are intended to look and function like a natural part of your mouth.
What are the benefits of Implant Dentures?
Our doctors make it their mission to utilize the most beneficial techniques to enhance the lives of our patients. Implant supported dentures can offer a number of advantages, including:
Greater Stability – The dentures have a significantly reduced chance of slipping and shifting while you eat or talk.
More natural look and feel – The dentures are precisely aligned and shaped specifically to fit your mouth.
No gels and glues – Because they are implanted, there is no need for adhesives to hold them in place.
In general, implant dentures can offer patients freedom from the limitations and inconveniences of removable dentures. One primary benefit of anchoring dentures into place is the ability to eat tougher foods, as well as a wider range of foods. Your dentures should no longer slip uncomfortably, making it easier to chew with confidence. Furthermore, implant dentures can lead to less bone loss when compared to other restorative options, such as traditional dentures and bridges.
Am I a candidate for Implant Dentures?
Implant supported dentures can offer enhanced comfort, security, and confidence to a number of individuals seeking a steadfast alternative to traditional dentures. Ideal candidates for the implant denture procedure have healthy gum tissue and enough jawbone density to accommodate the implants’ insertion into the gums. Patients who have less than adequate jawbone density for a full dental implant procedure may also be good candidates for implant supported dentures.
Those considering treatment should be in relatively good health and have no diseases or conditions that may complicate the healing process. Men and women undergoing chemotherapy or radiation may not be good candidates for implant dentures.
How is Implant Dentures procedure performed?
The implant supported denture procedure can often be performed during a one-time, minimally-invasive treatment. Rather than bonding to the jawbone like full dental implants, the small titanium rods are inserted into the gum tissues and act as a root to hold the dentures in place. The dentures are then connected to the tips of the implanted rods, resulting in much greater stability. Sutures are generally unnecessary and recovery time is usually minimal.
Patients generally report that implant dentures involve no more discomfort than most other major dental procedures. In order to further minimize patient discomfort, this treatment is typically performed utilizing a local anesthesia. At Aesthetic Smiles of New Jersey, we wish to provide high-quality dental care that is also convenient and comfortable, which is why our cosmetic dentists are highly trained in sedation dentistry techniques that can help ease the apprehensions of those who may experience dental anxiety. While some methods of sedation dentistry induce a sleep-like state, others can allow individuals to enter a calm state of mind prior to the procedure while remaining fully aware during the course of their treatment.
What are the results of Implant Dentures?
At the end of the procedure, the appearance of your smile as well as your biting function should be restored with anchored dentures that fit comfortably in your mouth. Implant dentures are designed to be a long-lasting restorative solution that does not require retreatment. The small titanium posts inserted into an individual’s gum tissue to anchor the dentures are meant to stay rooted for a lifetime.
Any downtime following the implant supported denture procedure is generally very minimal. Over-the-counter pain medication can typically alleviate any residual discomfort from treatment. Patients may be advised to limit themselves to a soft-food diet until they grow accustomed to the feeling of their anchored dentures. Unlike traditional dentures, implant dentures do not require any additional maintenance besides routine brushing, flossing, and semi-annual dental check-ups. With good dental care, implant supported dentures can be very long-lasting and serve as a great replacement for traditional dentures.
What is the cost of Implant Dentures?
The price of implant dentures is unique to each patient. Factors that generally affect the total cost of the procedure include:
- The state of your oral health (whether preliminary treatments—such as periodontal therapy, tooth extractions, or a bone grafting procedure—are necessary)
- The number of dental implants required
- The number of teeth that need replacing
- The price of the prosthesis
Your cost estimate will also be influenced by your geographic location and the expertise of your dentist. Treatment for implant dentures is typically a more affordable option than a procedure involving restoration of a full dental arch with dental implants. Anchored dentures usually only require anywhere from two to six implants to affix an upper or lower arch prosthesis, whereas replacement of a complete arch with full dental implants would require one implant per missing tooth. Generally speaking, the price of each implant can range from $1,000 to $4,000.
While there are many variables that are considered when determining the cost of implant dentures, rest assured that our dentist will provide you with a personalized quote and full price breakdown prior to the start of any treatment. Our practice accepts virtually all major modes of payment, including cash, checks, and credit cards, as well as a number of dental insurance plans. We also work with leading dental financing companies such as CareCredit® and Citi® Health, which offer qualified applicants an array of flexible plans with low monthly installments to help suit one’s budgetary needs. Please contact our office for any additional questions you may have about the cost of implant dentures.
For more information on implant supported dentures or any other reconstructive and cosmetic dentistry procedures, please contact Aesthetic Smiles of New Jersey today. Our friendly staff and experienced doctors would love to answer all your dental questions.
