By age 65 more than 1 in 4 Americans have 8 or fewer teeth. With tooth loss so prevalent, it’s no surprise that approximately 41 million people in the U.S. wear dentures. Dentures play a vital role in maintaining health by ensuring that people can chew well enough to receive proper nutrition. When patients opt for implant-supported dentures, they’ll reap even greater benefits. Here’s a look at the key benefits of implant-supported dentures.
How Implant-Supported Dentures Work
As their name implies, implant-supported dentures use surgically placed dental implants to securely support the prosthesis (artificial teeth and gums). Implant-supported dentures are available as fixed (implant-retained dentures,) dentures, or removable (snap-on) dentures.
Removable implant-supported dentures look similar to a traditional denture, but they may not have an artificial palate (roof of mouth). They have special attachment mechanisms that snap onto the implants in the jawbone. Removable implant-supported dentures may use as few as 2-4 dental implants precisely placed in the jaw for a secure, comfortable fit.
Permanent, or fixed implant-retained dentures use a minimum of 4-6 dental implants to attach to the prosthesis. Permanent implant-supported dentures cannot be removed by the patient.
Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures
Both permanent and removable implant-supported dentures offer cosmetic, functional, and oral health benefits.
Implant-Supported Dentures Preserve the Jawbone
Tooth loss results in the deterioration of the jawbone. Dental implants prevent additional loss of bone and can promote new bone growth.
Implant-Supported Dentures Preserve the Facial Appearance
Because dental implants stop further loss of bone, the facial appearance is preserved, preventing a sunken appearance of the mouth.
Implant-Supported Dentures Do Not Require Adhesives
Opting for implant-supported dentures means you’ll never need to deal with messy, sticky denture adhesives again.
Implant-Supported Dentures Prevent Slippage
Traditional dentures are notorious for slipping, causing embarrassment and frustration. Implants ensure that the dentures stay in place.
Implant-Supported Dentures are More Comfortable
Thanks to the implanted posts (screws), pressure when chewing is more evenly distributed, making implant-supported dentures more comfortable for most patients.
Implant-Supported Dentures Look Natural
Because implant-supported dentures connect directly to the jawbone, they function and look like natural teeth.
Implant-Supported Dentures Last Longer than Traditional Dentures
With good oral hygiene habits and regular dental care, implant-supported dentures will last for many years. By contrast, traditional dentures will need to be replaced more frequently due to ongoing bone loss in the jaw. As a result, Implant-supported dentures yield greater cost savings over the long term.
Implant-Supported Dentures Help Prevent Gum Sores
Gum sores develop in response to poorly fitting dentures which rub on the gums and soft tissues. Because implant-supported dentures are incredibly stable, you’ll reduce the risk of developing painful gum sores and oral infections.
Frequently Asked Questions about Implant Supported Dentures
Will I be conscious during dental implant surgery?
This depends on your preferences most of the time. Costello Oral Surgery Associates offers a variety of anesthesia methods, which our team will discuss with you before your surgery.
Can I use CareCredit for dental implants?
Yes. Costello Oral Surgery Associates accepts CareCredit third-party financing for all services and procedures.
Book a Dental Implant Consultation in New Jersey
Costello Oral Surgery Associates provides dental implants in Maywood, Franklin Lakes, and Wayne, NJ. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.