Implant Dentures
Implant dentures are permanent dentures that stay fixed to the gums connecting cylinder-like configurations, which are implanted through a surgical procedure. These are placed over dental implants on a metal framework for better retention so that they can't be removed. Though dentures appear like traditional prosthesis, these are usually implanted in the lower jaw, where conventional dentures can't fit properly. It does not mean that they cannot be used in the upper jaw. Since these are surgically placed inside the bone, dentures remain fixed in place and cannot move.
Types of Implant Dentures
- Bar-attached dentures - Clips attached the denture to a thin metal bar, which is fixed to dental implants in the jawbone. The bar is curved in a way that it matches the jawbone shape.
- Ball-retained dentures - Ball-and-socket design is used to attach the stud-attachment dentures to the implants, with a ball on top. Dentures have ball and sockets, which are sometimes reversed.
Implant Supported Dentures Versus Conventional Dentures
Though denture implants cost more than traditional dentures, these are more cost-effective of the two.
- Better for Eating
Implant attached dentures do not create any problems for eating. These restore eating capacity to almost half of what your normal teeth are capable of offering. On the other hand, conventional dentures are capable of providing only 20% of the eating efficiency. Nevertheless, you must avoid eating very hard and sticky foods, irrespective of the denture installed in the mouth.
- Improved Comfort
Being more secure than conventional dentures, implant dentures give a more comfortable feeling and feel just like normal teeth. Conventional dentures may cause sores, whereas those who undergo denture implants procedure have no such risk, as implant dentures do not cover the palate, retaining the normal feel of the mouth. In conventional dentures, it is extremely uncomfortable when the tongue hits a plastic sheet rather than the palate. Implant dentures are strongly held in place, thus there is no chance of discomfort caused by loose dentures.
- Confidence in Public
With implant dentures, you no longer need to feel shy in public; rather, you would feel more confident and comfortable when you laugh, talk, and eat with others because you don't have to worry about your false teeth falling out while you eat, talk, or smile.
- Appearance
Fixed full implant dentures appear just like your natural teeth. Implant dentures are placed in the bone structure, and thus they prevent gum recession and bone loss, which is often associated with conventional dentures and bridgework.
- Reliable
Fixed full implant dentures have a high success rate and are an excellent option for teeth replacement
- Feel better
Since there is no fear of slipping and sliding of implant dentures, patients experience less bulk in their mouth.
- Cost
Though fixed implant dentures cost higher than conventional dentures, these implants are cost-effective.
How Long Implant Dentures Last
Oral hygiene is necessary to prevent disease and infection around implant dentures, which might cause their failure. Dental check-up is necessary for regular maintenance of the dentures, which can last for a minimum of 20 years. General health, oral hygiene, grinding teeth, smoking are some of the factors involved in reducing the life expectancy of implants dentures.