Millions of people in the United States are missing all their upper or lower teeth. This alarming trend is making cosmetic procedures incredibly popular for patients who are looking to replace their missing teeth. Pacific Modern Dentistry currently offers implant fixed dentures for those patients looking for a more permanent option.
Dentistry has evolved tremendously in recent years, and dentures are not what they used to be. Labs are continually working to improve the durability and comfort for patients who use dentures.
What are Implant Fixed Dentures?
Dental implants have been used for many years, but with new technology, they are more accessible to millions of people with missing teeth. Implants can be used to replace one or all missing teeth, but they can also make dentures a more permanent solution. More patients are interested in this option because it's less expensive than traditional dentures.
What to Expect with Implant Fixed Dentures
The most important consideration if you are thinking of getting Implant dentures is that there is enough bone structure to support the implant. If you do not have the height for implants, you could need other surgeries such as bone grafting or sinus lift to get ready for implant dentures.
Implant fixed denture surgery is an outpatient procedure done in our office under local anesthesia. If you have a fear of dental procedures, we will discuss the best option for you. These are the steps for implant dentures:
| • | Dental impressions: this is the initial phase to prepare you for the implant surgery and make your new dentures. |
| • | Placement of the implants: our surgeon drills several holes to place the titanium screws that will become fused with the bone and hold the crown. |
| • | Healing: this can take several weeks because the implant has to be reabsorbed in the jawbone. It is imperative to allow enough healing time for the implant surgery to be successful. |
| • | Temporary teeth: you will go home with temporary teeth while you heal from the implant surgery. |
| • | Permanent dentures: once healing is complete, the permanent dentures are attached to the connectors that will hold them in place. |
Every patient is different, and the healing time will vary greatly from one person to another. For patients who are not good candidates to receive implant dentures, we offer a removable version of the implant fixed denture.
Advantages of Implant Dentures
Implant dentures have a more natural look than traditional dentures do. You won't have to worry about the denture coming loose or moving when you eat or speak. Moreover, you won't need to use any adhesive paste to keep them in place.
For the first few days after the surgery, you will need to eat a soft diet, but most people report little discomfort from the procedure. As with any cosmetic procedure, you must maintain good oral hygiene at home to care for your new implant dentures. This includes brushing twice daily and flossing, plus your regular checkups where we will make sure your implants are working as they should.
Implant Overdentures in Seattle
Please let Pacific Modern Dentistry know if you have additional questions about Implant fixed dentures at (206)284-4505.
