Implant Dentures Kent
Recomplete Your Smile
Among the millions of people in the U.S. who are edentulous (missing all their teeth), many of them choose to get traditional dentures. While traditional dentures are better than ever, they still have some major drawbacks. Is a better alternative available? For many patients, yes! At Complete Dental Care in Kent, our team is proud to offer implant dentures. This advanced form of tooth replacement can recomplete your smile and restore your confidence. To learn more about it or to request a consultation, contact our office today.
What Are Implant Dentures?
Dental implants are small screw-like posts that get surgically placed into the jawbone. They bond with the surrounding tissue and are thus able to serve as prosthetic tooth roots. They can support crowns, bridges, and even full dentures.
There are two main categories of implant dentures. When you visit us for a consultation, we will help you determine whether a fixed prosthetic or a removable one is best for your unique situation.
Fixed/Permanent Implant Dentures
Fixed implant dentures are sometimes referred to as hybrid prosthesis. As their name implies, they are permanently attached to the implants that support them; they can only be removed by a dental professional. Many patients are attracted to this option because they like the idea of having teeth in their mouth 24/7.
Removable Implant Dentures
A removable implant denture is easy for patients to remove on their own for daily cleaning purposes. The advantage of this option is that it requires fewer implant posts than a fixed denture, meaning that it can be ideal for patients who have lost some bone density in their jaw.
The Implant Denture Procedure
The implant denture procedure involves four main steps:
- Consultation: We verify that you are a good candidate for implant dentures and start planning your treatment.
- Implant surgery: We place the implants at their pre-planned positions during a minimally invasive surgery.
- Osseointegration: Over a period of several months, the implants bond with the surrounding bone tissue. After osseointegration has occurred, you might need a second minor surgery so we can place abutments (connector pieces) on top of your implants.
- Restoration: We design and place your beautiful new set of teeth.
Am I a Candidate for Implant Dentures?
You might be a candidate for implant dentures if:
- You have lost all or most of your teeth throughout one of your dental arches.
- Your jawbone is healthy enough to support dental implants.
- You are free of active gum disease and other conditions that might interfere with your dental implants.
If you are unsure of whether you qualify for implant dentures, visit us for a consultation. Most adults can get this procedure, either right away or after necessary preparatory care.
Benefits of Combining Dentures & Dental Implants
Implant dentures offer some remarkable benefits, including:
- Strength and stability: You can enjoy a bite force that is strong enough to handle virtually any food.
- Beauty: We design implant dentures so they look and feel as natural as possible.
- Jawbone preservation: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone and can prevent the deterioration that normally occurs after tooth extractions.
- Longevity: Implant dentures last much longer than their traditional counterparts. In fact, dental implants are designed to last a lifetime!
- Improved quality of life: The stability, functionality, and health benefits of dental implants can give you greater confidence and more enjoyment from daily activities, including eating and socializing.