Implant Dentures Vero Beach
A Fresh Start for Your Smile
Millions of individuals are edentulous (missing all their teeth). Many of them choose to get traditional dentures. While dentures have their advantages, have you ever wondered if a more reliable option is available? It Is! Our Vero Beach team is proud to offer implant dentures, a stronger and longer-lasting solution for extensive tooth loss. If you are ready to find a fresh start for your smile, reach out to our team to request a consultation.
What Are Implant Dentures?
Dental implants are small titanium posts that we surgically place into the jawbone. They fuse with the surrounding tissue and are able to serve as prosthetic tooth roots. With a few strategically placed implants, we can support a full denture.
There are two main categories of implant dentures. During your consultation, we will advise you on which one would be a better fit for your unique circumstances.
Fixed/Permanent Implant Dentures
A fixed implant denture is permanently attached to the underlying dental implants; it can only be removed by a dental professional. Lots of patients gravitate toward this option because they like the convenience of having their teeth in their mouth 24/7. However, fixed implant dentures do generally require more implant posts — and greater jawbone density — than removable options.
Removable Implant Dentures
A removable implant denture, sometimes called a “Snap-On Denture,” is attached to its implants via ball- or bar-shaped attachments. As few as 2 – 5 implants can be used to support it. This type of prosthetic should be removed daily for oral hygiene purposes.
The Implant Denture Procedure
The implant denture procedure involves four main steps:
- Consultation: During your initial visit, we will evaluate your oral health, review your dental and medical history, and discuss your goals. This helps us determine if implant dentures are right for you and allows us to customize your treatment plan.
- Dental Implant Surgery: We will surgically place the dental implants into your jawbone at carefully chosen locations. The procedure is performed with your comfort in mind and is typically completed in a single appointment.
- Osseointegration: Over the next several months, your implants will fuse with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This creates a strong and stable foundation for your denture.
- Restoration: We will attach your custom-made denture to the implants, restoring both the look and function of your smile.
Am I a Candidate for Implant Dentures?
Most adults with extensive tooth loss can get implant dentures! During your consultation, we will verify that you meet some basic criteria. For example, you should:
- Have Sufficient Bone Health: Your jawbone should be strong enough and large enough to support dental implants.
- Be Healthy Enough to Undergo Minor Oral Surgery: You should be free of active gum disease and other health conditions that might negatively affect your treatment’s outcome.
- Keep Up with Good Habits: A commitment to oral hygiene and other healthy habits will significantly reduce the risk of dental implant failure.
Even if you are not sure whether you qualify for implant dentures, visit us. Even if you need some preliminary care first, the chances are good that you will eventually be able to move forward with treatment.
Benefits of Combining Dentures & Dental Implants
Some of the most noteworthy benefits of implant dentures include:
- Enhanced Stability: Implant dentures are anchored securely in your mouth, which eliminates slippage and provides greater confidence when you eat and speak.
- Improved Comfort: You will experience less irritation and discomfort compared to traditional dentures.
- Preservation of Jawbone: Implants stimulate the jawbone, helping prevent bone loss and maintain your facial structure over time.
- Natural Appearance: Implant dentures restore the look of your smile, blending seamlessly with your facial features.
- Long-Term Solution: With proper care, implant dentures can last for many years.
- Easy Maintenance: Implant dentures are easy to clean and maintain, so you can look forward to a straightforward oral hygiene routine.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: You can enjoy improved speech, the ability to eat almost any food, and renewed self-esteem.
Implant Dentures FAQs
How Many Implant Posts Will I Need to Support My Dentures?
That depends on your unique situation. Generally, our Vero Beach team strives to find the optimum balance between conservative care (using as few implant posts as possible) and optimizing the stability of your dentures.
In some cases, as few as two implants can be used to stabilize a removable denture. However, it is often best to use more in order to make the prosthetic as strong and reliable as possible.
We will design your treatment plan based on your unique circumstances, medical history, and personal preferences.
How Much Do Implant Dentures Cost?
The cost of implant dentures depends on a number of factors, such as the need for preliminary care, the materials used, the number of implants needed, and more. During your consultation, we can provide a cost estimate and help you understand payment options.
Please note that implant dentures are an investment. Although their upfront cost might seem high, they are actually a wonderful long-term value. They can last for many years and may reduce overall medical costs by supporting both your oral and systemic wellness.
How Should I Take Care of My Implant Dentures?
If you have a removable implant denture, you should take it out of your mouth each day so you can thoroughly clean all its surfaces with a non-abrasive cleaner. You also need to clean the area around your implant abutments.
If your denture is fixed in place, you should brush it with non-abrasive toothpaste at least twice a day. You can also use a water flosser or small interdental brush to clean beneath your restoration.
Our team can coach you on the specifics of how to care for your implant denture after you receive it.
How Long Does It Take to Get Implant Dentures?
The timeline for getting implant dentures depends on your unique treatment plan. Often, the process takes at least a few months, with some cases stretching out over a year or longer (particularly if extensive preliminary care is necessary). We will work as efficiently as possible without doing anything that could compromise your results.
Although implant dentures represent a significant investment of time, the benefits they provide make them well worth the wait!
Are There Any Risks or Downsides to Getting Implant Dentures?
The benefits of implant dentures far outweigh their risks and downsides. However, just like any other procedure, there are a few potential cons to keep in mind. For example, there is a small risk of infection after the implant surgery. Also, a small percentage of patients experience failed osseointegration (failure of the implants to bond with the jawbone) or other complications.
If you have concerns about such issues, our team can answer your questions in a straightforward manner during your consultation. We want you to have a realistic view of this treatment so you can make well-informed decisions.