Implant-support dentures in Florida

What Do I Need to Know About Implant-supported Dentures?

Implant-supported dentures are dentures that receive support from dental implants. The implants are biocompatible titanium posts that your dentist surgically installs into the bones in your jaw. This makes the dentures very secure and stable, and they won't move when you're speaking or eating. Regular dentures rest on top of your gums and are only affixed by denture adhesive or paste, which can be messy and creates an insecure hold. This is why traditional dentures feel uncomfortable and are likely to slip in your mouth.

As long as you have enough healthy bone in your jaw to support at least two dental implants, you should be a candidate for partial denture implants. These dentures can be installed on both the upper and lower jaws, although they're commonly used to replace missing teeth on the lower jaw.

How Do Dentists Install Implant-supported Dentures?

Implant-retained dentures are created using a natural-looking base that matches the color of your gums and a row of prosthetic teeth, which are typically made of acrylic or porcelain. The dental implants hold the base and row of artificial teeth securely in place. There are two common types of dentures held securely by implants:

• Bar-retained dentures: This type of denture uses a single bar and clasp system that holds the denture in place.
• Ball-retained dentures: These dentures utilize a ball-shaped abutment, which connects to the sockets on the denture.

The option you receive depends on your dentist's recommendation and your specific dental needs.

Although the installation procedure may vary slightly depending on the denture you receive, most patients will visit our office two or three times to complete the procedure. During your first procedure, your dentist surgically places the implants into your jaw. You'll receive general anesthesia, so the procedure is painless. Following this surgical procedure, you'll wait up to six months for the jawbone to fuse to the implants.

Then, a second procedure is required to prep the area and expose the dental implant beneath the gum tissue. It takes about two weeks for this incision to heal. Once you're fully healed, your dentist will attach your dentures during your last appointment.

What Is the Expected Cost of Denture Implants?

Since implant-supported dentures are customized to meet the unique needs of each patient, the implant dentures cost will be different for each patient. There are several factors that determine your implant-supported dentures cost, including how many appointments you'll need, how many implants are needed to complete your restoration, the type of denture you receive, and whether you need any preparation work, such as a bone graft or tooth extraction.

Implant dentistry may not be covered by insurance, but affordable, quality implant-supported dentures are still a possibility. Please call us to learn about our payment options. Our team is here to help you achieve the smile you deserve.

What Advantages Do Implant-supported Dentures Offer?

Dental implants provide more stability and have a more natural-looking appearance in comparison to other types of dentures. When your denture is secured by dental implants, you don't have to apply messy adhesives, and dentures that move and slip in your mouth can be a thing of the past. They can also prevent the deterioration of bone in your jaw.

Do Implant-supported Dentures Require Special Care?

Proper care of your new implant-supported dentures will ensure that they look great and function well for decades. We recommend cleaning your dentures with non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. If it's difficult for you to clean the tips of your prosthetic teeth, try using a proxabrush. A floss threader can help you floss more effectively.

Why Should I Choose Implant Dentures Instead of Traditional Dentures?

A major advantage of implant-supported dentures is the ability to maintain jawbone density, which means that you can maintain the structural integrity of your jaw and face. Many of our patients also enjoy the added confidence that comes with easier chewing and speaking and never having to worry about your dentures shifting out of place.

You don't have to let tooth loss affect your self-esteem and quality of life. Contact our office today to learn how we can help you restore your smile with implant-supported dentures in St. Petersburg.