Tooth loss is a major problem in the United States. In fact, close to 40 million people have no teeth at all, while just under 180 million are missing at least one tooth. There are many causes for missing teeth, the three most common are:
Whatever the reason for your tooth loss, you may be wondering what your tooth restoration options are. The good news is, Dr. Alan Jureidini and the team at Arlington Dental Excellence offer a variety of treatments, including denture implants.
Denture implants are a removable tooth restoration solution and can be full or partial. If you are a good candidate for denture implants, Dr. Jureidini will insert implants into your jawbone and denture plate will "snap" onto the rods. Some other names for denture implants include snap-in or snap-on overdentures, clip-in dentures, and implant-retained dentures.
This tooth restoration solution takes advantage of the biggest benefits of dental implants: durability and strength. If you need a full mouth restoration, the denture will most likely be mounted on 2 rods, however in some cases, the dentist decides to implant 4 rods to increase the stability of the denture. This restoration solution works well for both the upper and lower arches. You will need to take them out at night for cleaning.
If you already have dentures and are transitioning to denture implants, 2 rods should be fine. However, if you are transitioning from your natural teeth to denture implants, you may need 4.
Denture implants use a smaller number of rods than permanent implant tooth restoration options. You may even be able to use mini implants, making it more affordable. With the mini implants, a small amount of bone loss isn't a problem and you may get away without having sinus lifting or bone grafting surgeries.
However, smoking doesn't mix well with dental implants. Therefore, if you are a smoker, you must be willing to quit at least during recovery. Smoking is one of the most common reasons for implant failure and loss.
Patients who have TMJ syndrome typically prefer to keep their teeth in at night, so denture implants may not be the best solution. They need a sturdier, permanent solution. The same thing goes for those who don't want to commit to a soft food diet.
Finally, denture implants require that you have a healthy mouth and good overall oral hygiene. You will be given aftercare instructions that you must follow- but you must also have to be ready for any treatments ahead of time. If you have periodontitis (gum disease), it must be healed before the implants can be placed. Also, it's important to note that if you do have a history of gum disease, you may be more likely to get an infection with your dental implants.
Patients who have TMJ syndrome typically prefer to keep their teeth in at night, so denture implants may not be the best solution. They need a sturdier, permanent solution. The same thing goes for those who don't want to commit to a soft food diet.
Finally, denture implants require that you have a healthy mouth and good overall oral hygiene. You will be given aftercare instructions that you must follow- but you must also have to be ready for any treatments ahead of time. If you have periodontitis (gum disease), it must be healed before the implants can be placed. Also, it's important to note that if you do have a history of gum disease, you may be more likely to get an infection with your dental implants.
Before you make your decision, you should schedule your consultation with Dr. Jureidini and the staff at Arlington Dental Excellence. During the consultation, you will be able to ask any questions and bring up any concerns you have. In addition, you will be examined, and it will be determined if you are a good candidate for this tooth restoration option. The staff will also explain the advantages and disadvantages of denture implants.
You need to take time to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before you decide whether to move forward or choose another tooth restoration option.
Many patients confuse implant-supported dentures with implant-retained dentures- but at Arlington Dental Excellence, we want to help you understand the difference. Either one is a good fit for patients that need a full mouth restoration or multiple teeth replaced- but there are a few key differences:
The key features of implant-retained dentures include:
The key features of implant-supported dentures include:
If you are in or near Arlington, Virginia and need options for tooth restoration for several or all of your teeth, come visit Arlington Dental Excellence. We offer free consultations and even have night and weekend hours. We enjoy meeting new patients and would love to help you get your dental needs taken care of so you have your smile back.
At Arlington Dental Excellence, we understand that you have questions when it comes to denture implants and other tooth restoration options. Feel free to ask us anything when you come in for the consultation. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions that we've gotten.
A: Typically, you will only need 2 implants for your dentures- but in some cases, Dr. Jureidini may recommend 4. Most often, this is because it is a permanent full mouth restoration.
A: Keeping in mind your initial consultation, the potential for extractions and surgeries being required, and recovery time, it may take up to 1 year to get to the end of the process. You will have months of healing in between stages where you will have no teeth. There also may be times when temporary solutions are possible.
A: Just like your natural teeth, you need to clean your denture implants daily. Brush all surfaces with a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid infection and keep from damaging the restoration area. You will need to remove your teeth at night to avoid fungal diseases and dry mouth.
A: Honestly, it depends on your situation. Traditional dentures are cheaper up front, and the process doesn't take as long. However, they have continuing costs and require replacement from time to time. Denture implants are both durable and stable- and they are a lot more comfortable than traditional dentures. However, they cost more up front and the process takes much longer.
