What are implant supported dentures?
Implant-supported dentures are an option for patients to have a smaller number of implants placed in their upper or lower jaw, and then a denture is applied on top of the implants. It's a removable choice. Most of the time, it's less expensive and makes it more affordable for a lot of patients.
How do you determine if a patient can choose to get implant supported dentures?
In order for you to choose this procedure, we obviously have to have radiographs done. A 3D scan is important for that. Then a thorough treatment plan is put together to see how many implants can be placed safely. The majority of the time, it's four to six implants that are placed in somebody's jaw.
What happens after the dental implants are placed?
Once the dental implants are placed, a temporary denture is applied on top of the implants for a period of six months for the upper arch and three months for the lower arch, where you allow the implants to fully integrate into the bone. After that, the final dentures are designed.
How do the dentures stay on the implants?
The way they stay on those implants is that there is a system of buttons, and these dentures snap on top of those implants and retain them in position.
However, the patient needs to take them out at night or after every meal to pretty much rinse their mouth and rinse the overdentures before they're snapped back in place.
What is the difference between snap-on dentures and a zirconia arch?
The difference is that snap-on dentures, as I said, are a less expensive solution. They're pretty much dentures that sit on top of those implants, but you have to take them in and out in order to keep your teeth clean.
The other option is pretty much a zirconia arch, which is milled by a computer and is fixed in place with screws on top of the implants, so the patient never has to take it out. It's more aesthetic a lot of the time, and it functions much better.
Who is a good candidate for implant supported dentures?
The candidates are chosen based on their oral hygiene, based on their needs, based on the amount of bone that they have, and the number of implants that can be placed. Once all those criteria are assessed, then the decision is made.
Also, financially, it's pretty important for patients to choose which option they consider is better.
Why are implant supported dentures a better alternative than simple dentures?
It's definitely a much better alternative than having simple dentures because, number one, the stability of those dentures is way better than just plain dentures that sit on top of the jawbone. They hold better. The patient is able to speak better, to chew better, and overall it's a much better solution for the patient.
How much do dental implants cost and does dental insurance cover them?
The implants can vary based on the manufacturer and based on the number of implants that can be placed. They vary from office to office. Some dental insurance plans might cover a portion of it. Most of them don't cover implants. That's why we offer different financing options for the patients to make it affordable and for them to be able to have the procedures done.
What should patients look for in a dentist if they are interested in implant supported dentures?
They need to look for a dental office that specializes in this type of procedure. They should have the expertise and the knowledge to be able to place the implants safely and deliver the dentures in a good, professional manner.
At Premier Smiles, you come first. Whether you need dental care or simply have questions, call us at (610) 553-3389 or email [email protected] to schedule your visit. Our team is here to help you every step of the way.