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Of course, no one ever wants to end up in a situation where they have gaps in their smile that need to be filled. We at Sycamore Dental make every effort to avoid the damage that results in tooth loss and the need for tooth replacement. However, there are now more ways to replace teeth than ever before. It is our great pleasure at Sycamore Dental in Fort Worth, Texas, to answer your questions about one of the most appealing ways to replace many or all of the teeth in the smile: implant-supported dentures.
Well, let’s break it down. First,Ā “implants”Ā areĀ artificial tooth roots.Ā They are fabricatedĀ from strong and biocompatible materials. That means the material is designed to join with the bone in the jaw naturally.Ā TheyĀ effectively become a part of the jawbone. So,Ā each implant can thenĀ function as a tooth root to support the replacement teeth. Second, you likely already know what a denture is, as this is the type of tooth replacement made up of prosthetic teeth and gums. These dental appliances have traditionally been held in place by natural suction in the mouth or with denture adhesive.Ā So, implant-supported dentures are stabilized in the mouth by artificial tooth roots (implants), not suction and products like denture adhesive.Ā
The process of inserting implants is quite straightforward. It can be done as a relatively efficient in-office procedure. The implants are applied precisely to the jawbone as a surgical procedure through small openings or incisions made in the gums. After the implants are inserted, we wait for them to heal or grow to theĀ neighboringĀ bone. Later, the prosthetic teeth (crown, bridge, or denture as needed) are added or connected to the implant(s).Ā
Due to advancements in dentistry, we can applyĀ minimalĀ implants toĀ retainĀ maximalĀ prosthetic teeth in an upper or lower denture. As few as four to six implants may be used to retain a denture. So, we can rebuild your entire mouth with as few as eight to 12 implants. This feature helps to contain the total costs of treatment and time spent in treatment and sites or trauma to the mouth.Ā
Well, many of the common complaintsĀ with dentures stem from a poor fit. Over time, the bone in the jaw loses its strength and density as it doesn’t have stimulation from chewing and other functions. As this happens, the shape of your mouth changes, and the denture no longer conforms to the bone and tissues as it once did. The denture then doesn’t fit as well and tends to shift around, causing sores, discomfort, and embarrassing slip-ups when talking, laughing, and eating. With implant dentures, the bone continues to stay strong and dense as it is stimulated by the prosthetic teeth connected to it in the jaw. Your mouth (and face) retains its shape, and your denture continues to fit as well as the day it was received. Stability, healthy function, and an attractive appearance are maintained.Ā
Ā This feature of implant-supported dentures at the office of Sycamore DentalĀ also makes them aĀ great value.With good care, your new teeth can last a lifetime. To find out more and to schedule your consultation, call our team in Fort Worth, TX, today at (817) 438-1828.
Happy Patients, Bright Smiles