Dentures
At Classic Smiles Dentistry, we work with patients who need dentures. We offer our patients denture stabilization and fixed dentures.
Denture stabilization
At Classic Smiles Dentistry, our staff is very familiar with a procedure called denture stabilization. This method virtually eliminates many of the problems associated with complete tooth loss and wearing dentures. Stabilizing or implant-supported dentures are a type of over denture that is supported by and attached to implants. Normally, a regular denture rests on the gums, and is not supported by implants. An implant-supported denture is used when a person doesn't have any teeth in the jaw, but has enough bone in the jaw to support implants. In fact, for those patients who have lost a significant amount of bone and lip support, a removable overdenture, which fits “over” the dental implants will often be the treatment of choice. Studies have confirmed the increase in patient satisfaction resulting from this affordable treatment option because in some cases, biting and chewing capacity is significantly increased, which improves the patient’s nutritional and overall health.
Fixed dentures
Dental implants serve the same purpose as the roots of natural teeth: anchoring the replacement teeth to your jawbone. Just like natural tooth roots, they lie under the gum line and therefore are not visible in the mouth. Only the lifelike prosthetic teeth attached to them (the fixed denture) can be seen by you or anyone else. Because dental implants are made of titanium, a metal that has the unique ability to fuse with living bone, they are extremely stable and reliable. How many implants are needed? The number varies because each person has unique conditions. Depending on the volume and density of the bone in your jaw, you will need as few as four implants or as many as six for your new teeth to function as well as a set of healthy, natural teeth.
What to expect during the procedure
In most case, at Classic Smiles Dentistry, placing dental implants that support a fixed denture is a simple procedure carried out in our office under local anesthesia. After numbing the area, the appropriate number of implants will be placed in your jaw at precisely planned angles, positioned to maximize support, and avoid anatomical structures such as nerves and sinuses. Depending on how many implants are needed, the surgery can take anywhere from one to three hours. Most people who have dental implants placed find that any post-operative discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
For more information on dental implants and missing teeth replacement options, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, please contact Classic Smiles Dentistry at (770) 319-8110.
