If you’ve been wearing dentures for a long time, you’re probably aware of the pitfalls that accommodate them. Chewing your favorite foods is usually a hassle, forcing you to change your diet and eat softer foods. You have even had them fall out while speaking, laughing, or coughing, making you feel embarrassed in front of your friends and family. Luckily, your dentist in Hamden has a solution.
With implant-retained dentures, you don’t have to worry about your dentures falling out anymore. Keep reading to learn what they are and about your options.
What are Implant-Retained Dentures?
An implant-retained denture is a dental prosthetic that looks very similar to traditional dentures, instead they work in tandem with dental implants. Unlike typical dentures, these are designed to attach to dental implants placed inside the gums for added permanence and stability. Typically, two to five implants are needed to house an entire arch of teeth.
Implant-retained dentures can be made for both the upper or lower jaw, but it’s more commonly used for the lower jaw since the upper jaw doesn’t have as many issues with stability. Regardless, they’re typically designed to attach to implants in two different ways: through a bar or a ball.
- Bar-retained dentures use a curved metal frame that follows the shape of the jaw. It also uses metal clips attached to the denture or the bar itself.
- Ball-retained dentures contain holes meant to snap onto the implants themselves. These implants have an attachment that is ball-shaped and snaps directly into the denture.
What are the Benefits?
Unlike traditional dentures, implant-retained dentures prevent many of the pitfalls you’d find with the former. For example, implant-retained dentures:
- Do not shift or slide around
- Replace multiple teeth at once with fewer implants
- Offer the same benefits of implants without needing an entire row
- Make basic functions like chewing, speaking, and laughing much easier
- Do not rely on the jaw or gums alone to hold teeth in place
With dental implants, blood flow can continue, which allows the natural elasticity of your cheeks to be retained. This prevents the face from sagging, becoming hollow, or changing shape, unlike traditional dentures.
What are My Options for this Method?
Your dentist in Hamden offers two forms of implant-retained dentures. The one you choose will need to be determined during your dental implant consultation. Until then, take note of the differences below.
- Implant-Retained Dentures – These dentures are not designed to be removed. They are the closest device to dentures without any of the issues.
- Overdentures – These dentures are designed to be removable, leaving patients with the additional conveniences of traditional dentures. For example, cleaning them should be easier.
When you’re missing several teeth, why should you have to spend money on an entire row of implants? With this method, you have a viable solution without breaking the bank. Schedule a consultation with your dentist today!
About the Author
Dr. Ronald J. D’Andrea earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He is determined to help patients regain strong, capable teeth through dental implants. To learn more about his practice, contact him through his website.
