Traditional dentures have helped generations of patients to regain a measure of strength and confidence in their smiles. However, they have some big downsides, so it is no surprise that many people are upgrading from their conventional prosthetic to dental implants. Are you thinking about doing the same? This blog post outlines some things you should know as you make the transition.
Why Make the Switch?
If your dentures slip, rub, or limit your food choices, dental implants offer a more secure and natural-feeling solution. Because implants attach to your jawbone, they can give your replacement teeth a stable base and help you chew, speak, and smile with greater confidence. They can also preserve your jawbone health, enable you to eat tough and chewy foods, and last much longer than traditional dentures.
What the Treatment Process Is Like
Your transition starts with a consultation. Your dental team will review your health history, examine your gums and jaw, and use digital images to learn whether your bone can support implants. If your jawbone needs extra strength or volume, your dentist may recommend a bone graft before implant placement.
Next, small implant posts are placed in your jaw. These posts act like artificial tooth roots. After placement, your mouth will need time to heal while the implants bond with the bone. This phase can take several months.
Once your implants are ready, your dentist will attach your new dentures. Some implant dentures are permanently fixed in place, whereas others are removable. In certain cases, a traditional denture can be retrofitted to work as a removable implant denture, though a new prosthetic is necessary most of the time.
Tips for a Smooth Transition
Here are some things you can do to contribute to a smooth experience as you transition from your old dentures to your new smile:
- Follow your dentist’s instructions for rest, diet, medicine, and oral hygiene.
- Choose soft foods at first so your mouth has time to heal following your implant surgery.
- Attend all follow-up visits so your dentist can track your progress and assist you with any issues that may arise.
- Avoid tobacco because it can slow your healing process and raise the risk of implant failure.
- Tell your dentist right away if you notice pain, looseness, swelling, or any change that does not seem normal.
Are you ready to move beyond the limits of traditional dentures? Talk to your dentist to find out if you are a candidate for an implant-supported upgrade.
Meet the Practice
At New Haven Dental Group, our team offers multiple forms of tooth replacement. We can provide traditional dentures as well as start-to-finish dental implant services. If you are interested in exploring your options for rebuilding a complete and strong smile, we are ready to welcome you in for a consultation. Contact our New Haven, CT, office at 203-712-4068.