Over half of all patients who wear dentures report that the dentures significantly limit their everyday life. In addition, patients with dentures have to avoid certain types of foods which can damage the dentures or result in them slipping out of place. Dentures undoubtedly have significant challenges and limitations. Fortunately, there is a solution which resolves many of these issues. Patients who are missing one or more teeth and are unhappy with their dentures may be a good candidate for permanent dentures.
Dentures have been used for many years. They are also one of the most affordable tooth-replacement treatment options available. Traditional dentures often do not fit properly and over time can become loose or shift out of place. This can make the denture uncomfortable and even impact the patient’s ability to eat and speak clearly. Dentures also fail to stimulate the jawbone and often result in bone loss. Denture adhesives used to keep the dentures in place can be sticky, messy, and have a strong odor.
Modern dentistry has introduced various treatment options for the replacement of missing teeth. One solution is permanent dentures or implant-supported dentures, which is an excellent option for many patients.
The procedure for placing permanent dentures begins with an examination of the patient’s mouth. The dentist will then complete a scan of the patient’s jawbone to determine where the implants should be strategically placed. The dental professional will typically place two in the anterior region or front of the jawbone and two towards the back of the jawbone in order to provide adequate support. The implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and during the healing process, fuse to the bone. Once the mouth has healed, the permanent dentures are then connected to the implants.
Implant-supported dentures or permanent dentures work by using dental implants to support the prosthetic teeth. Unlike traditional dentures which must be removed nightly for cleaning, permanent dentures cannot be removed. As a result, the permanent dentures are incredibly stable and secure in the mouth. They cannot shift out of place or unexpectedly fall out. The dentist can use the permanent dentures for replacing a single missing tooth or an entire jaw.
In order to be a candidate for permanent dentures, the patient must have sufficient bone in their jaw required to support the implants. Patients should also be in good physical health in order to undergo the procedures. They are a good solution for adult patients who are missing one or more teeth. It is also imperative that patients practice good oral hygiene to aid in a quick recovery following the procedure and in order to maintain the permanent dentures.
Removable or traditional dentures have been around for hundreds of years. It is reported that they date back to as early as 700BC. While the materials used for the dentures have changed over time, they are an outdated solution with significant limitations. Permanent dentures are a great solution which helps resolve many of the challenges. Some of the key advantages associated with permanent dentures compared to traditional dentures are summarized below.
Comfort
Patients who wear dentures often say they are painful and uncomfortable. This is largely caused by the challenge in achieving a good and secure fit with traditional dentures. Permanent dentures are supported by dental implants and do not result in pain or discomfort. The implants are surgically placed in the jawbone and provide a strong, secure base for the dentures.
Adhesives
Another benefit of permanent dentures is that they do not require the use of adhesives which often contain zinc or other ingredients which can be harmful to the body. Patients who have excess levels of zinc can experience nerve damage in their feet and hands.
Jawbone Stimulation
Removable dentures fail to stimulate the jawbone. This can unfortunately lead to bone loss which can cause wrinkles, witches chin, and the change in the patient’s face. Permanent dentures help stimulate the jawbone and provide necessary support to the lips and cheeks.
Diet
Removable dentures require that patients avoid certain foods or remove their dentures to eat hard, crunchy types of food. Permanent dentures allow patients to eat the foods they love without restrictions or the need to worry about the dentures unexpectedly slipping out of place or coming loose.
Permanent dentures do require a surgical component. The procedure may vary based on the type of implant the patient is receiving and the health of their jawbone. In order to ensure the patient remains comfortable, they may receive a local or general anesthesia. The process will begin with the dentist removing damaged teeth in the mouth. The jawbone will then be prepared for surgery. If the patient lacks adequate bone structure needed to support the implant, they may first require a bone graft. The dentist will then surgically place the implant, which is a metal, screw-like post. Once the implant heals and fuses to the natural bone, the artificial teeth will then be attached to the implants. While the procedure is quite simple, it can take a few months to complete as the jawbone must heal before the artificial teeth can be attached.
Prior to receiving the dental implants, patients will need to receive a complete dental examination. The dentist will also obtain X-rays and molds of the teeth. The dentist will review the patient’s health history and discuss any medications the patient is taking which may impact the procedure. Prior to the surgery, patients will typically need to fast. While permanent dentures are an outpatient procedure, patients receiving general anesthesia should arrange for a ride home as they will not be able to drive right away. Immediately following the procedure, patients will need to rest and avoid strenuous activities.
There may be some discomfort following the placement of the implants. Patients may also experience swelling or bruising on the face and gums. There may also be some minor bleeding in the mouth. Patients should expect pain and soreness around the side of the implant. Over-the-counter pain medication and a cold compress can typically be used to manage any discomfort. A salt-water rinse can also aid in the prevention of infection. Patients who experience serious pain or swelling which does not improve over time should follow up with their dentist. In some cases, the patient may need antibiotics following the procedure. While the mouth is healing, patients should consume soft foods. It can take up to a week for the mouth to heal. Self-dissolving sutures are typically used for the procedure.
Patients who are missing one or more teeth should follow up with their dentist to determine if they may be a good candidate for permanent dentures.