Dentures offer reliable tooth replacement, and many patients enjoy using them on a daily basis. However, it must be acknowledged that they come with some significant downsides. For example, they may slip in the mouth during eating and speaking. They are also not sturdy enough to stand up to foods like corn on the cob or tough meats. Therefore, many denture owners eventually decide to switch to implant-supported tooth replacement, which is superior in many ways to traditional dentures. If you wish to transition from dentures, this guide will let you know what to expect before, during, and after you receive dental implants.
Before You Get Dental Implants
If it has been some time since you lost your natural teeth, your dentist may determine that you need a bone graft before you can receive dental implants. The purpose of a bone graft is to increase the jawbone’s volume so it can provide a secure base for your dental implants. Some patients need other types preparatory treatment as well, such as gum disease treatment. Once your dentist determines that your mouth is ready to receive dental implants, you will undergo the implant placement surgery.
During Your Treatment Journey
After the implants are in your jawbone, you will go through a recovery period, which may last a few months. During that time, the implants will fuse with the surrounding tissue. You will need to make careful dietary choices in order to facilitate a smooth healing process. Infections and other complications are quite rare, but you should contact your dentist immediately if you notice any unusual redness, swelling, or pain around your implants.
Using Your New Teeth
In some cases, it is possible to retrofit a patient’s old denture to snap onto and off of dental implants. Most of the time, however, it is necessary to create a new restoration. You will find that adapting to your new teeth is easy! Here is a quick guide to what you can expect:
- You might produce more saliva than usual at first. This is normal because your new teeth will be a “foreign” object in your mouth.
- You will not have to be afraid that your teeth will slip around when you eat and speak, even if you are consuming relatively tough foods. However, you may want to start out with soft foods until you adapt to your restoration.
- If your restoration is permanently attached to your dental implants in Bloomfield, you will be able to care for it in the same way that you would care for natural teeth. If it is a removable overdenture, you will need to care for it similarly to how you cared for your old dentures.
Are you thinking about making the switch from dentures? The above information can prepare you for the exciting journey ahead.
Meet the Practice
We have four talented doctors on our team at Family Dental Practice of Bloomfield. Together, they are able to offer start-to-finish dental implant care, as well as traditional dentures. They do so in a comfortable and welcoming environment. To learn more about us and how we may be able to help you replace your lost teeth, contact us at 860-242-5594.