How it Works
Implants are tiny titanium screw posts that are installed permanently into your mouth and act as real tooth roots. The implants will act as an anchor and will be placed in your jawbone, underneath the gums so they will not be visible in your mouth. Titanium actually has the ability to fuse to your bone and become a permanent part of your jawbone and preserves bone density.
Having your dentures secured by implants will allow them to stay in place while you are eating or talking. The implants will also help relieve pressure on your gums, so your dentures are comfortable and do not cause any damage to your gums.
In most cases, your dentures will be able to be supported by six implants: two on the bottom and four on the top. It might be possible to modify your current dentures to work with implants, but if it isn’t possible you can get a new set made that will work.
What to Expect
Getting dental implants installed is a very simple procedure. In most cases, they can be installed in your dentist’s office with just some local anesthesia. When the dentist numbs the area where the implants will be installed, they will get to work installing them. The placement of the implants will be predetermined to maximize the support given. In addition to implant supported dentures, we can place single-tooth implants, implant-supported bridges, and implant-retained dentures.
Dental implant procedures can take anywhere from one to three hours and doesn’t normally leave you in a lot of pain. If you are experiencing pain, you should be able to manage it with over-the-counter medication.
Your mouth will need to heal completely before you are able to connect your dentures to them. The healing process usually takes about six weeks but is different for everybody. During your healing process, you will be given a temporary set of dentures that won’t put any strain on the implants at all.
When your healing process is complete, the implants will be completely fused to your jawbone. Your dentist will then show you how to properly hook your new dentures onto the implants and how to properly take them back off again. You will be able to use your new set of dentures confidently and know that your teeth will stay in place the entire time you are talking, eating, and most importantly, smiling.
If you currently have dentures and you are tired of them slipping out of place at the worst times, dental implants might be a great solution for you. Call River Run Dentistry at 830-387-3040 to set up a consultation to discuss your options and determine if you will be a good fit.
