Implant Dentures: The Key to a Natural-looking Smile
Are traditional dentures making it challenging to enjoy your favorite meals or speak with friends without worrying about your appliance sliding out of place? At Capstone Dental, Dr. Steven Yang uses the latest technology and techniques to provide high-quality implant-retained dentures, tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs.
Our Charlotte implant dentist works closely with patients throughout the process to ensure they receive the best care. We proudly serve patients in Concord, Mount Holly, and Huntersville, NC. Discover if implant-supported dentures can help you get back to a life of confidence.
What are Implant-Retained Dentures?
Implant-retained dentures use small titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as replacement tooth roots. Once the implants have fused with the jawbone through a natural process called osseointegration, they provide a stable foundation for a permanent denture.
The denture appliance can then snap or clip onto the implants, providing a secure and stable fit that is much more similar to natural teeth than traditional dentures. Implant-supported dentures also help preserve jawbone density and improve the ability to chew and speak.
Benefits of Implant-Retained Dentures
Implant-retained dentures offer several benefits over traditional dentures, including:
- Improved stability: Implants provide a secure foundation for the denture, making it less likely to slip or move around in the mouth.
- Improved bite function: Because implant-retained dentures are more stable, they can help improve the ability to chew and speak.
- Preservation of jawbone density: Traditional dentures can cause the jawbone to shrink over time, but because implant-retained dentures mimic the bone stimulation of natural teeth, they can help preserve jawbone density.
- Increased comfort: Implant-retained dentures can be more comfortable than traditional dentures because they don’t put pressure on the gums or cause irritation.
- Improved smile appearance: Implant-retained dentures look and feel like natural teeth, which can improve self-esteem and confidence.
Who Can Benefit from Implant-Retained Dentures?
Implant-retained dentures can benefit patients missing multiple teeth who want a more stable and secure alternative to traditional dentures. We typically recommend implant dentures for patients in good overall health whose jawbone density can support the implants. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Yang to learn if you’re a suitable candidate for dental implant restorations.
The Implant-Retained Denture Process
Depending on your oral health needs, you can receive implant-retained denture appliances in as few as two visits to our Charlotte, NC, dental office.
- Initial Consultation: You’ll first attend a consultation with Dr. Yang, where he’ll determine if implant dentures are ideal for your needs. He may recommend supplemental treatments If you have insufficient jawbone density or poor gum health.
- Implant Placement: Our Charlotte implant dentist will strategically place two to six implants in your jawbone for maximum support for your denture appliance. He’ll also place temporary restorations, so you won’t be left without teeth while you recover.
- Osseointegration: You’ll need to wait three to six months for your surgical sites to heal before receiving your final restoration. During this time, your implants fuse with your jawbone through the osseointegration process.
- Denture Appliance Fitting: After osseointegration, you’ll return to our Charlotte office to receive your customized denture solutions. Dr. Yang will ensure a stable fit before snapping them into place. You’re then free to enjoy the benefits of a complete smile!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I care for implant-retained dentures?
Caring for implant dentures is as easy as caring for natural teeth. Because they’re permanent restorations, you don’t need to worry about soaking implant denture appliances each night. Simply brush and floss like natural teeth to maintain your restoration’s function and appearance.
Are implant-retained dentures suitable for everyone?
Unfortunately, implant dentures aren’t ideal for every patient. Implant posts require healthy gums and jawbone mass to ensure a sturdy foundation, and patients with deteriorated jawbones or gum disease may not be suitable candidates for dental implant restorations. Consult with your dentist to learn if implant-supported dentures are best for you.
How long do implant-retained dentures last?
The implant posts of implant-retained dentures can last a lifetime, but the denture appliance may need replacement after about 20 years due to wear and tear. You can get the most out of your dentures by practicing good at-home oral hygiene and visiting your dentist every six months for routine checkups. It’s crucial to stay on top of care and maintenance to ensure a long-lasting tooth loss solution.
Does insurance cover implant-retained dentures?
Dental insurance plans usually cover a portion of the cost of implant-retained dentures. However, the specific coverage will depend on the plan and the insurance provider. In some cases, coverage can be limited to certain types of implant restorations. It’s always best to check with your insurance provider to see what coverage is available under your plan.
Upgrade Your Smile with Implant Dentures from Capstone Dental
Say goodbye to the embarrassment and discomfort of traditional dentures and regain your confidence with implant-retained dentures from Capstone Dental. Our skilled dentist in Charlotte will take the utmost care in planning and performing your treatment and will be with you every step of the procedure.
Schedule a consultation today by calling 980-202-5696 to discover if implant dentures are the right choice for you. You can also book an appointment online by filling out our contact form, and a team member will be with you shortly.