Permanent Dentures
Patients that wear dentures may have a difficult time in certain aspects of their everyday life. A number of patients feel that dentures place limitations on their social, romantic and even professional lives. Many patients also avoid eating some of their favorite foods and continue to live with a denture that is uncomfortable and holds them back. Advances in dental technology have made it possible for a patient to have a permanent denture placed which can be a life-changing treatment!
What is a permanent denture?
A permanent denture is simply a denture that cannot be taken out by the patient, often referred to as an implant supported denture or an all-on-4. A permanent denture is secured in place using dental implants and will not slip or shift when the patient is eating or speaking. A permanent denture can be full or partial, depending on the number of teeth that need to be replaced.
What are the benefits of a permanent denture?
There are quite a few advantages to having an implant supported denture instead of a removable traditional denture. One of the biggest complaints denture wearers have is the lack of comfort. Traditional dentures are held in place by adhesives and suction and can easily slip out of place or rub an irritation on the gum tissue. Part of the reason this can happen is because a traditional denture sits on top of the gums and can eventually lead to bone deterioration which will cause the denture to become ill fitting. A permanent denture has the benefit of dental implants that act as the root of a tooth which helps stimulate bone regeneration. This is one reason that an implant supported denture is actually the healthier choice!
The stability and security that comes with a permanent denture is often well worth the effort. Patients do not have trouble eating their favorite foods and do not risk an embarrassing slip when in social situations.
A permanent denture is also much more aesthetically pleasing than a traditional removable denture. Even though advances have been made and cosmetic dentistry is making strides in the aesthetics department, a permanent denture still has the upper hand in the looks department!
A permanent denture is significantly more costly than a traditional denture but the advantages that we have reviewed here might make the cost worthwhile. It is also important to keep in mind that implants can last a lifetime and even though your implant denture may need to be replaced every 20 years or so, a traditional denture will need to be replaced much more frequently. The extended lifespan of a permanent denture can make them more cost-effective in the long run.
What is the procedure for an implant supported denture?
Before any treatment is started, your dentist will examine all of your teeth and take any necessary x-rays. It is vital that your dentist has a current medical record and a list of your current medications so that they can advise you properly. Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth to make a model for the dental lab that will fabricate your denture. If your dentist determines that you might be a good candidate for dental implants, they will refer you to an implant specialist.
Your first appointment with the specialist will be another consultation and exam. They will review your x-rays with you and discuss your options before deciding what treatment path to take. They will assess your bone level and make sure your gum tissue is healthy so that your implants have the best possibility of success. In the event that you do not have enough supporting bone structure, your doctor may advise you to have a bone graft before your implants can be placed. If you do need a bone graft, this will add a couple of months healing time to your overall time frame.
Once you are ready for your implant surgery, the dentist will administer a local anesthetic before making a small incision into the gum tissue. They will then drill a hole into the jaw bone and place the dental implant. The implant site is then covered with a temporary abutment to keep it clean and protect it from infection as you heal. After your implants are placed, you will have about six months of healing time before your dentist can place your permanent denture.
After your dental implant placement surgery, there may be some discomfort. Implant placement is invasive and will require ample healing time in order for the implants to fully and properly integrate with the bone structure. Common side effects after implant placement surgery include bruising and swelling at the face and gum tissue, minor bleeding at the implant sites, and general soreness around the implant.
A few steps you can take to help relieve your discomfort include: over-the-counter pain medication, a cold compress for pain and swelling, and a warm salt water rinse to soothe the area and prevent infection. Pay attention to your symptoms and if they progress and do not begin to subside after a couple of days, you need to see your dentist right away to make sure that you do not have an infection.
While you heal, you will need to stick to a diet of soft foods for a couple of weeks until your doctor clears you to eat normal foods.
Who can have permanent dentures?
Any patient who is otherwise healthy and has the necessary bone structure to support dental implants may be a great candidate for a permanent denture. Age has nothing to do with the patient's ability to receive a permanent denture so discuss your options with your dentist so that they can help you decide what treatment path it will be best for you!