Permanent Dentures
Most patients who opt to wear dentures to replace their missing teeth, find that they place significant limitations on their daily living. With traditional dentures, some types of foods cannot be consumed due to the risk of causing the dentures to slip, become damaged, or break. With modern enhancements in dentistry, permanent dentures are able to resolve many of these limitations and provide patients with an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth.
Permanent dentures, which are sometimes called denture implants, are prosthetic teeth attached to the jaw bone with the use of dental implants. Contrary to traditional dentures, permanent dentures cannot be removed without the assistance of a dentist. This tooth replacement option give patients a solution which appears and functions similar to the natural teeth. Implants which are used also eliminate the risk of the dentures slipping or coming loose. Permanent dentures cannot be mistakenly lost, thrown away or misplaced. There is unfortunately no perfect solution for the replacement of missing. However, permanent dentures offer patients an excellent solution with very few challenges.
The permanent denture procedure starts with a thorough oral examination, followed by an evaluation of the jawbone. The dentist will identify specifically where to place the implants and verify the patient has adequate jawbone needed to support the implants. Once the implant is placed and the jawbone has healed, the permanent dentures are then be secured to the implants. Through the healing process, the implants actually fuse to the jawbone, which is a critical process called osseointegration.
Ideal Candidates for Permanent Dentures
Any patient with adequate bone in their jaw required to support the implants, is a candidate for permanent denture implants. It is also important for candidates to have good oral and physical health for the procedure. Denture implants are ideal for patients who are missing or have damaged one or more teeth. Patients need to continue practicing good oral hygiene following the procedure to ensure the implants heal properly and to avoid future complications.
Permanent Denture Benefits
Some records suggest that dentures have been around since 700 BC. The procedures and materials have certainly changed, however, traditional dentures are quickly becoming an outdated tooth replacement solution. Permanent dentures are a more modern solution eliminate many of the issues associated with traditional dentures. Below are some of the key advantages associated with permanent dentures:
- Allow patients to continue eating their favorite foods without restrictions
- Do not require special cleaning procedures
- Evenly distribute chewing forces
- Have a long life expectancy
- Implants offer patients an extremely secure base, comparable to that of the natural teeth
- Provide an excellent fit and are comfortable to wear
- Support the face and stimulate the jawbone, which prevents bone resorption
Permanent dentures also do not require adhesive products, which can have a bad taste. Adhesives which are used to secure the false teeth often contain zinc as an ingredient. The FDA warns that excess consumption and use of zinc may lead to nerve damage in the feet and hands.
Facial Support
With removable dentures, there can be bone loss and even change the patient’s facial structure. This can result in a sunken-in appearance and wrinkles. Permanent dentures use implants which stimulate the jaw bone and help to maintain the bone and structure of the face.
Food and Diet
Permanent dentures are quite secure. They give patients increased confidence in chewing and the ability to eat their favorite foods. When a patient has traditional dentures, they may have to make restrictions with their diet or remove the dentures when eating certain foods.
Procedure for Implants
Oral surgery is required to place dental implants. Based on the type of implant and the patient’s jawbone, there may be multiple procedures required. Local or general anesthesia may be used to ensure the patient remains comfortable.
The first step of the procedure includes extracting the damaged teeth. It is common, however, that the damaged tooth no longer in the mouth and does not need to be removed. The jawbone will then be prepared for surgery. For some patients, a bone graft is needed to ensure the implant can be properly supported.
The metal, screw-like implant will then be placed by the dentist or oral surgeon. The implant will serve as the artificial tooth’s root. Once healed, an artificial tooth will then be attached to the implant. The crown or artificial tooth gives the permanent denture a natural appearance. In most cases, the process typically takes a few months to complete.
A complete dental exam is required before dental implants can be placed. During their exam, the dentist will obtain X-rays and molds of the teeth. It is important to share your health history and discuss any medications. Any specific instructions regarding preparation for the procedure will be provided by the dental team. For cases where the dentist is using a general anesthesia for the procedure, the patient will need to arrange for transportation as they will not be able to drive. The recovery is usually quite manageable and most patients are able to return to work and regular activities within a few days. Patients should plan to rest and take it easy the day of the procedure and follow the dentist’s guidelines.
Recovery
It is common for patients to experience some discomfort following the implant procedure, however, this should be easy to manage. The most common side effects reported with implant placement often include swelling, minor bleeding, and bruising. The area which directly surrounds the implant may also have some tenderness and feel sore. To ease the discomfort, patients are encouraged to use over-the-counter pain medications and a cold compress. A salt-water rinse can also be used to help prevent infection.
Patients should monitor their symptoms and recovery. If any of the symptoms do not improve over time or get worse, the patient should follow up with their dentist immediately. Antibiotics are sometimes needed following the procedure. All instructions provided by the dentist should be closely followed after the procedure. This will typically include eating soft foods, avoiding hot food or beverages, and not performing rigorous activities while the mouth heals. Self-dissolving stitches are commonly used and do not need to be removed.