If you have ever seen pictures of George Washington’s dentures, you will appreciate just how dental technology has come. Today we have multiple options when it comes to dentures such as full or partial dentures, flippers, immediate dentures, and even overdentures. One such option for people who may not have the finances available for full dental implants are implant-supported, or snap-on dentures. These are used when a person does not have any teeth left in the lower jaw, but there is enough jawbone present to hold the implants. Usually upper dentures do not need to be supported, but the procedure can be done if necessary.
With bar-retained dentures, a metal bar is attached to a series of implants along the curve of the jaw. The denture is placed over the bar and held in place by small attachments.
In the case of ball-retained dentures, a series of studs are set into the jaw and the dentures are clipped on to them.
Once the process is complete, you will need to clean your dentures and soak them each night, and care will need to be taken to clean around the implants.
The process can be a lengthy one when compared to conventional dentures. It can take five months to fit a lower jaw for implant supported dentures. The process for the upper jaw could take up to seven months. However, if bone grafting or other procedures are needed the entire process could take as long as a year. Two surgeries, x-rays and occasionally a CT scan are parts of the process.
The best approach is to sit down with your dentist for an examination of your teeth, gums and jaws. After that you and your dentist will need to have a conversation about what you want out of your dental restoration, and which procedure will work best for you.
Dr. Austin Babcock at Sedona Dental Arts in Sedona, Arizona can help guide you through the process of restoring your lost teeth. To make an appointment, contact our office at 928-282-1514 today. We look forward to helping you attain a smile you will love.