Dentures Dentist Birmingham

Implant Supported Dentures

False teeth are false teeth, right? Not exactly. There are a few options available for replacing teeth, and dentures retained with dental implants are becoming the standard of care — and for good reason.

Regular dentures can rub against the gums, and they have nothing to hold them in place — especially in the lower jaw. Because there are no teeth or implants to stimulate it, the bone shrinks, and chewing can become close to impossible.

But implant-supported dentures draw strength from the bone. They aren’t meant to rest on the gums; but instead the bone anchors them in place. This gives them added strength and prevents them from slipping. In addition, dental implants also stimulate the bone, and as a result, the bone is far less likely to resorb or shrink or create any sore spots.

The length of the implant process will depend on many factors, but usually is a minimum of five months.

Lower dentures require at least two implants to properly hold them in place for normal function, one on each side. Additional implants will provide additional stability.

Although implants are usually placed for stability of lower dentures, implants can also be placed to add to the stability of upper dentures.

Mini implants are placed in the jaw and anchored firmly in the surrounding bone. Then attachments are placed in the underside of the denture that connect to the implants. The denture is then snapped onto the implants, keeping it stable and secure.

New dentures may feel awkward or uncomfortable for the first few weeks or even months. Eating and speaking with dentures might take a little practice. A bulky or loose feeling is not uncommon while the muscles of your cheeks and tongue learn to hold your dentures in place. Excessive salivary flow, a feeling that the tongue does not have adequate room and minor irritation or soreness is also not unusual.

When handling your dentures, stand over a folded towel or basin of water. Dentures are delicate and may break if dropped.

Don’t let your dentures dry out. Place them in a denture cleanser soaking solution or in plain water when you’re not wearing them. Never use hot water, which can cause them to warp.

Brushing your dentures daily will remove food deposits and plaque, and help prevent them from becoming stained. An ultrasonic cleaner may be used to care for your dentures, but it does not replace a thorough daily brushing. Brush your gums, tongue and palate every morning with a soft-bristled brush before you insert your dentures. This stimulates circulation in your tissues and helps remove plaque.

See your dentist if your dentures break, chip, crack or become loose. Don’t be tempted to adjust them yourself as this may damage them beyond repair.