maintenance and repair of implant-supported prosthesis

Dental implant-supported prostheses are a long-term solution for missing teeth. As time passes, the prosthesis may sustain damage. This damage can be caused due to forces exerted on the restoration, such as from chewing or biting.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a titanium tooth root replacement that is placed into the jawbone. The crown, bridge or denture is then secured to the dental implant(s) by the abutment. Dental implants are used to support one missing tooth, multiple missing teeth or even an entire mouth full of teeth. They can also be used to stabilize and support dentures and partials.

Dental implants are the only restorative solution that helps to preserve bone in the jaw and prevent deterioration of the facial structure.Traditional bridges and dentures can accelerate bone loss at the site of the missing tooth/teeth. Over time, this can have a significant negative effect on the appearance of the facial structure. It can also make it difficult to eat and speak normally. Implants are secure and offer the same function as natural teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods and speak clearly and confidently. Modern dental implants look incredibly natural and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!

Many patients wonder if they are good candidates for dental implants. At the dentist’s office, we can conduct a thorough evaluation and determine whether you are an ideal candidate for treatment. In general, the best candidates are healthy adults who have sufficient bone in the jaw to support an implant. If you have suffered from extensive tooth loss, you may be a better candidate for traditional dentures rather than implants. However, we can discuss all of your options in detail and help you make the best decision for your unique needs and goals.

Restorative dental treatments such as implants are sometimes covered by dental insurance plans; however, coverage is often limited. Our team is happy to work with our patients to help them maximize their insurance benefits whenever possible. We also offer flexible financing through CareCredit® to help make your dental services more affordable. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule your consultation. We look forward to meeting you and helping you have a beautiful and healthy smile that lasts a lifetime!

Source: Maintenance of dental implants

Almost all dental implant restorations can be brushed and flossed just like your natural teeth. However, you should still visit your dentist on a regular basis for check-ups and professional cleanings. These visits will help ensure your teeth and gums stay clean and healthy, as well as give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

How often should you visit your dentist after getting an implant-supported denture?

How soon you follow up after your treatment will depend on the type of restoration you received and how quickly your jawbone heals. Some patients may be able to return for follow-up care in just a few weeks, while others may need to make several additional visits before they’re ready to restore their smile with a permanent fixture. These follow-up visits may include tasks such as checking that your implants are functioning properly, removing excess tissue that has grown around the your new teeth, and polishing your dentures so that they look clean and natural. Many patients who receive a temporary or transitional restoration will need to schedule regular checkups so that they can determine whether their gum tissue is healed enough to put the final prosthetic in place. When undergoing dental implant surgery, patients have two options when it comes to the type of prosthetic they can then receive: removable or fixed. Removable prosthetics include dentures and partial crowns. Fixed restorations are fixed permanently into the mouth using dental implants that are implanted directly into the jaw. Since having a removable device requires extra care, many patients prefer to have a fixed prosthetic placed as quickly as possible. Your dentist will help you determine when you’re ready to place your final restoration based on the amount of time it takes for your jawbone to heal and the fit of your temporary device. Once you’re ready for your final integrated denture, you’ll be able to leave the dentist’s office with a beautiful and fully restored smile!