Problems With Loose-Fitting Dentures?
If you’re struggling with loose-fitting dentures, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans wear dentures to replace all the teeth in one or both arches. But dentures have a lot of drawbacks that make them unpleasant to wear.
Dentures can be painful because they rest on top of the gums, often causing sores and irritation. Over time, dentures become loose, making eating and talking more difficult. For many patients, dentures cause embarrassment by slipping out of place when you’re with friends.
At Watkins Dental Group, we have an innovative way to eliminate all these issues. We use dental implants to transform your current dentures into overdentures. This process is called stabilization, and it allows you to eat your favorite foods in comfort. You’ll also feel a lot more confident in social situations.
The Benefits of Overdentures
Overdentures are a highly effective long-term solution for your smile. The benefits include:
- Enhanced chewing power
- Improved diet and health
- Speak with greater clarity
- They won’t hurt your gums
- No more hassles with messy adhesives
- We can use your existing dentures
- Feel confident about your smile again
The Stabilization Process
Dr. Watkins will insert two to five titanium implants into your jaw to stabilize your dentures. This procedure generally takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete, depending on the number of implants we use and where we decide to place them.
As you recover from implant surgery, the bones in your jaw will fuse with the implants, forming a secure bond. You’ll still be able to wear your dentures during this time.
The implants feature integrated ball-tops, which provide outstanding stability. This also allows you to remove your dentures for easy maintenance and cleaning. The whole process, including construction, placement, and healing, takes anywhere from three to nine months to complete.
The length of the process depends on your individual treatment plan. Dr. Watkins can provide a more accurate estimate of your overall treatment time during your free consultation.
Caring for Your Overdentures
Daily cleaning consists of removing your dentures at night and brushing around your implants to remove any food and plaque. This will also stimulate blood flow in the surrounding gum tissue.
Following your dentist’s post-operative instructions and maintaining good dental hygiene are important factors in ensuring the long-term success of your overdentures.
Frequently Asked Implant Questions
Is the implant placement painful?
No, it’s usually performed under local anesthesia.
How much pain will I feel after implant placement?
You should only feel some minor discomfort, but Dr. Watkins can prescribe medication to alleviate any pain you may be feeling.
What can I eat after having an implant placed?
Dr. Watkins will outline a diet for the next few days, including some soft foods so the implant site will not be irritated.
How do I care for my implant?
Home care for dental implants simply requires regular brushing and flossing, just like natural teeth. Regular dental visits are vital to long-term health and success.
How long does an implant last?
Implants have been known to last for more than 40 years with proper care. If you practice regular oral hygiene and visit Dr. Watkins for regular checkups, your implants should last a long time.
Are implants covered by insurance?
Dental implants are an elective procedure, so they are not covered by most dental insurance plans. Dr. Watkins offers a broad range of payment and financing options to help make your dream smile become a reality.
Bring Back Your Smile With Stabilized Dentures
The benefits of eating what you want, smiling with confidence, and the freedom that stable dentures can bring can’t be measured. Don’t let unsecured dentures hamper your lifestyle.
Contact Dr. Watkins today at (570) 675-1138 to schedule your free consultation. We’ll be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have about our dental implant procedures.