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Are Dentures Implants Safe or Not?
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, denture implants are now quite a popular and reliable option, offering both stability and a natural appearance. However, with any surgical procedure, concerns about safety naturally arise.
So, are denture implants safe?
This is a question that countless individuals ponder as they consider their options for restoring their smiles.
Understanding the safety of denture implants is crucial, not just for peace of mind but for making an informed decision about your dental health.
What Are Denture Implants?
An implant-supported denture is a dental device designed to replace multiple teeth simultaneously. These implants are small, threaded posts that substitute for missing tooth roots, providing enhanced stability for activities like chewing, eating, and speaking.
Each post, known as an implant, integrates with the surrounding bone to form an exceptionally secure foundation. Unlike implants that support a crown, these posts feature a clip that connects to a denture, partial denture, or a metal bar holding the denture attachments. Denture implants can be used for both upper and lower dentures.
Who is a Candidate for Denture Implants?
- Patients with good oral health
- Patients with sufficient bone density to support the implants
- Non-smokers
- Patients who are in overall good health
- Patients who can commit to good oral hygiene
- Patients with realistic expectations about the procedure and recovery time
But Are Denture Implants Safe?
Yes, denture implants are generally considered safe when performed by a qualified and experienced dental professional. They have a high success rate and are a well-established procedure in modern dentistry.
However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, such as infection, implant failure, or issues related to bone loss. These risks can be minimized through proper planning, thorough consultations, and diligent post-operative care.
Patients should discuss their specific health conditions and concerns with their dentist to ensure the best possible outcome.
Denture Implants – Risks & Complications
Infection
After the surgery, there is a risk of infection at the implant site, which can occur if bacteria enter the area during or after the procedure.
Implant Failure
In some cases, the implant placed to support the denture may fail to integrate with the jawbone, leading to instability and the need for removal. This can occur due to factors like insufficient bone density, smoking, or pre-existing health conditions.
Nerve Damage
During the implant placement procedure, there is a small risk of accidental nerve damage, particularly in the lower jaw. This nerve damage can result in numbness, tingling, or pain in the affected area, which may be temporary or, in rare cases, permanent.
Sinus Issues
There is a risk of sinus infection if you require an implant placed in the upper jaw. The implant can possibly protrude into the sinus cavity, which can lead to discomfort or sinus infections.
Benefits of Denture Implants
Preservation of Jawbone
Traditional dentures tend to change your overall facial structure – there is a high risk that
your chin will gradually move closer to the nose, and your features will begin to sag when you wear traditional dentures.
Denture implants help avoid this by playing a crucial role in maintaining the height and width of the jawbone. This helps preserve a youthful and vibrant appearance, as well as overall bone and oral health. By supporting the bone structure, these implants help you look closer to your actual age.
Say Goodbye to Adhesives
Denture adhesives can be a major hassle for those who wear dentures. They’re messy, difficult to clean off both the dentures and gums, and can become expensive over time.
Imagine having a tooth replacement solution that eliminates the need for adhesives altogether! With denture implants, adhesives are unnecessary, as the dentures are securely held in place by the implant attachments.
Denture Stability
Implants provide a secure anchor for dentures, ensuring they stay firmly in place, which makes speaking and chewing in public much more comfortable.
How to Ensure a Safe Experience with Denture Implants
- Choose a Qualified Professional: Select a skilled and experienced dentist or oral surgeon who is an expert in denture implants to ensure proper placement and care.
- Undergo a Comprehensive Assessment: Have a thorough examination, including X-rays and possibly a CT scan, to evaluate bone density and the overall suitability for implants.
- Discuss Medical History: Inform your dentist about your complete medical history, including any chronic conditions, medications, or allergies that could impact the procedure.
- Follow Pre-Operative Instructions: Adhere to any pre-surgery guidelines that your dentist provides, such as dietary restrictions or medications to take or avoid.
- Understand the Procedure: Ensure you fully understand the procedure, including the steps involved, expected outcomes, and potential risks.
- Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Practice rigorous oral hygiene before and after the procedure to prevent infections and ensure the success of the implants.
- Follow Post-Operative Care Instructions: Carefully follow all post-operative care instructions, including how to clean the implant area, any prescribed medications, and guidelines for eating and drinking.
- Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Keep all scheduled follow-up appointments so that your dentist can monitor the recovery after the denture implant placement.
- Report Any Issues Immediately: Contact your dentist if you experience any unusual symptoms or complications to address problems as soon as they arise.
Conclusion
Losing teeth can affect one’s self-esteem and overall quality of life. However, replacing missing teeth can help restore one’s confidence. Denture implants provide a long-lasting solution that improves oral health and function and enhances the appearance of one’s smile.
As for the question, “Are denture implants safe?” The answer is yes. This procedure is completely safe as long as it is performed by a qualified professional who is an expert in the area.
You can schedule an appointment with Legacy Dental Care to learn more about the safety of the denture implant procedure.
Book your appointment now.
FAQs
How long do denture implants last?
With appropriate care and maintenance, the implant posts placed in your jawbone can last indefinitely. Experts recommend replacing your overdenture (the denture that fits over your implants) every 15 to 20 years.
How long does it take to recover from a denture implant procedure?
Typically, healing after denture implant placement takes between three and six months. In some cases, the healing period might be a bit longer, especially if you have also had a bone grafting procedure.
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It is the Mission of Brandon Cousins, to never stop learning and to never stop listening. Through both, patients will be provided with optimum care. Also, we smile during our happiest moments in life, yet many people feel ashamed to smile. It is my mission to give every patient I treat the ability and confidence to smile without feeling ashamed or embarrassed of what they look like.
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