Guide to Transitioning from Dentures to Dental Implants
If you aren’t happy with your dentures and are considering dental implants, you aren’t alone. Many people with dentures become dissatisfied due to issues such as dentures slipping when they laugh, difficulty speaking clearly, having to pass on eating certain foods, or the discomfort of dentures that irritate their gums. If you’re seriously considering transitioning from dentures to dental implants, it’s important to do your homework so you understand the process, risks, and whether implants are appropriate for you. It is a commitment that can take several months to achieve and shouldn’t be made lightly.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
While dental implants are a great solution for missing teeth for most individuals, they aren’t appropriate for everyone. Implant placement is an invasive surgical procedure. If you have a bleeding disorder, certain autoimmune disorders such as Lupus, or uncontrolled diabetes, you should discuss dental implants with your physician, as they may not be right for you.
Individuals in good health with sufficient jawbone to support the implants are excellent candidates for dental implants. If you have worn dentures for years, we can build up the jawbone with bone grafting before placing implants.
What to Expect During the Transition to Dental Implants
Transitioning to dental implants takes place over several months. You will typically meet several times with Dr. Pasqual, who will place the implants in your jawbone and do any bone grafting that might be needed, and your restorative dentist, who will make the custom restorations or crowns. Dr. Pasqual and your dentist will collaborate throughout the process to ensure your dental implants are a perfect fit.
The first step is surgically placing the titanium implants in the jawbone at precise locations where they can offer optimal support for the restorations. The jawbone will fuse around the implants over the next 3-6 months. Your dentist may attach a temporary set of teeth during this time so you can eat comfortably.
When the jawbone has healed, and the implants are integrated with the surrounding bone, the temporary teeth are removed. Your dentist will attach your permanent, custom-fabricated crown or dental prosthetic to the implants, giving you permanent replacement teeth.
Tips for Successful Transitioning from Dentures to Dental Implants
The success rate of dental implants is over 95%, offering a high level of confidence. Most patients who transition from dentures to implants express that they wish they had done so sooner. However, successful transitioning depends not only on the skill of the surgeon and dentist but also on the patient’s commitment to following their post-op instructions and willingness to care properly for their implants after placement. Here are some tips to ensure your dental implants will be comfortable, functional, and attractive for decades:
- Be honest with your dentist and Dr. Pasqual about any health issues, as these can impact implant success.
- Follow your post-op instructions carefully.
- Be sure to follow proper oral hygiene throughout the process.
- Quit any unhealthy habits such as chewing on ice or pens, smoking, or using your teeth to open packages.
- Avoid tough or crunchy foods until the implant sites are fully healed.
- Do not miss any of your follow-up appointments.
- Always call Dr. Pasqual if you have any questions or concerns after implant surgery.
Transitioning from dentures to dental implants is a major step toward improving your oral health. To take control of your oral health and learn more about the process and whether it is right for you, contact Pasqual Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at Pasqual Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Office Phone Number 561-900-9080 to schedule a consultation.