Implant Dentures Burien
Regain a Strong & Complete Smile
Did you know that more than 36 million people in the U.S. are edentulous (missing all their teeth)? Many of those individuals choose to get traditional dentures to improve their chewing function and appearance. While modern dentures are better than ever before, wouldn’t it be nice if a better alternative was available? At Seahurst Park Dentistry of Burien, Dr. Thomas and our team are proud to offer implant dentures, a stronger and more reliable form of tooth replacement. Continue reading below to learn more, or contact us directly to set up a consultation.
What Are Implant Dentures?
Dental implants are prosthetic tooth roots. They look like little cylinders or screws, and they get surgically placed into the jawbone. The bone fuses with them, so they can provide an incredibly strong base of support for dentures.
Although the implant denture process is more complex than that of traditional dentures, it yields a new smile that is incredibly strong and reliable. Plus, implant dentures can last much longer than their traditional counterparts.
There are two main types of implant dentures:
Fixed/Permanent Implant Dentures
Fixed implant dentures are permanently attached to the underlying implant posts; they can only be removed by a dental professional. Patients often choose this option because they want the convenience of having teeth in their mouth 24/7. One potential downside to this option is that it requires more supporting implants, so it requires a significant amount of jawbone volume and density.
Removable Implant Dentures
If you have lost some bone density in your jaw, we might recommend that you get removable implant dentures, which usually require fewer implant posts. These prosthetics snap onto and off of small attachments on top of the implants. They are very easy to clean and maintain.
The Implant Denture Procedure
The implant denture procedure involves four main steps:
- Initial consultation: We will verify that you are a good candidate for implants and start planning your tooth replacement journey.
- Implant placement surgery: Thomas partners with some of the best specialists in the area for this complex procedure.
- Osseointegration: The implants will bond with your bone over a few months. Then, you may undergo a second procedure so abutments (connector pieces) can be attached to them.
- Restoration: Thomas and our team will design and place your beautiful new teeth.
Am I a Candidate for Implant Dentures?
You might be a suitable candidate for implant dentures if:
- You have lost all or most of your teeth throughout one of your dental arches.
- Your jawbone is healthy enough to support dental implants.
- You are free of active gum disease.
- You are healthy enough to undergo minor surgery.
- You have good habits that will support your implants’ long-term success.
Even if you are not a candidate for implant dentures right away, you may become one after some preliminary care. Most adults with missing teeth can qualify for this procedure!
Benefits of Combining Dentures & Dental Implants
Implant dentures offer some pretty amazing benefits:
- Improved stability: Implant dentures do not slip and slide around in the mouth.
- Enhanced comfort: You can enjoy a more natural feel in your mouth compared to traditional removable dentures.
- Better chewing efficiency: Implant dentures provide an impressive bite force, so you can feel free to enjoy a wide variety of nutritious foods.
- Preservation of jawbone: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone and can prevent the deterioration that normally occurs after tooth extractions.
- Natural appearance: Implant dentures are designed to look and feel as natural as possible.
- Easy maintenance: In many ways, taking good care of implant dentures is similar to caring for natural teeth.
