Dentures may be one of those things that nobody really like to talk about. There are countless jokes, skits, and anecdotes about dentures, making them seem like a less-than-ideal solution for missing teeth. That used to be true, but no longer. Implant-supported dentures from Dr. James LoCascio of Highland Advanced Dental care in Highland Township, MI will change how you think about dentures.

Well, There’s Your Problem

Traditional full dentures – where each denture replaces an entire arch of teeth – were made of materials that weren’t always that comfortable. Dentures rest on the gums and are usually held in place by a combination of suction and some kind of dental adhesive. The result was dentures that would slip, slide around in the mouth, and even pop out unexpectedly – and embarrassingly – at random moments. They were also famous for hurting and causing irritation to the gums.

Today’s dentures overcome all of those issues. Made from advanced materials, dentures are more comfortable and likelike than ever. But the biggest advance has come with using dental implants to firmly support the dentures in the mouth. Implant dentures look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth.

How Implant Dentures Work

Dental implants are small screws, usually made of titanium, that are inserted into the bone where teeth are missing. The bones fuses to the screws and anchors them just as firmly as natural tooth roots. In fact, implants function as replacement tooth roots, transferring the pressure of chewing to the bone which stimulates it and helps keep the bone strong and healthy.

An abutment attaches to the implant, and the restoration – a single crown, a dental bridge, or an entire arch or replacement teeth – attach to the abutment. The result are replacement teeth that are firmly held in place. They absolutely will not move, slip, or slide much less pop out.

In the case implant dentures, wearers get back over 90 percent of their original chewing power! You can eat all of your favorite foods just like you used to.

There are two implant solutions for dentures – implant-supported and implant-retained. The difference lies in how the dentures are attached to the abutments. Implant-supported dentures are secured by metal balls that snap onto the abutments so that you can remove them for cleaning. Implant-retained dentures are attached to a metal bar that attaches permanently to the implants and can only be removed by a dentist.

Is It Worth It?

Dental implants are incredibly strong and durable. With care, your implants can last for your entire lifetime. Dentures, whether full or partial, are like any other dental restoration. They wear over time, and will likely need to be replaced at some point. But with implant dentures, you’re assured of many years of comfortable laughing, smiling, and eating.

Most people can receive dental implants, but there are some important considerations. The chief consideration is the strength and thickness of the underlying bone that will anchor the implant. Only a skilled dentist can determine for sure whether implants will work for you or whether steps will need to be taken before implants can be placed.

In the Highland Township, MI area, trusted dentist James LoCascio will be happy to see you for a teeth replacement consultation. Get started by calling Highland Advanced Dental Care at 248-329-3552.