Optimal Stability with Implant-Supported Dentures

When you are missing most or all of your teeth, it can have a negative impact on the health, function, and aesthetic of your smile. That is why replacing missing teeth is always recommended. Today, dental implants are widely regarded as the most reliable and successful tooth replacement option available. Implant-supported dentures offer greater stability and jawbone health benefits compared to traditional dentures. At our Little Rock, AR, dental practice, Dr. Steven Ray offers flexible payment plans through CareCredit® financing to help you afford this treatment.

Traditional vs. Implant-Supported Dentures

Dentures can replace the majority of your teeth on the upper arch, lower arch, or both. However, while traditional dentures rely on the gum tissue and bone ridge for support, implant-supported prostheses are anchored to dental implants embedded firmly into the jawbone.

Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures

Compared to their conventional counterparts, implant-supported dentures offer a wide range of advantages. Some of the most notable benefits include:

• Enhanced function: One of the most common complaints among longtime denture wearers is that their appliances slip and shift around when eating or speaking. However, because implant-supported dentures are connected to dental implants, they stay put. Therefore, patients can eat their favorite foods without worry and speak with total confidence.
• Optimal oral health: Dental implants are the only restorative option that replaces missing teeth roots. Once placed within the jaw, the implants send regenerative signals to the body, preserving existing bone and reducing the risk of future bone deterioration.
• Improved fit: Because traditional dentures do not replace tooth roots, their fit changes over time as the jawbone deteriorates. Implant-supported dentures stabilize the bone and hold your denture firmly in place for an optimal fit.
• Natural-looking results: Implant-supported restorations look and feel incredibly lifelike. Because modern dental materials are faintly translucent, they reflect light in the same way that natural teeth do.

Exploring Candidacy for Implant-Supported Dentures

To be eligible for implant-supported restorations, patients must be in good oral health and free from periodontal disease or decay. In addition, they should not have any medical condition that could make oral surgery a risk, such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune diseases.

Compared to their conventional counterparts, implant-supported dentures offer a wide range of advantages.

Patients considering dental implants should also have adequate bone structure and density. However, even if you have suffered substantial bone loss, a bone grafting procedure can help increase your eligibility for an implant-supported denture.

Receiving Implant-Supported Dentures

Specific treatment can vary for each patient considering implant-supported dentures. For example, some individuals may need to undergo preparatory extractions, bone grafts, or periodontal therapy before having their implants placed. In most cases, though, treatment is broken down into several parts:

• Dental implant placement: During the first step, Dr. Ray will surgically place the dental implants into the jawbone.
• Healing period: Once the implants have been placed, they will need to heal for a few months before the denture can be attached. During a process called osseointegration, the natural bone tissue fuses with the implant posts, creating a stable base for your prosthesis. In the meantime, patients can wear a temporary denture to protect their implants.
• Placement of abutments: After full integration has occurred, Dr. Ray will attach small connector posts called abutments to the dental implants. These will extend slightly beyond the gum line so your denture can be connected.
• Placement of final denture: Once the abutments are secure, Dr. Ray will attach your new denture to the abutments. Though you will be able to remove your denture for easy maintenance, it will stay firmly in place otherwise.

Flexible Financing Options

At Ray Dental, we believe that quality dental care should be accessible to everyone. That is why we offer flexible financing through CareCredit®. This option allows patients to make low monthly payments while achieving the healthy, beautiful smile they desire.

Schedule a Visit at Ray Dental

Are you tired of dentures that wobble and slip? If so, implant-supported dentures can dramatically enhance your quality of life. To learn more, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ray by contacting us online or calling us at (501) 312-1127.