Are you wanting dentures but not sure which type of dentures to opt for?
You might’ve heard of implants for dentures, but do you know about the process?
It’s crucial to have a clear understanding of what to expect throughout the procedure to manage expectations effectively.
In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the implant denture process from start to finish, as it can significantly differ from regular dentures.
The key stages of the process are:
- The initial consultation
- Scans and clinical assessment
- The implant placement procedure
- The pre-crown period
- Crown installation period
- Aftercare period
Join us as we discuss what each stage entails!
What to expect when getting denture implants
You might be excited to get started on your denture implants journey, but it’s important to understand everything that you should expect from the procedure, so you’re not going in with unrealistic expectations.
When you’re considering denture implants, be ready for a thorough process, not a quick fix like regular dentures. The implant procedure might be more intense and could cause temporary discomfort, but it’s worth it!
These implants aren’t just for looks – they make chewing and speaking easier too, and improve oral health. Plus, they’re long-lasting, often lasting a lifetime if you take good care of them. So, while it might take some time and effort, the results will give you a confidence boost and make life much easier in the long run.
It’s also worth noting that denture implants are a little pricier than your traditional denture options, if you’re on a tight budget, or are looking for a full set of new teeth, the cost of denture implants can add up! It’s worth asking your dental clinician about your options.
The initial consultation
During the initial consultation for denture implants, your dental clinician will assess your oral health and discuss your dental history. They’ll examine your gums, jawbone, and remaining teeth to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for implants.
During this consultation, the dental clinician will ask you a few questions about what concerts you’re wanting to address and about your current health status. This is your opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns you may have.
Some questions you might consider asking include:
- What are the benefits of denture implants compared to traditional dentures?
- What is involved in the implant placement procedure, and how long does it take?
- What type of anaesthesia will be used during the surgery, and what can I expect in terms of discomfort?
- How long is the recovery period, and what steps can I take to ensure a smooth recovery?
- What is the success rate of denture implants, and are there any potential risks or complications?
- How do I care for my implants after the procedure, and how often should I schedule follow-up appointments?
By asking these questions, you can gain a better understanding of the implant process and feel more confident about moving forward with treatment.
Scans and clinician assessment
After your initial consultation, the next step is a clinical assessment to determine if dental implants are suitable for you. This involves X-rays and creating models of your teeth to assess your oral health and bone structure. These assessments are important for deciding if implants are feasible and where they should be placed.
Sometimes, more detailed scans like a CBCT scan may be needed to check your bone density accurately. If there isn’t enough bone, procedures like bone grafting may be suggested to create space.
During the assessment, your dentist will explain the treatment process thoroughly, including what happens before, during, and after the procedure. They’ll also give you a breakdown of the costs and provide a treatment plan for your review. If you decide to proceed, you’ll be asked to sign the treatment plan during this step, however, if you want to take your time to decide, you can!
If any teeth need to be removed before getting implants, your dental clinician will refer you to a trusted dentist for extractions. This ensures everything is in order before the implant procedure, improving success chances and reducing complications.
The implant placement procedure
Anaesthesia
Before starting, the dental clinician or anaesthesiologist will numb the area with local anaesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable during the procedure. For those who feel more anxious or require extensive treatment, conscious sedation or general anaesthesia may be available.
Site preparation
The dental clinician will make a small incision in the gum to expose the jawbone. Sometimes, additional procedures like bone grafting are needed to ensure there’s enough bone to support the implant.
Implant placement
Using precise tools, the dental clinician will carefully insert the titanium implant fixture into the jawbone. This serves as the artificial tooth root and will eventually fuse with the bone.
Healing period
After placing the implant, the gum is stitched over it, and a temporary restoration may be added. Over the next few months, the implant integrates with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration.
Pre-crown period
While your mouth is healing between dental implant procedures, you might have gaps where teeth used to be. To fix this temporarily, there are a few options.
You can get a temporary bridge, where crowns go over the teeth next to the gap, and a fake tooth fills the space until you’re ready for the permanent one. Another choice is a flipper, a removable retainer with a temporary tooth that fits in the gap. Or, you could go for temporary crowns made of plastic to keep your smile looking good until your implants are all set. T
These temporary fixes help you keep smiling while you wait for your new teeth to settle in. Just talk to your dental clinician to decide which option is best for you.
Installation of crowns
During this step, the crowns are custom-made to match the colour and style of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result. The procedure is typically painless, thanks to the local anaesthesia used, making it comfortable for you. Each tooth usually takes about an hour to complete, depending on the complexity of the restoration and any necessary adjustments.
Post-procedure aftercare
During the aftercare stage, you will need to follow specific guidelines to ensure the success of your dental implants. This includes maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using dental floss or interdental brushes to clean around the implants.
It’s important to attend regular check-ups with your dentist so they can monitor the health of your implants and address any fitting issues promptly. Avoid chewing on hard foods or objects that could potentially damage the implants.
If you experience any discomfort, swelling, or unusual symptoms around the implant site, contact your dentist immediately for further evaluation and treatment. Following these aftercare instructions diligently will help ensure the long-term success and stability of your dental implants.
Contact us for implant retained dentures
For expert advice and personalised care regarding implant-retained dentures, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and discover how implant-retained dentures can enhance your oral health and quality of life.