Dentures have long been a form of tooth replacement and for many people they offer a suitable option, are relatively inexpensive and offer a quick fix solution to missing teeth. However, the downside of dentures is that over time, as the shape of the jaw changes, the dentures become loose and can slip and slide about causing embarrassment for the wearer, and making it difficult to speak and eat. Consequently more denture wearers are turning to dental implants. In Richmond, at Sheen Dental, we highly recommend dental implants as a means of keeping dentures securely in place. Another thing that people may not realise is that the implants themselves serve as a form of tooth root replacement and put a halt to bone loss which occurs when a tooth is missing. Because the implants are made from titanium, a biological process takes place in which the bone in the jaw bonds with the implant to form a permanent fixture in the mouth.
Dentures which are supported by dental implants are designed slightly differently to conventional dentures which often rely on adhesive to keep them in place. One of the most noticeable differences is that implant supported dentures have precision attachments which are fitted to the denture and these snap firmly into place on the dental implant abutments.
One of the questions we’re often asked by denture wearers is whether it is necessary to have a new set of dentures, especially if they’re happy with the overall appearance of their existing set. We’d have to answer this by saying that each patient is assessed individually to see whether their current denture can be used with dental implants or whether it needs to be replaced.
It’s not always possible to adapt an existing denture and a new one denture may have to fabricated especially if the fit of the existing denture has changed considerably since the patient first started wearing it. In addition the implant dentures are often reinforced internally with mesh to make them stronger and more durable.
If you do need to get a new denture then here at Sheen Dental we welcome a patient’s input into how they would like their finished denture to look. For example if you were really pleased with the original design of your denture then we can try to replicate that or if on the other hand you thought that maybe there was room for improvement in its appearance, then we can work together to improve the aesthetics of your new denture.
If you’re interested to learn more about a dental implant in Richmond, or how implants can stabilise your dentures, then please feel free to call us and book a no-obligation dental implant consultation. We can discuss your options and answer any questions you may have. Alternatively visit our website at www.sheendental.co.uk for more information.