Dentures have been used to replace missing teeth for several decades, and they remain a very popular restorative treatment.
While dentures offer many benefits, they’re not perfect, and many of the problems experienced by denture-wearers can be solved by a relative newcomer on the tooth replacement scene. Implant-retained dentures offer a same-day alternative to conventional implants and dentures, providing patients with spectacular smiles in no time at all.
What are same-day implants?
Same-day implants are dental implants, which can be placed and attached to a denture in a single treatment session. This kind of treatment involves using dentures that are supported by dental implants. Traditionally, when you have a denture fitted, the denture, a set of false teeth, is secured by the natural suction power exerted by the gums. With implant-retained dentures, the denture is stabilised by dental implants. Implants are an increasingly popular treatment option for patients who have missing teeth, and they offer a host of benefits. Dental implants look like small screws, and they are made from titanium. When you have implants fitted, they are placed inside tiny sockets in the jaw bone. Once they have settled, they act like substitute tooth roots, providing strong, stable support for your new denture.
What is the difference between dentures and same-day implant-retained dentures?
There are several differences between conventional dentures and same-day implant-supported dentures. The most significant is the presence of dental implants. In many cases, patients just have a denture, and this is secured by the gums or by fixative. With implant-retained dentures, implants are used to anchor the denture, providing much greater stability. The treatment time is another important difference. Usually, when you have dental implants, your dentist places the implants, having drilled openings in the jaw bone in advance. The gums are then left to heal, and the implants undertake a process called osseointegration. This involves the implant settling into the bone tissue. The process of carrying out traditional implant treatment can take several months, but with same-day implants, it’s possible to create brand new smiles in just one day. This means that you save a huge amount of time, and you can start enjoying your amazing new smile without delay.
One of the most popular same-day treatments is All-on-4. All-on-4 differs to traditional implant-retained dentures because it uses a set of four implants. In most cases, between 6 and 10 implants are required to support an entire arch of new teeth. With All-on-4, the placement of the four implants is critical, as the position is designed to maximise stability by using the densest, strongest parts of the jaw bone. Two implants are placed at the back at the mouth, with the remaining implants located at the front. The back implants sit at a 45-degree angle to provide optimum functionality. The front implants, as with traditional implants, are fitted at a 90-degree angle.
What are the benefits of same-day implants?
Same-day implants provide a solution to many of the concerns that are commonly raised by denture wearers. One of the main issues with dentures is the fit. Although dentures are custom-made for the individual patient, the contours of the mouth change constantly, and this means that the denture will only fit perfectly on a temporary basis. If dentures become loose, or they start to slide, this can cause irritation and sore spots, and it may also impact functionality. If your denture doesn’t feel stable, you may be worried about eating certain foods and the aesthetic of your smile may be compromised. Implant-retained dentures eliminate the risk of loose-fitting dentures, as they hold the denture firmly in place. Implants are like tooth roots, and they ensure a perfect fit at all times.
In addition to preventing loose dentures, same-day implants also offer the following advantages:
- Speed: traditionally, implant treatment takes several months, but with same-day systems, you don’t have to hang around to enjoy the results. In just one day, your dentist can transform your smile.
- Innovative technology: same-day implants are a shining example of cutting-edge dental innovation, and they are capable of achieving breathtaking results. In just one treatment session, patients can go from having no natural teeth to a spectacular smile. Dentists use precision placement techniques and the latest dental equipment and technology to site implants and take advantage of strong, healthy bone tissue.
- Less invasive procedure: with conventional dental implants, the procedure to place the implants is more invasive than with same-day implants. The process of fitting the implants is faster and recovery is also much quicker.
- Strong, healthy smiles: losing teeth poses a number of problems. Many people feel self-conscious about the appearance of their smile, and gaps can also contribute to oral health deterioration, problems linked to speech and poor nutrition. With same-day implants, you can enjoy all the benefits of strong, healthy natural teeth in the space of a few hours. You’ll be able to eat a wide range of foods, you should be thrilled with the look of your brand new smile, and your speech should improve once you’ve got used to your new teeth. Dental implants also enhance the bite power of the denture, which means that you don’t have to worry about your diet at all.
- Confidence: if you’re not happy with the look of your smile, your confidence may take a knock. Same-day implants will give you a smile you’ll be proud to show off, making you feel more confident in an instant.
Dentures, especially modern-day dentures, have a lot to offer, but they’re not perfect. Some people experience problems with the fit of their denture, and this can make wearing dentures unpleasant and uncomfortable. Same-day implants offer an alternative to conventional dentures that solves common issues and provides an incredible opportunity to enjoy the benefits of a radiant, functional smile after just a few hours in the dental chair. If you have missing teeth and you’re fed up loose, ill-fitting dentures, implant-retained dentures could be an ideal solution for you.
