Denture Stabilization
It is very important for patients who need to have multiple teeth replaced to feel comfortable and stable with their restoration. Patients who wear a traditional denture often struggle with stability and fit. A denture can slip and move around in the mouth which often causes patients to avoid eating some of their favorite foods. A traditional denture is much less expensive than other replacement options but dental implants are one of the best ways overall do you restore one or missing teeth. Dental implants are a great way for patients to restore one on one missing teeth and are incredibly stable and durable but can get pretty expensive, especially if you're missing most of your teeth. Since traditional dentures are a fraction of the cost, a lot of patients opt out of having implants placed.
Traditional dentures are held in place using a denture adhesive that can have a slightly weird taste which a lot of patients want to avoid so they skip the adhesive altogether which can allow the denture to slip around in their mouth. Since a traditional denture sits on top of the gums, there is no root support which can actually lead to deterioration of the jaw bone and changes in facial structure, causing the denture to become ill-fitting. Tooth roots stimulate bone regeneration and help prevent that deterioration.
If a patient does not have many natural teeth remaining, they may still have bone structure that can be used to support dental implants. In the event that they do not have enough bone structure, a bone graft can be performed prior to implant placement. A bone graft allows for synthetic bone material or a piece of bone harvested either from another part of the patient's mouth or hip, or even from a donor cadaver, to integrate with existing bone structure and give dental implants the foundation required for denture stabilization.
What is denture stabilization?
Dental implants can be used to stabilize a denture, omitting the need for denture adhesive and providing a secure way for the patient to wear their denture. Implant-supported dentures are growing in popularity because of their stability and the added benefit of being incredibly natural-looking. Dental implants are surgically placed directly into the jaw bone and the denture is screwed or cemented onto the implants. Implant-supported dentures are permanent and can only be removed by your dentist for maintenance and professional cleanings.
The permanence of an implant-supported denture can be very beneficial for patients when cleaning their denture since they no longer have to take the denture out to clean and soak it overnight. Permanent dentures are cared for just like natural teeth. Adding a WaterPik to your oral care routine can make it even easier to help clean the gum tissue under the denture and stimulate blood flow to the area.
A few other benefits of stabilizing a denture include:
- Improved nutrition due to better chewing and digestion
- Much more comfortable than traditional adhesion
- No gum irritation or mouth sores since the denture cannot slip around
- Speaking is easier
How does denture stabilization work?
There are two types of denture stabilization options available: ball-retained and bar-retained. A ball-retained denture uses metal attachments on the implants that fit into attachments on the denture. Implant attachments are usually ball shaped and the attachments on the denture are socket shaped, giving the denture a ball and socket joint.
A bar-retained denture requires the use of 2 to 5 implants in your jaw bone. A curved metal bar that fits over the entire arch of your jaw attaches to each implant. The denture then goes onto the bar which also has attachments to hold them in place on the implants.
Why should I get a stabilized denture?
It is important to your overall health to replace missing teeth. Not replacing teeth leaves spaces that can lead to other, more serious problems. Without teeth roots to stimulate bone generation, the jaw bone can begin to deteriorate and cause changes to your facial structure, possibly causing you to look older. Patients can also have a much more difficult time eating and speaking with missing teeth. Not replacing one missing tooth can have a negative effect on surrounding teeth. Without a tooth root to stimulate bone regeneration, the jawbone begins to deteriorate and can cause neighboring teeth to become loose and fall out. Losing additional teeth can be avoided simply by having your teeth restored with a dental prosthesis.
A stabilized denture can be costly but dental insurance may help defer some of the cost and your dental office may offer financing options that will enable you to receive the treatment you need without the burden of paying all at once. Implant-supported dentures last much longer than traditional dentures so in the long run, may be the more cost effective option.
Dental implants and implant-supported dental prostheses can greatly improve the quality of life for the patient. Without treatment, the bone will only deteriorate further and cause other health issues in the long run including poor nutrition can be a direct result of untreated missing teeth which of course can lead to weight loss or weight gain, heart issues, and other medical problems. An implant-supported denture can bring confidence and improve your overall health.