Step-by-Step Process of Getting Implant Dentures

Learn how this advanced dental treatment can restore your smile and confidence. Read our blog for insights into the procedure, benefits, and aftercare for long-lasting results.

Implant dentures are a highly effective and long-lasting solution for individuals who have lost multiple teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, which sit on top of the gums, implant dentures are anchored to the jawbone with dental implants, providing a more secure and natural-feeling fit. Getting implant dentures in palmdale involves multiple stages, and understanding these steps can help you feel confident and prepared as you embark on your journey to a restored smile.

1. Consultation and Initial Examination

The first step in getting implant dentures is scheduling a consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon. During this visit, your dental professional will perform a comprehensive examination of your mouth, including X-rays and possibly a 3D scan, to assess the condition of your gums, jawbone, and remaining teeth. This helps them determine if you are a good candidate for implant dentures. They will also discuss your medical history to ensure no contraindications for the procedure.

If your jawbone is too thin or weak to support dental implants, your dentist may recommend a bone graft procedure to rebuild the bone structure before proceeding with the implants. Once your dentist has assessed your oral health, they will discuss your treatment options, explain the procedure, and answer any questions you may have.

2. Implant Placement Surgery

The next step involves the placement of the dental implants. Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically inserted into your jawbone to serve as the roots for your future dentures. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the process.

Your dentist will make small incisions in the gum tissue to expose the jawbone, then carefully place the implants into the bone. Depending on the number of implants required and the case's complexity, the procedure can take anywhere from one to a few hours. In some cases, temporary dentures may be provided to wear while your implants heal.

3. Healing and Osseointegration

After the implants are placed, there is a healing period where the implants fuse with the bone in an osseointegration process. This can take anywhere from three to six months, depending on the individual and the quality of the bone. It’s important to follow your dentist's aftercare instructions during this time to avoid complications and ensure proper healing.

While the implants heal, you may be asked to wear temporary dentures, which will help maintain the appearance of your smile. Taking care of these temporary dentures is essential to ensure that your gums remain healthy and comfortable during the healing phase.

4. Abutment Placement

Once the implants have successfully fused with the jawbone, you will return to your dentist for the next phase of the process – abutment placement. The abutments are small connectors that attach to the top of the implants and serve as the foundation for the denture. During this procedure, your dentist will make small incisions to expose the implants and place the abutments in the gum tissue. Local anesthesia is used to ensure your comfort.

After the abutments are placed, your gums must heal for a few weeks. This healing period allows the gum tissue to settle around the abutments and create a secure foundation for the dentures.

5. Creating and Fitting the Dentures

Once the abutments have fully healed, the next step is to create custom dentures that will attach to the implants. Impressions of your mouth will be taken to ensure that the dentures fit perfectly and comfortably. Your dentist will work with a dental lab to create dentures matching your natural teeth' shape, color, and size.

Once the dentures are ready, you will return to your dentist for a fitting. The dentist will check the dentures' fit, comfort, and appearance, making adjustments as necessary. The dentures will be securely attached to the abutments, revealing your new smile!

6. Follow-up Appointments and Maintenance

After implant dentures, follow-up appointments are crucial to ensure everything functions properly. Your dentist in palmdale will monitor the health of your gums and implants, checking for any signs of discomfort or complications. Regular dental visits are essential to keep your implants and dentures in optimal condition.

In addition to regular check-ups, daily care is essential. Brush and floss your implant dentures like natural teeth to prevent plaque buildup and maintain oral hygiene. Your dentist may also recommend unique cleaning solutions or tools to help care for your implants and dentures properly.

Conclusion

Getting implant dentures is a multi-step process that requires time, patience, and attention to detail. However, the result is a durable, secure, and natural-looking solution that restores your smile and improves your quality of life. Following your dentist’s instructions throughout each phase and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can enjoy the benefits of implant dentures for many years. If you’re considering implant dentures, schedule a consultation with your dentist to discuss your options and begin your journey to a restored smile.