Choose Implant-supported Dentures for a Secure Fit and Natural Appearance

If you have dentures, you may not wear them because they slip or are ill-fitting. Similarly, if you are hesitant to wear dentures because of what you have heard about them, you are not alone. Advancements in restorative dentistry are making dentures more stable and lifelike then ever before. Dr. Chris Reger offers dental implant-supported dentures at our San Antonio practice. Implants are titanium posts that permanently secure dentures to the jaw, so they fit and function like natural teeth. Contact Dr. Reger today and schedule a consultation to find out if you are a candidate for implant-retained dentures.

Receiving Your Denture: What to Expect

Dr. Reger will evaluate your x-rays, medical history, lifestyle factors, and preferences to determine whether dental implants are right for you. Your mouth needs to be healthy, as does your jawbone tissue. In some cases, patients require prerequisite treatments, such as gum disease treatment or bone grafting, before implants are an option.

The implant procedure begins with Dr. Reger developing a treatment plan, which involves determining the most precise placement for your implants. He will explain what you can expect before, during, and following your implant procedure. He will also present options for types of implants and help you decide which one will be most beneficial for you.

Implant posts are made from a biocompatible titanium alloy that is specially designed to fuse with human bone. During a brief oral surgery, Dr. Reger will surgically place your implants. Four to six implants can hold an upper or lower denture, in most cases. The posts will merge with your jawbone tissue and become totally integrated over a course of three to six months. In many cases, patients can wear their denture immediately following the implant procedure. Dr. Reger will secure small abutments at the top of the implants. Your denture will snap into place on the abutments, and it will not slip or loosen once attached. You will be able to remove the denture for cleaning or as needed, unless you opt for a fixed denture, such as with All-on-Four®.

Treatment Benefits

Lower dentures are notorious for slipping and sliding out of place. An overdenture on dental implants eliminate the potential for movement. Upper dentures with a full palate plate can inhibit the ability to taste foods and speak clearly. Implant-retained, upper overdentures may be fabricated with an open palate, so these concerns are not an issue. Implants are a good option for most denture patients, and the benefits include many aspects of improved quality of life, such as:

• Confidence from knowing your teeth will not slip or fall out in public
• Improved ability to pronounce sounds and words
• Restored ability to chew hard, sticky, or crunchy foods
• Preserved bone health, because implants deter the jaw degeneration that results from tooth loss
• Fewer dental visits and fewer maintenance requirements than traditional dentures
• Freedom from the inconvenience of denture adhesive and relinings
• Improved ability to taste flavors and enjoy foods

Restoring a full, attractive smile with implant-supported dentures could improve your life in many ways. And with proper care, implants can last a lifetime.

Schedule a Consultation Today

To find out if you are a candidate for implant-retained dentures, contact us today for your initial appointment.