Denture implants are becoming a popular alternative to traditional dentures when it comes to replacing missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, implants are a permanent fix, rather than a removable one, eliminating the gum irritation as well as the difficulties in speaking or chewing that are inherent with removable dentures. Though artificial, they resemble actual teeth, and will require the same brushing and flossing as your natural teeth. The denture implant procedure can be done as a single tooth or a group of teeth.
The implant procedure consists of a titanium screw inserted into the bone of the mouth that acts like a tooth root, with the artificial implant then screwed into place. While this may sound simplistic, keep in mind that this procedure requires planning, and the procedure itself is not a quick one. Drilling is required, and it often requires several steps to create a hole large enough for the screw to be inserted. If a damaged tooth was extracted first, more time will be added to allow for healing before the drilling even begins. The longest period, however, will be the healing time after the screw has been inserted, which can be as long as 2-6 months. Adding the implant before the bone has completely grafted to the screw can result in the implant moving. Should this happen, the procedure must start over, and the resulting healing, grafting, and eventual completion of the new implant can take as long as 18 months.
Dental implants are a popular and viable alternative to traditional dentures, and it is important to speak to your dentist or oral surgeon if you are considering having this procedure performed. Losing your teeth is not the end of the world, and denture implants may be the option you have been looking for to restore your smile along with your self confidence.