Missing teeth will taint your smile. You might not smile as freely as you’d wish. But besides the aesthetic issues that come with missing teeth, you will also have to deal with other functional issues. Chewing might be a nightmare; the remaining teeth might shift to the space, your jawbone might deteriorate, and so on.
The good news is that you can change your fate. Our dentist offers dentures in San Antonio, which can replace any number of teeth. Dentures have been around for a long time and are constantly evolving to give our patients the best possible outcome. That’s why there are a variety of dentures, such as permanent dentures.
Permanent dentures are also known as fixed dentures, which are fixed on dental implants instead of removable ones.
What Are the Benefits of Permanent Dentures?
Dentures are amongst the most cost-effective tooth replacement options. However, you might need to know the types of dentures to get the most out of the treatment. Permanent dentures are among the best type of dentures since they are fastened on dental implants. They are not attached to the gums using adhesives or suction.
Some of the benefits that you will reap when you go for permanent dentures are:
- The duration of the surgery is less compared to getting conventional tooth implants
- Since they are attached to dental implants, they are sturdy and snug, so you will not have to deal with removable dentures that are shifty
- They are easier to maintain since they are cleaned the same way you clean your teeth
- Since they are anchored to dental implants, they are robust and will last much longer
- You will need a minimal number of dental implants
- They help distribute the biting force evenly
- They are more comfortable since they fit better and are customized to fit your mouth
- Prevents jawbone deterioration
- Restores facial integrity
How Long Do Permanent Dentures Last?
Most dentures have a lifespan of five or more years, depending on how you care for them. However, you might enjoy permanent dentures a bit longer since they are attached to dental implants.
Permanent dentures are more durable and sturdy. Therefore, they can last a lifetime, especially if you have proper oral hygiene and care for the dentures daily.
However, our dentist in 78209 will need to check your dentures now and then. The regular dental visits will help our dentist examine them to determine if they need adjustment.
Six Steps for Getting Permanent Dentures
Getting permanent dentures is an excellent idea. It is always good to ensure that those gaps are filled to improve dental aesthetics. Plus, if the tooth function is restored, you can expect your dental health to improve.
In any case, here are the six steps for getting permanent dentures:
- Dental Examination
As mentioned earlier, there are various types of dentures. Therefore, you will need to visit our dentist’s office near you for a thorough examination. The first step will be to examine your teeth to determine the state of your oral health.
Our dentist will check any signs of tooth decay, infection, or previous dental work that can complicate the denture process. Plus, this is the right time for our dentist to determine if other teeth may need extraction before placing the dental implants.
Also, our dentist will check if your jawbone and gums are healthy enough to hold a dental implant.
- Extraction
If some teeth need to be removed, our dentist will schedule an appointment for the tooth extraction. So, you will come later to get your teeth extracted. Also, you might need time to allow your gums to heal before getting implants.
- The Impression
After your gums have healed, our dentist will take your mouth impression to ensure that you get dentures that are an exact fit. The impression could be taken using a mold, or it can be done via a digital scan.
- Implant Placement
Our dentist will then reschedule an appointment for implant placement. Our dentist will use anesthesia during your oral surgery to ensure you are comfortable. The next step will be to place the implant into your jawbone. After the implant is placed, you will need a few months to heal before receiving the abutment.
- Making the Dentures
The mold taken will be used to fabricate dentures appropriate for your mouth and bite. Dentures take a couple of weeks to fabricate according to the specifications.
- Fitting the Dentures
Once the fabrication is complete, you will come to our office for a fitting. Fitting will ensure that the dentures have no issues, giving our dentist a chance to make any necessary alterations.
If everything is okay, the dentures will be fastened to the implant, and your smile will be restored just like that.
Now you know a thing or two about the denture process. You can reach out to us at Terrell Hills Dental if you want dentures in San Antonio.