Denture Stabilization
For patients who need to have multiple teeth replaced, a traditional denture has long been the standard treatment. A traditional denture is a good option for some patients but they do have a few drawbacks that may prevent all patients from feeling that a traditional denture is the best option. A traditional denture is held in place using a denture adhesive that, for some, can have a slightly weird taste that they may prefer to avoid so they may skip the adhesive altogether, which can allow the denture to slip around in the mouth, causing friction and sores on the gum tissue.
Another disadvantage of a traditional denture is a negative impact on bone health! A traditional denture sits on top of the gums with no supporting root structure, which can eventually lead to bone deterioration and changes in the facial structure. At this point, the denture will become ill-fitting and uncomfortable for the patient to wear. The roots of our teeth help stimulate bone regeneration and can prevent deterioration of the jawbone. Without that stimulation, the bone begins to deteriorate. For this reason alone, having a stabilized denture can be very beneficial!
What is denture stabilization?
Dental implants can be used to stabilize a denture, admitting the need for a denture adhesive altogether! Implant stabilization makes the denture much more comfortable and secure for the patient and prevents slippage, making speaking and eating much easier and much more comfortable. If a denture is not secure, some may avoid eating some of their favorite foods or going to social events.
Dental implants are surgically placed directly into the jawbone and provide a stable and secure base for the denture to be screwed or snapped in place. An implant supported denture can be permanently fixed in place or removable. Even if a patient is missing their natural teeth, they may still have enough remaining bone structure to support dental implants. If they do not have sufficient bone structure, they may be able to have a bone graft placed before the implants.
A bone graft is a preparatory surgical procedure that uses either synthetic bone material or a piece of bone that is harvested from a donor cadaver or another area of the patient's mouth or hip. The piece is placed in the area being treated and allowed to heal and integrate with the remaining natural bone structure. Bone graft surgery does add a couple months of healing time to the overall healing process, but ensuring that there is enough bone structure is vital to the success of the implants.
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.
A bar-retained denture requires the use of 2 to 5 implants in your jaw bone. A curved metal bar fits over the entire arch of your jaw and attaches to each implant. The denture fits onto the bar which also has attachments to hold them in place.
Additional Benefits of Denture Stabilization
Aside from being incredibly stable and secure, implant-supported dentures are incredibly natural-looking. Since dental implants are surgically placed directly into the jawbone, the denture is either screwed or cemented onto the implants. Implant-supported dentures are permanent and can only be removed by a Dentist for maintenance and professional cleanings. The permanence of an implant-supported denture can be very appealing to patients as they no longer have to take the denture out to clean and soak it overnight! Permanent dentures are cared for just like natural teeth and adding a WaterPik to your oral care routine can make it even easier to clean the gum tissue under the denture and help stimulate blood flow to the area.
Should I get a stabilized denture?
With the time and expense that is involved in receiving a stabilized denture, patients may be tempted to either ignore missing teeth and leave the spaces that they create or opt for a traditional denture instead. It is important to replace missing teeth not only for the benefits to your oral health, but also your overall health. Leaving spaces open can lead to more severe problems and further tooth loss. Without tooth roots or dental implants to stimulate bone regeneration, the jawbone begins to deteriorate and can cause changes to your facial structure and possibly cause you to look older. Dental implants work just like tooth roots to promote bone regeneration whereas a traditional denture will replace your teeth, but will allow for bone deterioration.
With missing teeth or a traditional denture, patients may also have a much more difficult time eating and speaking which leads to poor nutrition and a loss of confidence. Even if you are only missing one tooth, that can have a negative impact on the surrounding healthy teeth. Not restoring that area can lead to bone deterioration and further tooth loss.
Dental implants and the use of an implant-supported dental prosthesis can greatly improve the quality of life for the patient. An implant-supported denture can bring back confidence and improve your overall health. Without treatment, the jawbone will only deteriorate further and cause more severe health issues in the long run. Poor nutrition alone can be a direct result of untreated missing teeth and lead to extreme weight loss or weight gain, heart issues, and other medical problems.
Even though a traditional denture is much less costly than a stabilized denture, dental implants are one of the best ways to restore your teeth and keep remaining teeth healthy and prevent bone deterioration. Implant supported dentures also last much longer than traditional dentures and may be more cost-effective in the long run.
If you have dental insurance, it may help defer some of the out-of-pocket cost and your dental office may offer financing options that will enable you to receive the treatment you need without the financial burden of paying for extensive treatment all at once.
If you are considering dentures, speak with your Dentist to determine if you are a candidate for a stabilized denture.