How Long Do Locator Abutments Last?
People have been using dentures to replace missing teeth for thousands of years. Historians have been able to find versions made from wolf’s teeth and ivory. As dentistry advanced, we have been able to use better materials for the dentures like wood, hardened rubber and Bakelite. We know that having one prosthetic for multiple teeth is convenient but getting dentures to fit properly and remain in place can be difficult.
Traditional dentures do not allow the jaw bones to remain strong after the permanent teeth are not there to stimulate the bone to keep their density. Every five to ten years traditional dentures need to be refitted and replaced to provide you with the best results. Having to buy new dentures that often can end up costing you a lot of money over time.
For the last 30 years not only have dentists been able to replace single missing with dental implants, but dentists have been able to use dental implants to support dentures. There are a few different styles of implant assisted and supported overdentures. Implants offer dentures a type of false tooth root to keep the dentures in place. You will be able to eat your favorite crunchy foods without worrying your dentures will slide out of place. You will be able to chat with anyone and worry if your dentures are creating a lisp while you speak. You will be able to share your smile with the world and confidently know your dentures are properly aligned.
Overdentures can be held in place with a few different types of attachment to implants and some versions allow for you to take your dentures out at home regularly while others can only be removed by the dentist. Locator abutments allow for you to remove your dentures for cleaning after meals and at night. They look like buttons where the dentures click into place so they are able to be customized to fit your mouth specifically. Once the implanted posts are healed in place, the dentist will place the abutments on top of the post so they sit above the gum line. Locator abutments are made from a plastic material so they can wear over time and may chip if they are too thin as a result of your mouth needing a tighter fit to accommodate the small size. They are easily placed and replaced when they are no longer working as they did after they were first installed.
Locator abutments have been found to last up to ten years but on average need to be replaced every three years. The dentist will be able to help you determine the best timeline for your dentures and their abutments. As long as the dental implants are secure and healthy, you will not need to have additional surgeries when you replace your abutments. The dentist should be able to quickly replace those attachments during one appointment. If you are concerned about the cost, be sure to talk to the dentist before your replacement appointment.