Implant Dentures – Jonesboro, AR
Reclaim Your Lifestyle with Implant Dentures
If you have lost all or most of your teeth, you may be all too familiar with the challenges that accompany an incomplete smile. Difficulty eating, decreased self-confidence, and sore gums are just some of the potential consequences of extensive tooth loss. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers a number of effective tooth replacement solutions, including implant dentures in Jonesboro. Dr. Yarnell would be happy to help you take advantage of this potentially life-changing treatment.
What are Implant Dentures?
A traditional denture sits on top of the gums. Natural suction or a mild adhesive helps it to stay in place. An implant denture, on the other hand, is anchored in the jawbone by a number of strategically placed prosthetic tooth roots (dental implants). The dental implants bond with the surrounding tissue so they are able to provide the sturdiest base possible for the teeth on top of them.
Fixed/Permanent Implant Dentures
An implant denture may be permanently attached to the implants that support it. However, this means you’ll need to have more dedicated jawbone tissue available for the implants to fuse with. In most cases, anywhere between four and six implants are placed throughout the jaw to keep the implant denture in place. Additionally, only a dentist will be able to safely remove your restoration.
Removable Implant Dentures
It is also possible for Dr. Yarnell to design a removable overdenture that simply “snaps” onto and off of attachments on the implants. Because of the removable nature of your restoration, fewer dental implants are needed to hold it in place (usually between two and five). This makes a removable implant denture ideal if you have less available bone tissue to utilize. Furthermore, you can more easily clean the denture since it can be taken out at home.
The Implant Denture Procedure
Here is a general overview of steps that are commonly part of the implant dentures procedure:
- Yarnell will determine your candidacy for implants and begin planning your treatment.
- During a minimally invasive surgery, the implants will be inserted into your jawbone.
- Next, we’ll place an abutment. Abutments are small connector pieces that attach dental implants to the prosthetic teeth they support. In most cases, abutments are placed a few months after the initial implant surgery.
- Yarnell will design a beautiful, natural-looking, and highly functional implant denture, then have it created at an offsite dental lab. When you come back to our office, we’ll attach the denture and make any adjustments as needed.
Am I a Candidate for Implant Dentures?
In general, candidates for implant dentures:
- Have lost all or most of their teeth
- Have adequate bone density and bone volume to support dental implants
- Are free of active gum disease
- Have excellent oral hygiene habits
- Are taking steps to manage any systemic health conditions that could affect their body’s ability to heal after implant placement surgery
An implant dentist is the best person to determine whether implant dentures are right for you. Most people do qualify for the treatment, although some individuals require some preparatory procedures (such as gum disease therapy) before their mouth is ready to receive implants.
Benefits of Combining Dentures & Dental Implants
Combining dentures and dental implants in Jonesboro offers some significant benefits:
- Implant dentures are very sturdy and do not slip around like their traditional counterparts
- You will be able to enjoy a wide variety of foods, including raw fruits and vegetables
- Because the implants help to preserve the jawbone, they can help your face retain its natural shape
- Implants may last a lifetime, and implant prosthetics may endure for well over a decade
- In many ways, caring for dental implants and their restorations is similar to caring for natural teeth