3 Things to Know When Transitioning from Dentures

If you’ve lost all your teeth, you rely on your dentures to eat, speak, and smile. Although they’ve been used for generations to treat tooth loss, traditional dentures will always have their limitations. Thankfully, you don’t have to settle for anything less than the best. You can enjoy a nearly perfect replica of your real teeth with an implant denture. While they may look and feel natural, you can’t chow down on a juicy steak right away. Here are 3 things you should know as you begin the transition from dentures to dental implants.

1. Implant Dentures Require a Multi-Step Process

A dental implant replaces the entire structure of a tooth, including the root. When treating an entire arch, each tooth isn’t replaced individually. Instead, 4 to 10 dental implants will support your denture; however, it can take several months to rebuild your smile.

After healing from any preparatory procedures, you’ll undergo your placement surgery to insert the implant posts into your jawbone. Over the next several weeks, your bone will fuse to them through a process called osseointegration. Once your jaw has healed, you’ll have abutments attached to your posts to secure your new teeth. While it typically takes many months to stabilize a denture with dental implants, there are same-day options.

2. Your Mouth Will Be Sore

Your implant dentist will use sedation or anesthesia to keep you comfortable during your placement surgery. However, your mouth will be sore after the effects of the medications dissipate. You can take an OTC pain reliever to manage it. Stick to a soft foods diet for a couple of weeks to minimize any discomfort while allowing your mouth to heal. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your face to reduce any swelling or bruising.

3. Never Worry About Slipping and Irritation

Although you’ll have to watch what you eat for a few weeks, you’ll regain as much as 70% of your natural biting force after your mouth has healed. You’ll never have to worry about any slipping or irritation again to enjoy your favorite foods. However, your implant dentist will recommend avoiding hard or sticky foods because they will put more wear and tear on your new teeth. You should also have tough meats in moderation and cut them into small pieces to make them easier to chew.

After just a few weeks, your implant denture will feel completely natural, whether you’re laughing with friends, sharing a meal, or smiling for a family picture. You’ll invest in the lifelong stability of dental implants to enhance your quality of life.

About Dr. David M. Fisher, Jr.

Dr. Fisher has over 20 years of experience in the dental field. He earned his dental degree from the University of Northern Carolina at Chapel Hill before continuing his training in oral surgery and dental implants. He has the qualifications you can trust to treat complex dental issues, like tooth loss. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation to make the transition to implant dentures.