If you are contemplating a change from traditional dentures to dental implants, you are about to embark on a transformative journey for your health, confidence, and overall quality of life. Many individuals begin with dentures, believing them to be the best solution available, but advances in dentistry offer alternatives that can provide even greater stability, comfort, and long-term benefits. What can you expect as you make the switch? This blog post provides helpful guidance that can prepare you for the road ahead.
Preparing for Dental Implants: The First Steps
Before you proceed with dental implant placement, you will need to attend a consultation with your care provider. They will evaluate your oral health and the current condition of your jawbone. Depending on what their examination reveals, you might need one or more preparatory procedures before you get dental implants. For example, you may require:
- Bone grafts, which can fortify and enlarge the jawbone, thereby making it suitable for implants.
- Treatment for gum disease to get rid of active oral infections.
Your dentist will also have to review your medical history and medications so they can understand any risk factors that might affect your dental implant surgery. If necessary, you might have to work with your primary care practitioner to improve your overall health before you get implants.
The Dental Implant Procedure: What You Can Expect
The process of placing dental implants involves a minor surgical procedure. It is easier than most people expect! Thanks to anesthesia and sedation, you may feel little to nothing during your surgery. After the anesthesia and sedation wear off, some temporary soreness and swelling are to be expected.
The soft tissue at your surgical sites should heal within a couple of weeks. However, healing of the bone can take several months. During this period, your bone fuses with the implants, creating a strong foundation for your new teeth.
Once your implants have adequately bonded with your bone, your dentist will design and place your new dentures.
Getting Used to Your New Smile
After your new teeth are in place, you may notice several positive changes:
- An improved ability to eat a variety of foods, including those that were off-limits with your traditional dentures.
- Greater stability and comfort compared to traditional dentures — you will no longer need to worry about embarrassing slips!
- Clearer speech and restored confidence in social interactions.
Keep in mind, though, that there is a brief adjustment period with implant dentures. For example, you might produce extra saliva for a period of time. You might also have to slow down in your speech until you get used to talking with your new prosthetic.
Are You Ready to Get Started?
Traditional dentures have their strong points, but they pale in comparison to dental implants! If you are ready to upgrade your smile, talk to a qualified care provider so they can start planning your treatment.
Meet the Practice
At Roselle Park Dental & Implants, our team is proud to provide start-to-finish dental implant treatment in a comfortable and welcoming environment. If you are dissatisfied with your traditional dentures or simply want to investigate your options for upgrading your prosthetic, we would be pleased to speak with you. Contact our friendly staff at 908-245-1745.