Some people with dentures experience significant difficulties – chewing is extremely difficult, eating is painful, dentures cause frequent abrasions, and their gums atrophy at a fast rate. For these people, dentures over implants may offer a comfortable and lasting solution.
Dental implants are basically artificial roots to which a denture is attached. They are installed by a dental surgeon who has been trained in implant procedures. A few implants will serve as anchors for your denture, providing excellent stability and making chewing, talking, and smiling easy and comfortable.
The implant process takes approximately four to six months, during which time implants are surgically placed in your mouth and a new removable denture is constructed. Most often, you will have little to no time without teeth.
With modern materials and highly skilled practitioners, the success rate of implants has steadily increased over the last 15 years to a point of predictable and comfortable outcomes. The main key to successful implant treatment is proper treatment planning and patient education.