What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?

If you’re missing several teeth, your dentist may suggest a type of dental prosthetic called “implant-supported dentures.” This type of denture can replace entire arches of teeth but has many advantages over traditional dentures.

Yourdentist in Chardon, OH, could tell you what you need to know about implant-supported dentures and how they could make a difference in your life. At Center Street Dental, we happily answer questions about these dental tools.

What are implant-supported dentures?

Implant-supported dentures are dentures that are attached to implant posts that have been inserted into the jaw. Each arch is attached to multiple implants for stability and security. Implant-supported dentures look like real teeth and can help you restore your smile if you’ve lost many teeth.

Who is a good candidate for implant-supported dentures? 

You’re a good candidate for implant-supported dentures if you have a healthy jaw bone. Anyone who wants implants must have sufficient jaw bone, or the implantation will not be successful. People who have been impacted by gum disease and gum recession can lose jawbone over time, so your dentist will need to determine whether you’re a good candidate for implants by examining your jaw and taking x-rays.

People who do not have sufficient jaw bone for implant-supported dentures may need bone grafting. This dental procedure can be performed to add to the volume and density of your jaw bone.

Are implant-supported dentures better than standard dentures?

Implant-supported dentures significantly benefit over traditional dentures: they cannot slip. Traditional dentures can slip when you’re eating certain foods. In fact, traditional dentures may even slip at other times, including when you’re talking.

For some people, this can be unpleasant and can cause pain or discomfort if food becomes lodged between your dentures and the roof of your mouth. As your traditional dentures get older, they may slip more often. Implant-supported dentures will never slip because they’re firmly attached to your implants.

If you’re interested inimplant-supported dentures in Chardon, OH, the professionals at Center Street Dental are here to help. Make an appointment today to learn more about the options.

5 Myths About Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the most popular treatments for missing teeth. They’re permanent, realistic-looking, and highly durable. In fact, there are a few reasons not to get dental implants, assuming you are a good candidate for them. Yet, there are still several prevailing myths about dental implants that simply aren’t true.

1. People Will Know

When you’ve lost a tooth, there’s a great deal of embarrassment that often accompanies the experience. It’s natural to be worried that people will be able to tell you to have a dental implant, especially since dentures can be so obvious. However, dental implants look extremely realistic. Even up close, it will be hard or impossible for people to tell you have them.

2. It’s a Quick Solution

Many people assume that it only takes about a day to get dental implants. While the implant part can be done in a day, the rest of the procedure for dental implants takes longer. Depending upon the circumstances, it can take several months to complete the entire treatment. Your dentist in Chardon, OH, will be able to give you a better idea of the timeline in your particular case.

3. It’s Painful

The procedure for dental implants involves surgery. But, like other surgeries, the patient is under anesthesia. The anesthesia protects the patient from feeling the pain or being aware of what’s being done. Upon waking after the implant procedure, you might have some lingering discomfort, which can be treated with over-the-counter medication. If a patient has discomfort that isn’t relieved with common pain medication, then a prescription may be available from your dentist.

4. Dental Implants Don’t Last

There are no guarantees of how long dental implants will last. However, when you have a good dentist and oral hygiene is maintained, you can expect your dental implants to last for decades or even a lifetime.

5. Implants Are Only For the Young

Age isn’t a factor when determining if you’re a good candidate for dental implants in Chardon, OH. More important is the density of the bone, the health of the gum tissue, and the underlying health of the patient.

If you have missing teeth and are thinking about dental implants, get in touch with Center Street Dental. Book your appointment today.

What Can Dental Implants Do for Me?

Dental implants fill the spaces left behind by missing or extracted teeth, which essentially repairs your smile. But even better, they restore function, making it much easier to bite, tear, and chew your favorite foods. They help ensure you don’t suffer from bone loss, too, and may make speaking more clearly easier. If you’re intrigued by the idea of dental implants, talk with your dentist in Chardon, OH, to see if they’re a good fit for you.

Why Do Patients Choose Dental Implants Over Dentures?

Dental implants and dentures are both solid solutions for missing teeth. However, some patients shy away from the idea of having to take their teeth in and out for cleaning and sleeping. They’d rather have a solution that’s permanently affixed inside their mouth. For these patients, dental implants are a perfect alternative. They won’t slip or slide because they attach to metal posts that are bonded to your jawbone. No messy adhesive is required to maintain them; you care for them just as you do your natural teeth. With the right dental care, implants can last 20 years or more.

Can You Tell a Dental Implant Isn’t Your Natural Tooth?

You really can’t tell a dental implant from a natural tooth just by looking. Today’s implants can be dyed to match your surrounding teeth’ exact shade of white. This means others will only know you’re wearing an implant if you tell them so. Your implant will be durable, too, and able to do everything your natural tooth could do, including helping you pronounce words more clearly.

How Do Dental Implants Prevent Future Dental Problems?

Dental implants prevent your body from reabsorbing the bone beneath a lost tooth. When there’s no longer pressure in that area, your body assumes the bone is no longer needed. The bone is reabsorbed, and the jaw is weakened. Dental implants provide that needed pressure to keep your bone tissue healthy.

Dental Implants in Chardon, OH

To learn more about dental implants in Chardon, OH, schedule a consultation with Center Street Dental today. Our friendly and professional team is always willing to answer questions regarding your dental health and your goals for smile improvement.

Can I Get a Cavity on a Tooth with a Dental Implant?

Dental implants rely on an artificial tooth to replace a missing one. Because it’s an artificial material, it’s safe from cavities. This is great news for anyone worried about damaging the area, though it’s important to remember that it doesn’t tell the whole story. We’ll look at what you need to know about caring for implants so you can keep it for many years to come.

How to Care for Your Implant

An implant in Chardon, OH, is the closest thing you can get to your real tooth, so it’s the preferred option for patients handling the procedure. Here are our tips to keep it safe all year round:

  • Softer materials: The softer the brush, the better it is for your implant. A hard-bristled brush can scratch the surface, whereas a soft nylon brush will protect both your natural enamel and the artificial implant. You should also choose a toothpaste that’s sensitive to your teeth. The Relative Dentin Abrasivity (RDA) scale from the ADA can tell you more about where your favorite brand falls on the list.
  • Hygiene: Your implant may not be able to get cavities, but the surrounding teeth and the gums can still be damaged if you’re not careful about brushing and flossing regularly. Implants can, unfortunately, attract plaque even more than a regular tooth can, so you’ll need to be careful about how you’re treating them. It’s also important to see your dentist at least twice yearly for regular cleanings.
  • Lifestyle: Certain foods can be tough on your implants. Crusty bread, steak, hard candies: while you may not have to cut these things out entirely, you may need to avoid them whenever possible. Your implants are designed to resist wear and tear, though they will have their limits.

Dentists in Chardon, OH

Even if you can’t get a cavity on that tooth anymore, there are still precautions you need to take. If you’re looking for a dentist in Chardon, OH, that can help you take care of your implants for the long haul, Center Street Dental can help. Contact us today to learn more about how our services can help you get the smile you want.