Implant-Support Dentures in Lakeland, FL

Even if you do everything right to maintain quality oral hygiene, sometimes decay and infection can take hold in your mouth. Unfortunately, in some cases, tooth extraction may be the only option to support ongoing health. If this occurs, Crosby Dentistry is dedicated to helping you find suitable restorative alternatives to give you a bright and complete smile. Implant dentures offer several beneficial features that make them ideal for restorative dentistry.

Our team at Crosby Dentistry is proud to serve the people of Lakeland, Florida. We know that dealing with tooth loss can be stressful and impact your quality of life. Whether you are missing a few teeth or an entire arch of teeth, we provide helpful and professional care to help you feel like yourself again. When you visit our office in Lakeland, FL, we focus on your comfort and your unique oral health goals.

What Are Implant-Support Dentures?

Implant-supported dentures are a complete set of dentures containing several teeth. While they are most commonly used for a full set of top or bottom teeth, they can occasionally be used to complete a row of several missing teeth by working alongside your natural teeth. These dentures are held in place using bio-friendly titanium rods. The rods are surgically implanted into your jawbone, allowed to heal, and then used to support the artificial denture structure that will fit above the gumline. Implant-support dentures are custom-made and will look and feel just like your natural teeth.

This type of denture is different from conventional dentures because it relies on a dental implant for support rather than just resting on the gums. By using titanium posts to act as natural tooth roots, this solution provides greater stability. It is an excellent option for those who want to avoid the slipping and sliding often found with removable prosthetics.

Benefits of Implant-Supported Solutions

Many patients choose an implant denture because of the benefits they offer for long-term oral health. One of the most important benefits is bone preservation. When you lose teeth, the jawbone can begin to shrink because it is no longer being stimulated by tooth roots. This is called bone loss. Because a dental implant bonds with the bone, it helps maintain your facial structure and prevents gradual bone loss.

Another benefit is the ability to enjoy a wider variety of foods. Since the dentures are locked onto a stable foundation, you can eat your favorite foods without worrying about your teeth moving. You also won’t need to use messy denture adhesives. This gives many of our patients complete confidence when they are eating or speaking in public. It is a true upgrade for anyone currently struggling with traditional removable dentures or partial dentures.

Who Can Benefit from This Treatment in Lakeland, Florida

If you are currently wearing a full denture but find it uncomfortable, you might be a good candidate for this procedure. We often recommend these for patients who have lost an entire arch of teeth or those who are facing multiple tooth extractions. This treatment is also a great part of cosmetic dentistry for those who want a more permanent and secure new smile.

To be a good candidate, you need to have enough bone density to support the metal posts. If you have experienced significant bone loss, we may talk to you about bone grafting to strengthen the area. We also look at your overall health conditions and medical conditions to make sure oral surgery is safe for you. Our goal is to make sure you have all the information needed to make an informed decision about your dental care.

What Is the Procedure for Implant-Supported Dentures?

Adding implant-supported dentures is usually a multi-step process. First, we will remove your affected teeth and will then implant bio-friendly titanium posts into your gumline. This process is completed while you are under sedation, and we are committed to keeping you comfortable through the procedure. The metal posts will take about six months to heal, and during this process, your bone will naturally graft onto the metal, making the supports extra strong.

Following the six-month healing process, you will return for your second appointment. During this appointment, you’ll be fitted with your new set of dentures, custom-created for you. Your dentures will be affixed to the metal posts using a specialized locking tool. While implant dentures are technically permanent, Dr. Brian Crosby has the ability to remove them. After some minor adjustments to ensure your bite is consistent and the dentures are comfortable, you are ready to show off your brand-new smile.

How Do Implant Dentures Differ From Traditional Dentures?

Similar to traditional dentures, implant dentures are made to look and feel just like natural teeth. Patients can customize their dentures, choosing the tooth shape and color that most closely matches their natural smile. Traditional dentures and implant dentures are both made of high-quality plastics that are realistic-looking, durable, and hygienic.

With traditional dentures, patients can take the appliance in and out of the mouth. This feature can be convenient for cleaning, but can also be a chore. Implant dentures, on the other hand, fit directly onto metal rods in your mouth and are locked in place by the dentist, but can be removed using a specialized tool. This provides a much more comfortable fit compared to a traditional denture that might rub against the gums.

Caring for Your New Smile in Lakeland, FL

Taking care of your new denture is very simple, but it requires proper care to stay in top shape. You should brush your dentures just like you would natural teeth to remove food and plaque. Since these are fixed implant dentures, you will also need to clean around the titanium posts and under the bridge part of the device.

Regular visits to our office in Lakeland are also very important. During these visits, our dental team will check the placement of dental implants and the health of your gums. We want to ensure that everything remains secure. With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, your implant denture can provide a functional and beautiful smile for a very long time.