For many people, dentures have been the go-to solution for replacing missing teeth, allowing them to restore some level of normalcy when it comes to eating, speaking, and smiling. However, dentures are not without their drawbacks. They can be uncomfortable, require regular maintenance, and don’t provide the same stability as natural teeth. If you’ve worn dentures for a while and are now considering dental implants, you might be wondering if it’s still an option.
It’s time to explore how you can get dental implants after dentures in San Marcos. Learn about the potential need for bone grafting and what to expect during the healing process. Let’s dive into the details and get ready for your new implants after dentures.
Can you still get dental implants after dentures?
You can still get dental implants even after wearing dentures for an extended period of time. Many individuals who have used dentures for years eventually seek a more stable, natural-feeling alternative, and implants offer just that. Perhaps you’re even wondering, “Do dental implants feel better than dentures?”. The answer is a resounding yes! Dental implants are anchored directly to your jawbone, offering unparalleled stability and a natural feel, unlike dentures that can slip or shift.
Dental implants involve surgically placing titanium posts into your jawbone, which serve as artificial tooth roots. These posts provide a stable foundation for crowns, bridges, or even full-arch prosthetics, allowing you to enjoy the look and feel of real teeth. However, the condition of your jawbone is an important factor here.
Over time, wearing dentures can lead to bone loss in the jaw due to a lack of stimulation that natural teeth or implants provide. The jawbone typically requires this stimulation to stay healthy and retain its density. However, even if some bone loss has occurred, you may still be a candidate for implants. In cases where bone density is insufficient, your dentist might suggest a bone graft to build up the bone before implants can be placed.
While it’s important to have a thorough evaluation to determine your suitability for dental implants, the good news is that advancements in dental technology and techniques have made implants a viable option for many patients, even those who have worn dentures for years.
Will I need bone grafting for implants after dentures?
One common concern for people transitioning from dentures to implants is whether bone grafting will be necessary. Bone grafting is a surgical procedure where the dentist adds bone material to the jawbone to provide adequate support for dental implants. The need for bone grafting largely depends on how long you’ve been wearing dentures and the condition of your jawbone.
As mentioned earlier, the jawbone can shrink over time if it doesn’t receive regular stimulation from teeth or implants. When teeth are lost, the body begins to resorb the bone, leading to a thinner and weaker jawbone. If you’ve been wearing dentures for several years, there’s a higher chance that some bone loss has occurred.
In cases where bone loss is moderate or severe, your dentist may recommend a bone graft to reinforce the jawbone and make it strong enough to support implants. Bone grafting can be done using bone material from your own body or using synthetic materials. The goal is to create a solid foundation for the implant posts.
However, not everyone who has worn dentures will need bone grafting. It’s possible that even with some bone loss, your jaw may still be strong enough to support implants without additional bone material. The best way to know for sure is through a detailed evaluation with your dentist, including X-rays or a CT scan, to assess the current state of your jawbone.
Can you wear dentures while implants are healing?
A common question among denture wearers who are considering dental implants is, “Can you wear dentures while waiting for implants?”. In most cases, this is not recommended. The healing process for dental implants, known as osseointegration, can take several months, as it involves the implant fusing with the jawbone to create a stable foundation. Understandably, patients may worry about how they’ll manage during this period, particularly when it comes to eating and speaking.
The good news is that while the implants are healing, you typically won’t need to wear your old dentures. In fact, wearing conventional dentures during the healing process is usually not recommended because they can interfere with the healing and integration of the implants. Instead, dentists often provide patients with temporary prosthetic teeth that can be worn while the implants heal. These temporary teeth are designed to be lighter and less intrusive than traditional dentures, allowing your implants to heal properly without added pressure on the surgical sites.
Temporary prosthetics also help maintain aesthetics and functionality during the healing process. You won’t have to go without teeth while waiting for the implants to fuse with your jawbone. The temporary teeth will be custom-made to fit comfortably and allow you to eat soft foods and speak normally. Once the healing is complete, the temporary teeth are replaced with permanent crowns or bridges that are securely attached to the implants.
This approach provides a much more comfortable and convenient experience than trying to wear dentures over healing implants, which could cause discomfort or disrupt the healing process. If you’re considering transitioning from regular dentures to a more secure option, you might wonder, “Can you get snap in dentures after having regular dentures?”. While this is possible, make sure to discuss dental implants with your dentist first. Implants offer a superior long-term solution compared to snap-in dentures.
Who can help me get high-quality implants after dentures in San Marcos?
If you’re considering making the switch from dentures to dental implants, the first step is to consult with a qualified dental implant specialist. There’s no better place for that than Temecula Center for Dental Implants. Our specialist, Dr. Tsvetov, has decades of experience behind him and a highly professional, precise approach to your dental health. He can assess your oral health, determine whether you need any preparatory procedures, and guide you through the process to ensure the best possible outcome for your smile and overall well-being. We’re just a quick ride away from Moonlight Beach. Get in touch today and schedule the first appointment!