If you’re considering (or you’ve had) implant-supported dentures in Rochester, NY, you may be wondering how long they last. With both the cost and the surgery involved, it’s important to be sure it’s the right decision before moving forward.
Fortunately, implant-supported dentures can generally last at least ten years with proper care and possibly as many as 15 years. Though they have the potential to last a lifetime, wear and tear on the material means they may need to be replaced sooner.
Once this time passes, some components of the dentures may need to be repaired or replaced.
What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?
Dentures are used to replace lost or missing teeth to restore chewing ability and the cosmetic appeal of the mouth. These are typically made of acrylic (plastic) or metal.
An implant-supported denture is a type of denture that replaces several teeth at once rather than individual implants. Typically, the denture is secured by two to four dental implants for support, which are attached to the jawbone with titanium posts. The posts fuse with the jawbone, creating an artificial tooth root.
Having a titanium tooth “root” provides more stability to the dentures and creates a more comfortable, functional, and appealing solution.
Once the implants integrate into the bone, the denture is fitted onto the implants to keep it secure and stable. This allows you to enjoy more foods with implant-supported dentures than you would with traditional dentures.
Implant-Supported Dentures vs. Traditional Dentures
For years, dentures have been the go-to alternative to natural teeth.[1] Dentures are removable and can be used to replace the full mouth of teeth, but they’re not ideal.
Though they can be mostly comfortable, dentures can move around or shift in the mouth and cause rubbing, sores, or ulcers. This can also impact a person’s confidence with smiling, biting into hard foods and even speaking.
Dentures only replace the visible part of the teeth, so there’s no tooth root to maintain the volume and strength of the jawbone. As a result, people can suffer bone loss in the jaw and get an “old age” or sunken appearance.
Getting dental implants can address these disadvantages. Dental implants are often used to replace one or two missing teeth, but they can also be used for implant-supported dentures.
Implant-supported dentures have many advantages, including:
- Preventing jawbone loss
- A natural look and feel that blends in with natural teeth
- Care and maintenance that are similar to caring for real teeth
- A wider range of food options
Implant-Supported Denture Longevity
The implants that support the dentures can last a lifetime. Even though the implants that support the dentures can last a lifetime, the restoration parts, including implant-supported dentures, may need to be replaced due to wear and tear. However, they are still superior options to traditional and other restorations and can last even 15 years, making them more cost-effective than other alternatives
Some aspects of implant-supported dentures last longer than others. For example, the components that secure the dentures to the implants may wear out more quickly than the rest and may need to be replaced sooner.
How to Care for Implant-Supported Dentures
Like natural teeth, implant-supported dentures must be carefully cleaned to improve longevity. Improper care and cleaning allow plaque to build up at the base, causing gum problems. The artificial teeth of the dentures will also be susceptible to staining and discoloration.
Here’s how to care for your implant-supported dentures:
- Brush with a toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to eliminate stains and biofilm.
- Get professional cleaning from your periodontist. This also allows your periodontist to assess the dentures and identify any issues with the restoration or your gums.
In addition, improper cleaning of your permanent dentures can lead to an infection and bone loss around the implant roots. If these become infected, you can experience a condition called peri-implantitis.[2] In some cases, this can lead to implant failure.
Schedule Your Consultation for Implant-Supported Dentures in Rochester, NY
Implant-supported dentures are an excellent alternative to conventional dentures to replace missing teeth. If you’re considering implant-supported dentures, Dental Implants and Periodontal Health of Rochester can help! Contact us today to schedule your consultation! 585-685-2005
Sources:
[1] https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-health-dentures