If you’re missing all your teeth on an arch and are looking for a permanent way to replace them, implant dentures are a durable, natural-looking solution to restore your smile for a lifetime. Although you may be eager to begin enjoying the many benefits of this amazing treatment, getting implant dentures takes a little time. Here’s how long you can expect to wait before your smile is restored and you can start using your new teeth to eat, speak, and smile confidently!
Step One: The Consultation
The first step in your implant denture journey is a consultation with your dentist. Together, you will discuss your medical history, and they will examine your gums and jaw, take impressions and images, and customize a treatment plan specifically for you. If you are diagnosed with any oral health conditions such as gum disease or if you are suffering from jawbone deterioration, your dentist will discuss your treatment options for those first.
Step Two: Preliminary Treatment
Should you require any preliminary treatments prior to your dental implant surgery, it is important that these are completed. That’s because although dental implants have an impressive 95 percent success rate even ten years after placement, they can only be as successful as you make them. Meaning if you have untreated gum disease or a badly deteriorated jaw, your odds for dental implant failure are much higher. Thus, if any of the problems are present, you will need to correct them before advancing to the next step.
Step Three: Dental Implant Surgery
Once your mouth has healed from any preliminary treatment, or if you did not require the second step, you are ready for your dental implant placement surgery. Typically, implant dentures only require four to six posts to secure your prosthetic in place. This of course will depend on the type of denture you select, as some are better for certain individuals than others.
Your surgery will begin with your dentist numbing your mouth and then inserting the implant posts into your jawbone. Once complete, you will return home to recover and allow the implants to fuse with your jaw. This healing process (known as osseointegration) typically takes four to six months.
Step Four: Placement of The Implant Denture
Once the osseointegration process has been completed, you will be ready to have your prosthetic placed on your dental implants. This requires another trip to your dentist. The procedure can be done in just one visit, and because it doesn’t require any downtime or healing process, you can even begin to use your new teeth as soon as you leave!
Remember, the exact amount of time it takes to get implant dentures depends on a variety of factors, including your individual oral health prior to treatment as well as how long it takes for your dental implants to complete osseointegration. Your dentist can give you a more accurate estimate of the total, but rest assured that no matter how long it takes, you will likely find your beautifully restored smile well worth your time!
About Our Practice
At DD Family Dentistry of Carrollton, Dr. Durga and Dr. Morrison are proud to offer implant denture treatment right here in our office. If you are missing a full arch of teeth and want to replace them with a more permanent, durable solution than traditional dentures, implant dentures are an excellent option. To learn more about this treatment and to see if you qualify, schedule a consultation with us today on our website or by calling 972-236-7906.