Can Dental Implants Replace Dentures?

Every year, our periodontists consult with many patients who have been denture wearers for years. These patients often find themselves in Dr. Karbakhsch’s or Dr. Katafuchi’s chair because they are tired of dealing with the limitations that come with this tooth-replacement option. One of their biggest questions is often, “Can dental implants take the place of dentures?”

The quick answer is, “Absolutely!” But our periodontists believe in educating their patients, so keep reading to learn more about why you should choose dental implants to replace your dentures.

How Dental Implants Can Replace Dentures

If you currently have dentures but are tired of dealing with their drawbacks and limitations, our periodontists recommend making an appointment to discuss how dental implants could benefit you.

To replace your dentures, our doctors would simply evaluate the current health of your gums and jawbone by performing a full oral exam, taking needed X-rays and scans, and working with you to develop a treatment plan.

If you have been wearing dentures for some time, chances are you have started to experience jawbone resorption. This occurs when the jawbone begins to deteriorate after a lack of stimulation from tooth roots.

If Dr. Karbakhsch or Dr. Katafuchi determine that your jawbone has enough volume to receive dental implants immediately, they will recommend pre-treatment to improve the condition of your jawbone and gums.

If your jawbone does not have enough volume to receive dental implants, a bone graft will be used to rebuild deteriorated bone and prepare for dental implants. After the bone graft has completely healed, our doctors will be able to proceed with placing dental implants.

Those who have gum tissue that is diseased or deteriorated will need to receive a gum graft. Much like a bone graft, donor material is placed on the area to be treated to encourage regrowth and healing of the gums before dental implantation.

All-on-4 Dental Implants

In many cases, patients who are replacing dentures with dental implants will choose to have All-on-4 dental implants placed. These state-of-the-art implants are less invasive than traditional dental implants and only use four dental implants per arch of teeth. This means that there is less jawbone required to place the implants, making All-on-4 dental implants a perfect option for long-time denture wearers.

Once our periodontists have placed your All-on-4 implants, you will be fitted with an entire mouthful of teeth, but this time, they will be permanent! You will not have to struggle with your teeth slipping and sliding within your mouth as you speak or eat. And you will not have any dietary restrictions, either. Dental implants permanently bond to the jawbone, and the strong prosthetic crowns that are placed on top enable patients to eat and drink anything they want!

Dental implants are also the most natural-looking tooth replacement option on the market. Your new teeth will be custom-made to fit your mouth and enhance your smile beautifully.

Call Dr. Karbakhsch and Dr. Katafuchi Today

If you have been considering dental implants to replace your dentures, you are not alone! Many men and women are making the same move. Do not wait any longer to enjoy a life free of worry and fear! Start smiling, eating, and talking with your friends with confidence again.

To schedule your initial dental implant consultation with one of our doctors, call our office today at (253) 752-6336.