Can Implant-Retained Dentures Be Removed?
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When most people think of dentures, they probably picture false teeth that are put in place each day using an adhesive. Thanks to exciting advances in modern technology and dentistry, dentures can now be placed for the long-term, giving patients more confidence, comfort, and functionality than ever before. At Evolution Dentistry in Houston, TX, Dr. Mohamad El-Kheir is proud to offer implant-supported dentures to help men and women restore the strong, healthy, beautiful smile they deserve. Read on to learn more about what to expect with implant-supported dentures, including how they are set in place, how long they may last, and whether or not they can be removed or replaced.
What are implant-retained dentures?
Also known as implant-supported dentures or lock-in dentures, implant-retained dentures are artificial tooth restorations held into place by dental implants. These highly functional and natural-looking restorations can be used to replace a section of missing teeth or all of the patient’s teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, which are taken in and out of the mouth daily, lock-in dentures are secured to titanium screws that are implanted into the patient’s jawbone. Because of this, implant-retained dentures are considered much more durable, reliable, and convenient when compared with removable dentures.
What to expect when getting implant-supported dentures
In most cases, the process of getting implant-retained dentures is completed in a series of appointments, which may include:
- Dental exam and x-rays
- Addressing any oral health problems and preparing the mouth for treatment
- Tooth extraction
- Inserting titanium screws
- Attaching custom-made dentures to the implant
Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, which can take several months, Dr. Kheir will attach the patient’s custom dentures to the screw via a connector piece, called an abutment. This technique prevents the dentures from shifting or moving and allows the patient to eat, chew, talk, and smile with confidence.
How are lock-in dentures removed?
One of the primary advantages of having implant-supported dentures is that they are long-lasting, which obviates the need for applying them with adhesive each day and gives patients confidence that their dentures will not move or shift while eating. In certain situations, however, it may be necessary for implant-supported dentures to be removed or replaced. This is certainly possible but can only be done by a professional dentist, who will disconnect the dentures from the abutment. The implant itself, which is the titanium screw in the patient’s jawbone, will remain in place.
Do implant-supported dentures ever need to be replaced?
For the majority of patients who practice proper dental hygiene and oral care, implant-retained dentures can last a lifetime. In rare cases, the restorations themselves may become damaged or stained, but the implanted screw will remain intact and can support a new set of dentures if needed. To maximize the life of your lock-in dentures, be sure to:
- Maintain a dedicated oral hygiene routine
- Do not smoke
- Avoid staining foods and beverages
- Attend regular dental exams
With a healthy lifestyle and attention to your oral health, your implant-supported dentures can keep you looking and feeling your best for decades to come.
Ditch the glue with lock-in dentures in Houston, TX
No one wants to worry about their dentures coming loose in the middle of an important meeting or a meal. With implant-retained dentures, you won’t have to. To learn more about the life-changing benefits of lock-in dentures, call Evolution Dentistry in Houston, TX to schedule your one-on-one consultation with award-winning dentist Dr. Mohamad El-Kheir today.