Implant-Retained Dentures in Houston, TX

An implant-retained denture is a dental appliance that is used to replace a larger number of missing teeth at once. They are fixed (attached to an implant) and are made to closely resemble your natural teeth to enhance the smile. There are two types of dentures: full (or complete) and partial. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, but it also prevents other teeth from shifting. Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years but may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear. At Evolution Dentistry, our skilled dentists are well-trained in the science of implant dentistry and provide the best care for patients throughout Houston, TX.

There are many reasons patients choose implant-retained dentures at Evolution Dentistry. Our skilled dentists take great pride in providing excellent care for each of our valued patients. Here are some of the most well-known benefits:

• Improved appearance: Implant-supported dentures provide a more natural look and feel than traditional, removable dentures.
• Increased comfort: Temporary dentures or removable dentures cause irritation and discomfort in the soft tissues of the mouth. Implant-retained dentures are less likely to slip around or fall out.
• Improved oral health: Implant-supported dentures help prevent further jawbone loss and maintain the natural shape of your face by supporting the underlying structures.

You may be interested in implant-supported dentures if you're currently using removable dentures to replace missing teeth. Unlike removable devices, our solutions do not require the use of adhesives to remain in place. You should be able to eat and drink what you want without the risk of dentures coming loose or slipping out. Now you can enhance your smile and improve the way you speak and eat.

Candidates for implant-retained dentures have healthy gums and no underlying dental conditions that need to be addressed first. Evolution Dentistry will perform a thorough assessment of your mouth before creating a personalized treatment plan for your implants. Candidates at our dental clinic may be seeking:

• A full denture to replace an entire arch of teeth
• A partial denture to replace a partial arch

If you need dentures or several teeth replaced but don’t want the hassle of having to remove and clean dentures every night, implant-retained dentures may be an ideal solution. Reasons for getting this special type of partial- or full-mouth treatment at Evolution Dentistry in Houston, TX may include:

• Needing to replace teeth
• Preserving the jawbone
• Improving your smile
• Eating foods without dentures falling out
• Speaking clearly
• A longer-lasting option than regular dentures

Before any treatment, a member of the Evolution Dentistry team will perform a thorough dental exam with digital imaging to evaluate the condition of your gums and jawbone. If the gums or jawbone are not strong enough to securely hold the implants, a gum and/or bone graft surgery can be done. Once the area is fully healed, the implants can be placed.

You will be given local anesthesia to numb your mouth before the procedure. Other sedation options can be considered if the process will be lengthy or if it helps you feel more comfortable. Your dentist or oral surgeon will make surgical incisions in your gums and place posts in the jawbone. For dentures, four or more posts are used per arch. The incisions in the gums will be stitched with part of the implant visible above the gumline. The implants will be protected by a temporary denture as they heal over 4 – 6 months. The implants will integrate with your gums and jawbone. As soon as your Evolution Dentistry dentist decides that the dental implants are secure, your custom dentures will be attached to the implants and adjusted for a secure fit.

Implant-retained dentures should be cleaned with daily brushing and flossing. You will need to go to regular exams and cleanings at Evolution Dentistry to have the fit and wear of your implants and dentures checked. With the proper care, implant-supported dentures can last many years. Your oral surgeon can help you decide if your implant dentures should be repaired or replaced.

What about temporary dentures?

While traditional temporary dentures are still used today in Houston, TX, dental implants are a better long-term option in terms of appearance and functionality. Implants are surgically inserted — so they don't slip out of place when speaking or eating. Best of all, they prevent atrophy that can occur following tooth loss.

How long do implant-retained dentures last?

Implants can last a lifetime if they are properly maintained. Like teeth, implants do require ongoing care by brushing and flossing. Continue to attend cleanings, exams, and follow-up appointments at Evolution Dentistry as recommended by your dentist. We can make sure the implants remain healthy and disease-free.

Will I look different with implants?

Many people find that they can't tell the difference between implants and their own natural teeth after undergoing treatment at our clinic. In most cases, your smile will even look better! Dentists should know how to create a natural smile with implants, which is why it's important to see a highly-skilled professional for treatment.

Implant-retained dentures are a great way to restore a large number of compromised or missing teeth at once with a reliable implant fixture. Our dentists at Evolution Dentistry are pleased to offer this innovative option for tooth replacement and restoration. If you live in Houston, TX or one of the surrounding areas, schedule an appointment to learn about your options for tooth replacement and dental restoration.