If you have had dentures for a while, you might have enjoyed the many benefits they brought you. You were able to show off a full smile and had an easier time eating your favorite foods. However, if you are making the switch to dental implants, then you may be even more excited about having up to 90% of your original bite back. You might be nervous about this transition, so here’s a guide on what to expect during it.
What Should I Expect Going from Dentures to Dental Implants?
Before you’re able to get dental implants, your dentist will want to make sure that you’re a good candidate for them. They will take a look at any dental problems, systemic conditions, and jawbone density. Through X-rays and an oral assessment, you’ll be able to learn the next steps.
Many patients can get this tooth replacement right away, but just as many will need preliminary treatment. For instance, since implants are placed in your jaw, it has to be strong and healthy enough to support them. If it’s weaker in certain areas, you can get a bone graft to reinforce the area to improve your chances of a successful procedure.
When it’s time to undergo your placement surgery, your dentist will then insert four to six implant posts per arch. You’ll then have to have to wait for the bone to fuse to the fixtures, which can take up to six months on average. After that, your dentures will be attached, and you’re all set. You will have a stable bite that doesn’t slip as it might have before.
How Can I Make the Transition to Dental Implants Easier?
As you finally make that swap to dental implants from dentures, you will need to adjust to them at first. It’ll take some time for you to build a new routine, but here are some tips to make this transition easier:
- Eat soft foods during your recovery so you don’t put your mouth under too much stress. Hard, crunchy, and spicy foods can lead to irritation, so opt for things that are gentle and don’t need much chewing. Soups, eggs, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are some great options.
- Revamp your dental hygiene. You don’t need to use any denture adhesives anymore, so you’ll be able to get rid of them. Better yet, caring for dental implants is the same as caring for natural teeth. Brush and floss them twice a day to get rid of harmful bacteria and build up.
You should also keep up with visits to your dentist. They will be able to stick with you throughout your implant process and make sure everything is healing as planned. That way, you get a stable bite that you feel better in.
About the Practice
At Summerlin Center for Aesthetic Dentistry, you benefit from a team of skilled dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are here to help the Las Vegas community with their missing teeth with reliable options like dental implants! By completing the entire process in-house, you stay with a team you trust throughout the process. If you are interested in swapping your dentures for this other tooth replacement, schedule an appointment or call our office at (702) 844-6224.