If you are struggling with loose dentures, you’re not alone. Many denture wearers face challenges with fit and stability, leading to discomfort and difficulty in daily activities like eating and speaking. If you’re experiencing these issues with your dentures, you might be interested in denture stabilization. Now, you might wonder, “What is the process of denture stabilization?” At Ammons Dental by Design, we specialize in denture stabilization to provide our patients with a secure and comfortable solution.
Why Do Dentures Become Loose?
Dentures may occasionally become loose, a common issue prompting visits to the denturist for adjustments. While a loose denture isn’t cause for alarm, addressing it promptly is essential to avoid discomfort or potential damage.
Here are three primary reasons why dentures may suddenly become loose:
Poor Fit
An improper fit is a leading cause of loose dentures. Ill-fitting dentures can exert undue pressure on gums, leading to irritation and eventual shrinkage of gum tissue. This shrinkage can result in dentures no longer fitting snugly.
Gum Disease
Gum disease causes inflammation and tenderness in the gums, compromising their ability to hold dentures securely. Effective oral hygiene and regular dental care are crucial to managing gum health and maintaining denture stability.
Bone Resorption
Bone resorption is a natural process following the removal of natural teeth when preparing for dentures. The jawbone, no longer supporting teeth, gradually recedes in size. As a result, dentures lose their snug fit over time due to changes in the underlying bone structure.
Other Factors Contributing to Loose Dentures
- Age:
Natural changes in the mouth, such as gum and jawbone alterations, occur with aging, impacting denture fit.
- Eating Habits:
Chewing hard foods can strain dentures, potentially loosening them over time.
- Smoking:
Smoking contributes to gum shrinkage, further challenging denture stability.
Understanding these factors helps patients anticipate and manage changes in denture fit. Regular dental check-ups and adjustments by a qualified denturist are essential to ensuring optimal comfort and function of dentures over time.
What is Denture Stabilization?
Dental stabilization entails strategically implanting fixtures in the mouth to anchor dentures securely. While single-tooth implants are typical for individual tooth replacement, dentures become essential when multiple teeth are involved. Yet, traditional dentures often lead to discomfort and instability, risking embarrassing moments like inadvertent dislodgement during meals. Furthermore, the disagreeable taste of many denture adhesives can detract from the pleasure of eating and drinking throughout the day.
Types of Denture Stabilization
Denture stabilization comes in two primary forms: ball-retained and bar-retained dentures.
Ball-Retained Dentures
Ball-retained dentures, or stud-attachment dentures, utilize implants embedded in the jawbone with metal attachments that align with corresponding fittings on the dentures. The implant attachments are typically spherical, while the denture attachments resemble sockets, creating a secure ball-and-socket mechanism for enhanced stability.
Bar-Retained Dentures
Bar-retained dentures require the placement of at least two to five implants in the jawbone. These implants are connected by a curved metal bar that conforms to the shape of the jaw. The dentures fit over this bar, and the implants and the dentures have attachments that securely fasten them together, ensuring a stable and comfortable fit.
Process of Denture Stabilization
At Ammons Dental by Design, we follow a comprehensive process to ensure your dentures are properly stabilized. Here’s a detailed look at each step involved:
Consultation
The journey towards stabilized dentures begins with an in-depth consultation with our skilled dentist or prosthodontist specializing in denture stabilization. During this visit, your oral health will be thoroughly assessed, and we will discuss your expectations and goals for the procedure.
Treatment Planning
A personalized treatment plan is crafted following the consultation to meet your specific needs. This plan outlines the most suitable options for denture stabilization, including implant-supported dentures or other advanced adhesive techniques.
Preparation
If implant-supported dentures are chosen, the next phase involves preparing the jawbone for implant placement. This preparation might necessitate bone grafting to ensure sufficient bone structure to support the implants effectively.
Implant Placement
Dental implants are surgically inserted into the bone after the jawbone is adequately prepared. The exact number of implants required will vary based on individual circumstances and the chosen stabilization method.
Healing Period
Post-implant placement requires a crucial healing period for the implants to integrate seamlessly with the jawbone. This natural process, known as osseointegration, typically spans several months and is vital for achieving a stable denture foundation.
Attachment of Dentures
Once osseointegration is complete, abutments are attached to the implants. These abutments act as secure anchors for the dentures, ensuring a robust connection between them.
Fabrication of Dentures
The final step involves creating custom dentures that fit precisely over the implants. These dentures are designed to offer maximum stability and functionality, providing a secure and comfortable fit.
Adjustments and Follow-up
After attaching the dentures to the implants, necessary adjustments are made to ensure optimal comfort and fit. Comprehensive care instructions will be provided to help you maintain your new dentures and implants. Scheduled follow-up appointments will monitor the healing process and address any concerns, ensuring long-term success and satisfaction with your stabilized dentures.
What are the Benefits of Denture Stabilization?
Denture stabilization offers numerous advantages over traditional dentures, including:
Enhanced Comfort
Traditional dentures often cause discomfort due to movement or friction against the gums. Denture stabilization techniques significantly reduce these issues, providing a more comfortable and secure fit.
Superior Stability
A key benefit of denture stabilization is its enhanced stability. Securely fixed dentures prevent shifting and slipping, allowing individuals to speak, eat, and smile more confidently and easily.
Improved Chewing Efficiency
Individuals can enjoy a more natural and effective chewing experience with stabilized dentures. The stability ensures dentures stay in place while eating, improving digestion and nutritional intake.
Increased Confidence
Denture stabilization techniques greatly boost self-confidence by ensuring a reliable and snug fit. Individuals can freely and confidently engage in social interactions without worrying about dentures slipping or shifting.
Denture Stabilization at Ammons Dental by Design
Denture stabilization is a transformative solution for anyone struggling with loose or uncomfortable dentures. Ammons Dental by Design is committed to providing our patients with secure, comfortable, and natural-looking dentures through a meticulous stabilization process. If you’re ready to improve your quality of life with stabilized dentures, contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Contact Ammons Dental by Design today!
FAQs
How many implants do you need to hold dentures in?
Upper-jaw dentures typically require a minimum of four implants for anchorage, whereas securing a prosthesis to the lower jaw typically requires at least two implants.
Is denture stabilization the same as implants?
In specific situations, our dentists can use dental implants to securely anchor your existing denture, enhancing its stability and chewing efficiency. This procedure, known as denture stabilization, involves placing implants and adapting your current denture accordingly.
What is the success rate of denture implants?
The success rate of dental implants tends to be higher in younger patients. Typically, patients under 40 years old have a success rate of approximately 95%, whereas those over 40 have a slightly lower success rate of around 85%. Despite these general trends, there are numerous exceptions to this rule. Notably, some patients in their 60s and 70s have achieved successful outcomes with dental implants, demonstrating that age alone does not preclude successful treatment.
