How to Transition from Dentures to Dental Implants

Dentures are prosthetic devices that are used to replace missing teeth and can be made from a variety of materials, including resin, nylon, acrylic, porcelain, and metal. Though they are a good alternative to living life with gaps in your grin, dentures are also notorious for slipping when people, eat, speak, and laugh. This leads some patients to want to switch to dental implants. These titanium posts are inserted directly into the jawbone and fuse with it through a process called osseointegration. Though they are incredibly durable and can last a lifetime with proper care, it can be difficult to transition from dentures to dental implants. Read on for some tips that will make it easier to make the switch.

Before You Make the Switch

Losing teeth means that the jawbone in that area will no longer be receiving the stimulation it needs to remain healthy. This will eventually cause it to begin eroding. Your dentist will take X-rays to determine how healthy your jawbone is. If it isn’t dense enough to support dental implants, they may recommend a bone graft.

After Treatment

Once your implants have been placed, it will take some time to get used to them. Though they should begin to feel normal within a few weeks, it will take four to six months for them to heal completely.  For the first 10 to 14 days after surgery, avoid eating hard or crunchy foods since they can impede the healing process. Additionally, though dental implants have a 95% success rate and you’re unlikely to experience any complications, make sure to reach out to your dentist as soon as possible if you notice any unusual swelling, redness, or pain.

3 Things to Expect While Getting Used to Dental Implants

Though there are some cases where your dentist may be able to modify your dentures so they can attach to your dental implants, you will likely need to get new restorations. A few things that you can expect as you get used to your new restorations include:

• No slipping –Since dental implants fuse with the jawbone, you will be able to speak and eat in comfort. Even so, it’s wise to stick to soft foods like soup, smoothies, cooked cereals, and mashed potatoes until your mouth heals.
• Permanence –Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanent and can last a lifetime with proper care. This means brushing twice and flossing once per day to avoid oral health issues that may jeopardize your new smile.
• Getting used to things –You may produce more saliva than usual when you first have your implants placed. This is because your body isn’t used to them yet. Within a few weeks, they will begin to feel and function like your normal teeth.

The transition from dentures to dental implants may take some getting used to, but it will provide you with a more stable, dependable, and long-lasting smile. If you’re interested in making the switch, reach out to your dentist so they can help you achieve the smile of your dreams!

About the Author

Oshins of Smiles is here to help you replace missing teeth for a full, gorgeous grin. Led by Dr. Steven Oshins, they offer high-quality, durable dental implants to prevent oral health issues and give you back at least 80% of your bite power. Before you know it, you’ll be eating, smiling, and laughing with confidence. If you’re ready to make an appointment or want more information about dental implants, call Oshins of Smiles at (518) 356-5635 or visit their website.