If you’re missing several teeth or all of your pearly whites, dentures may be the right solution to give you back a full, confident smile. Though they’re a much better option than living with missing teeth, dentures are notorious for slipping while you eat or speak. They’re also removable, which means that they require a special cleaning routine. For these reasons, you may be considering making the transition from dentures to dental implants. Getting used to your new replacement teeth can take some time, so read on for tips that will help make the switch easier.
Before You Make the Switch
When you lose teeth, this means that the jawbone in those areas is no longer receiving enough stimulation. Because of this, your jawbone may begin to erode. This causes it to become weaker and may lead to additional tooth loss. Dental implants are inserted directly into the jawbone, so your dentist will take X-rays to determine if a bone graft is necessary to build up enough structure to support them.
After Treatment
Once your dental implant surgery has been completed, it will take some time to get used to them. They should start to feel as normal and natural as the rest of your teeth within a few weeks, but it takes four to six months on average for them to completely fuse with the jawbone through osseointegration. For the first 10 to 14 days post-op, avoid eating crunchy or hard foods. They can impede the healing process as well as cause discomfort. In addition, though dental implants have a 95% success rate and complications are uncommon, make sure to call your dentist as soon you notice any unusual pain, swelling, or redness.
3 Things to Expect While Getting Used to Dental Implants
In some cases, your dentist may be able to modify your existing dentures to attach to dental implants. Even so, they will likely need to have a new set made if you decide to get implant dentures. Whether you go with dentures or individual implants, there are a few things you’ll notice while getting used to your new smile, including:
- No slipping –Osseointegration makes dental implants incredibly stable, so you won’t have to worry about them slipping in your mouth when you eat, speak, or laugh with friends and family.
- Permanence –Dentures need to be replaced every five to 10 years on average, but dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care. This means brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings.
- Getting used to things –For the first few weeks after havingyour implants placed, you may produce more saliva than usual. This is because your body is still getting used to them, and it should go away once you’ve adjusted.
With these things in mind, the transition from dentures to dental implants will be a piece of cake. Soon, you’ll be enjoying a healthy, stable new smile!
About the Author
Are you interested in transitioning from dentures to dental implants? Dr. Jennifer A. Reed and her Lincoln team at Smile Specialties are here to help. They can assist you in getting used to your new smile so you’ll be able to fully enjoy having a stable, lifelike set of pearly whites. Call the dental office of Dr. Jennifer A. Reed at (402) 488-5007 or visit their website for more information on transitioning to dental implants or to set up an appointment.