If you are missing most of your teeth or have been told that this is a possibility in your future, you might be worried about how you are going to maintain your smile and continue to enjoy the foods you love. You also might be averse to traditional dentures, which are often clunky or hard to get used to. Please know you are not alone. Luckily, there are alternatives to traditional dentures! A denture with attachment, also known as an implant-supported denture or an attachment-stabilized denture is a great solution for complete tooth loss. An attachment denture is a removable denture option that uses dental implants for better stability and retention. Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, dentures with attachments are attached to dental implants that have been surgically inserted into the jawbone. There are generally three different parts to attachment dentures.
1. Dental implants: Dental implants are small titanium screws that are inserted into the jawbone during a surgical procedure. They serve as a solid foundation for fixing the dental prosthesis because, by being placed directly into the jaw, they eventually become part of your body, mimicking a natural tooth root. Implants not only provide the structure for attachments and prostheses, but they also help maintain the strength and health of the bones in your jaw and face by promoting bone growth. The number of implants needed will depend on the oral situation of each patient.
2. Attachments: Attachments are parts that attach the dental prosthesis to the dental implants. There are different types of attachments, such as tie bars, silicone balls or magnetic attachments. The attachments provide a solid connection between the denture and the implants, while allowing easy removal for maintenance and cleaning.
3. Prosthesis (or denture): The dental prosthesis is the part you and everyone else can see. These are the natural looking, feeling, and performing false teeth that are attached to the implants. The dentures restore the beauty and functionality of your smile.
The advantages of dentures with attachment
- Increased stability: Dental implants provide a solid foundation for the denture, reducing movement, slippage or irritation that can be associated with traditional dentures.
- Improved comfort: Attached dentures are often more comfortable to wear because they don't rest directly on the gums, reducing pressure points and irritation.
- Improved chewing function: Better stability allows more efficient chewing, allowing the patient to enjoy a more varied diet.
- Increased confidence: Attached dentures provide a more natural appearance and better aesthetics, which can boost patient confidence and self-esteem.
Disadvantage of dentures with attachment
- Maintenance: Attached dentures require regular maintenance. It is important to remove the denture to clean it after meals and to brush it with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. The spaces between the prosthesis and the implants must also be cleaned with special interdental brushes. Daily rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash is recommended.
- Regular follow-up: It is essential to visit your dental technician regularly for examinations and adjustments if necessary. They will monitor the condition of your implants and dentures, and make adjustments if needed.
- Time and Cost: attachment dentures are generally more expensive and take much longer to get your full results. However, most patients will say that it is worth it!