You made the transition to dentures some time ago. Whether you opted for a full set or partials, that definitely made a world of difference. Both you and your gums had to make some adjustments. Now you’ve been looking into dental implants. You’re curious, but hesitant. How much of a hassle is that change going to be?
For some concrete details about what it will be like going from dentures to dental implants, keep reading. We’ll pull back the curtain on the difference.
Experiencing Your Senses with Dental Implants
Oftentimes and especially with dental treatments, we worry about how something is going to feel. Are dental implants comfortable? Will that be weird after having worn dentures for a while? The idea of anchoring a titanium post to your jawbone certainly sounds unpleasant. In actuality, many patients find dental implants much more comfortable and natural than dentures.
For one thing, those titanium posts integrate with your bone in much the same way that a natural dental root would. Your jaw also has very few nerve endings, which is why you don’t usually walk around with the sensation of having a root or implant post.
For another thing, this anchoring makes your dental implant incredibly sturdy. It won’t slip or move while you talk or eat. From a tactile perspective, having dental implants feels the most like having natural teeth!
Navigating the Finer Details of Dental Implant Treatment
So the sensory transition is looking pretty good. What about the logistics? How will you go about moving from dentures to dental implants? It depends on your oral situation.
Your dentist will customize your treatment plan to ensure your mouth can support your implants. This might look like taking some time for a bone graft to reinforce your jawbone or pausing to clean out gingivitis. Either way, you’ll first consult with your dentist. They’ll work with you to build an effective dental implant road map.
If you thought “that sounds time-consuming”, you’re not wrong. Dental implant treatment is notoriously lengthy. In total, it could take between six months to a year for your transition to be considered complete. But this is the best and safest way to achieve success, and many patients consider the wait totally worth it.
How to Avoid a Bumpy Dental Implant Placement
Fortunately, the process isn’t out of your control! Here are some things you can do to help it go smoothly:
- Get plenty of vitamin D to help strengthen your jawbone
- Take pain relievers as necessary
- Maintain good oral hygiene
- Follow your dentist’s instructions
It’s especially important to listen to your dentist! The world of dental implants might be new to you, but this isn’t their first rodeo. As long as you follow their guidance, your chances of success are 95%. Once you get settled with your new implants, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite foods and make conversation with ease.
About the Author
Dr. Kathy Lam knows that personalized care is crucial for successful treatment. She’ll assess your oral needs and help you build a dental treatment plan that will get you where you want to go. You’ll be able to kick back and relax knowing that she’s at the helm. To contact her office, call 630-653-7720 or explore her website for more information.