Franklin, TN Implant-Supported Dentures
As uncomfortable and unstable as removable dentures can be, it’s important to know that there are other restorative options available if you have lost many or all of your teeth. Dr. Weber offers several fixed-implant denture options:
- Hybrid dentures
- All-on-4 dental implants
- Implant bridges
Each one offers you a wonderful opportunity to reimagine your smile.
Hybrid Implant-Supported Dentures
A hybrid denture is so called because it is somewhat of a mix between an implant overdenture and an implant bridge. Like a traditional overdenture, the hybrid denture is crafted to replace the missing gum tissue as well as the teeth. Like an implant bridge, the hybrid denture is secured to the jawbone through the use of implanted fixtures. As you can imagine, the stability of the denture depends on the number of implants installed. Hybrid dentures like the one shown below will generally involve the use of four to six implants.
In cases in which a patient’s bone quantity is insufficient to place conventional implants, Dr. Weber uses a technique called All-on-4. For more information on fixed-implant dentures placed with this technique, visit the following page: Franklin, TN All-on-4 Dental Implants.
Implant Bridges
Whereas hybrid implant dentures are composed of a full set of artificial gums as well as teeth, implant bridges consist of any number of implanted crowns holding teeth suspended between them. A full upper or lower set would generally involve six or so implants, but implant bridges can be used to replace even just a few teeth. In the diagram of such a bridge below, notice how every other front tooth is a crown designed to fit securely over an implant abutment. The teeth that hang between each pair of crowns fit snugly against the original gum tissue for a beautiful smile that appears natural.
Another Benefit of Implant-Supported Dentures
An unfortunate consequence of losing your teeth is that it causes your jawbone to deteriorate. Known as bone resorption, this natural process occurs when the loss of many teeth signals to the body that the jawbone is no longer needed. The bone minerals then begin to disintegrate for reuse elsewhere in the body. Resorption of the jaw will eventually lead to a condition known as facial collapse. Your face will have a sunken-in appearance, and there will be so little jawbone left that it is very difficult to retain any kind of denture at all. This can all be prevented by replacing some of your missing tooth structure with screws implanted in your jawbone, such as those used in implant-supported dentures.
Our Process
Whether you’re ready to replace a full set of removable dentures or just multiple teeth in your smile, you’ll want a dentist who is highly trained in the artistry of natural-looking smile design. As the only accredited cosmetic dentist in Franklin, Dr. Weber takes great care to ensure a truly beautiful result.
His process begins with a full dental exam to assess the condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. From this exam, he will be able to recommend the type of implant-supported denture or fixed-implant denture that is right for you. The next step is a referral to a surgeon who will implant the screws in the precise locations specified by Dr. Weber. After surgery, you will be given a temporary denture for a period of three to five months. During this time, your bone will fuse to the implants, a process called osseointegration. Placing stress on the implants before osseointegration is complete runs a risk of implant failure.
While this healing occurs, Dr. Weber will meet with you to discuss your ideal smile design. By listening to understand your vision and taking into account your facial aesthetics, Dr. Weber will arrive at a finished design. He’ll then use digital imaging to show you what it will look like. When you absolutely love your new look, Dr. Weber will deliver the specifications to the laboratory technician who will craft your hybrid dentures or implant bridge.
If you would like to try out your dentures before they arrive, Dr. Weber will utilize 3D printing technology to create a back-up set that you can wear home. He will place your ceramic denture or bridge after it has arrived at our office.
Where to Start
To schedule your dental exam, you can call our office at (615) 794-2444 or request an appointment online to receive a scheduling call from us.
If you’d like to discuss fixed-implant denture options with Dr. Weber before committing to a paid exam, we welcome you to schedule a 15-minute consultation free of charge.
