Dealing with loose or uncomfortable dentures can significantly impact your quality of life. Eating your favorite foods, speaking confidently, and even smiling can become sources of anxiety. Thankfully, there’s a revolutionary solution that offers stability and security: implant-supported dentures.

At Steele Creek Smiles, we understand the desire for a comfortable and reliable tooth replacement option. That’s why we’re excited to share the step-by-step process of getting implant-supported dentures, also known as snap-in dentures or hybrid dentures. This innovative approach anchors your dentures to dental implants, providing a firm foundation and restoring your confidence.

Let’s walk through the journey together:

Step 1: Comprehensive Consultation and Evaluation

Your journey begins with a thorough consultation at our Charlotte office. Our dentist will conduct a comprehensive examination, including:

• Review of your medical history: To ensure you’re a suitable candidate for dental implants.
• Oral examination: Assessing the health of your gums and remaining bone structure.
• X-rays and/or 3D scans: To visualize the underlying bone and plan the precise placement of the implants.
• Discussion of your needs and goals: Understanding your expectations and tailoring the treatment plan accordingly.

Based on this evaluation, we’ll determine if implant-supported dentures are the right solution for you and discuss the different types available, such as overdentures (snap-in) or fixed hybrid dentures.

Step 2: Implant Placement Surgery

Once a personalized treatment plan is created, the next step involves the surgical placement of the dental implants. This minor surgical procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring your comfort.

• Small titanium posts, the dental implants, are strategically placed into your jawbone. The number of implants needed will vary depending on the type of denture and your individual needs (typically ranging from two to four implants per arch).
• In some cases, if there is insufficient bone volume, a bone grafting procedure may be necessary prior to implant placement to ensure adequate support.
• After implant placement, a healing period of several weeks or months is required. During this time, the implants will fuse with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and stable foundation. You will likely be provided with temporary dentures during this healing phase.

Step 3: Abutment Placement

Once the implants have fully integrated with your bone, the next step involves attaching abutments. These are small connector posts that protrude slightly above the gum line.

• A minor surgical procedure is required to expose the implants and attach the abutments.
• The abutments will serve as the anchors for your implant-supported dentures.

Step 4: Creating Your Custom Dentures

With the abutments in place, our skilled dental technicians will begin crafting your custom dentures. This involves:

• Taking precise impressions of your gums and abutments: Ensuring a perfect fit for your new dentures.
• Selecting the shape, size, and shade of your artificial teeth: Creating a natural and aesthetically pleasing smile.
• Fabricating the denture base: This will be designed to securely attach to the abutments.

Step 5: Denture Placement and Adjustment

Finally, your custom-made implant-supported dentures will be ready for placement.

• For snap-in dentures, the denture base will have special attachments that securely “snap” onto the abutments. This allows you to easily remove the dentures for cleaning and at night.
• For hybrid dentures, the denture is typically fixed to the abutments with screws and can only be removed by a dental professional.

We will ensure the dentures fit comfortably and function properly. Any necessary adjustments will be made to optimize your bite and comfort.

Step 6: Ongoing Care and Maintenance

Maintaining your implant-supported dentures is crucial for their longevity and your oral health. This includes:

• Regular brushing of your dentures: Just like natural teeth, dentures need to be cleaned daily.
• Thorough cleaning around the abutments: Removing any food particles or plaque.
• Regular check-ups at Steele Creek Smiles: Allowing us to monitor your implants, gums, and dentures and make any necessary adjustments.

Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures

Choosing implant-supported dentures offers numerous advantages over traditional dentures, including:

• Enhanced Stability: No more slipping or rocking dentures!
• Improved Chewing Ability: Enjoy a wider variety of foods.
• Increased Comfort: Eliminates pressure points and irritation.
• Better Speech: Speak with confidence without worrying about your dentures moving.
• Preservation of Jawbone: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss.
• Increased Confidence: Smile, eat, and speak with newfound assurance.

Ready to Experience the Difference?

If you’re tired of the limitations of traditional dentures and are looking for a stable and long-lasting solution, implant-supported dentures could be the answer. Contact Steele Creek Smiles today at  (704) 587-1010 to schedule a consultation. Let us help you rediscover the joy of a confident and comfortable smile!