What Are Implant Supported Dentures?

Dentures are an effective, affordable way to replace missing teeth and have been popular for many years. Amidst their popularity, some patients do tend to experience some uncomfortable drawbacks, chiefly that they can slip and move around in the mouth. This affects speech patterns and limits what people can eat. However, implant supported dentures are a recent innovation that overcomes these challenges.

With implant supported dentures, upper and lower dentures can be secured into place in the mouth, providing a more stable solution for missing teeth. Dentists will often recommend supportive implants to help secure lower denture plates as they are oftentimes hard to fit.

The process works by using titanium posts (dental implants) which are placed into the jaw to mimic the tooth’s roots. The posts fuse with natural bone through a process called osseointegration. Abutments are fixed to the posts and the denture plates will either screw on (fixed) or snap (removable) into place.

Implant supported dentures are cost effective alternatives to having multiple individual implants. Depending on their gum and bone health, a patient can have as little as two to four implants to secure the fit. A secure denture plate omits the need for adhesive pastes and powders, and the stability improves chewing, digestion and will not limit your diet choices.

At Warwick Dentist, Elisa S. Liberto, DMD, FAGD, we provide implant supported dentures because the benefits are life-changing. Dr. Liberto can determine if this is the right solution for you by examining your oral health. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to giving you the beautiful smiled you’ve always dreamed of.

How Important is a Local Dental Lab?

One of the smartest things a dentist can do, in terms of patient convenience and quality control, is to utilize a local dental lab. By using a lab nearby, or even having one onsite, there is quicker turnaround in fabricating dentures, implants and other appliances. There is also a greater control over the end product.

When a dentist has to send out to a lab that is in another city or state, the expense is greater and it becomes harder to make corrections. Communication may become inconvenient, and it is almost impossible to have a lab technician come into the office for consultations.

Quality Restorations

With a local or onsite lab, there can be ongoing communication, ensuring a higher degree of accuracy. It also makes it easier to track and maintain quality control. This is vitally important because patients depend on the appliances they receive and expect to get many years of use out of them.

A good dentist will place emphasis on the fit of dentures, crowns or caps, as well as the color. After all, any appliance needs to match the surrounding teeth in order to have a natural look and feel. Plus, if there are any adjustments that need to be made, they can be done much faster. 

When a dentist has a great rapport with their lab technicians and communication is effective, patients reap the benefits of great fitting and good looking restorations.

At Warwick Dental, our local lab to provides us with high quality dental appliances. Dr. Liberto’s patients have come to know and rely on the convenience and care that they receive at our family dental office. Contact our office if you want to know more about our restorations or are in need of a replacement or exam. We look forward to keeping your smile beautiful and strong.