Dentures: Problems & Solutions with Implants & LANAP
Dentures: Common problems
Denture wearers may encounter several common problems. A poor fit can cause discomfort, irritation or sores in the mouth. Dentures can become loose over time as gums and bone shape changes. This may cause slippage when eating or speaking. It can also cause difficulty in chewing certain food. Dentures need to be cleaned properly.
Neglecting these routines can lead to plaque buildup and bad breath. Some people may also experience difficulty speaking or excessive salivation when adjusting to dentures. It is important to have regular dental checkups to ensure that dentures fit properly and to catch any problems early.
1. Loose Dentures and Poor Fit Dentures
Poor fit is one of the biggest problems that denture wearers face. The jawbone and the gum tissue can alter over time, especially following tooth loss. Dentures can become loose as these tissues shrink and shift. Loose dentures can shift around when you speak or eat, which can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. A poorly fitted denture can cause pressure sores to develop on the gums, leading to pain and irritation. This makes it uncomfortable to wear for extended periods, and in severe cases, it can even affect your ability to enjoy meals or speak clearly. Regular dental check-ups and adjustments are necessary to maintain a proper fit. However, if adjustments aren't enough, dental implants may provide a more stable, long-term solution, ensuring the dentures remain secure.
Solution: Regular adjustments and check-ups are necessary to maintain a good fit. Dentists may reline dentures for a better fit, but it is usually a temporary fix. Dental implants are a permanent solution that can anchor dentures and eliminate the problem of slipping dentures.
2. Problems with chewing certain foods
Dentures can make it difficult to eat certain foods, particularly those that are sticky, hard, or require more force to chew. Dentures can slip and cause discomfort or make it hard to chew efficiently. This can reduce the ability to enjoy food and even lead to poor nutrition if important food groups are avoided. The lack of stability can also result in frustration during social meals.
Solution: Soft food can be helpful during the adjustment phase, but implant-supported dentures offer a more reliable and stable solution. Dental implants act as artificial roots, providing a solid foundation for chewing and biting, allowing you to enjoy a wider variety of foods without worry.
3. Sore Spots and Irritation
Dentures that do not fit correctly or move around can cause irritation and sores on the gums. Over time, this constant friction can lead to painful ulcers and make it difficult for the patient to wear dentures for long periods. Untreated sores may worsen, increasing the chances of infection or gum disease.
Solution: Implant-supported dentures are more stable and comfortable than denture adjustments. They prevent movement. The LANAP procedure (Laser Assisted New Attachment) is an effective treatment option for patients suffering from gum irritation or periodontal diseases. LANAP is a laser-based procedure that removes diseased tissue and promotes healing. It also reduces gum inflammation to create a healthier denture environment. This minimally invasive procedure can maintain gum health and make dentures more comfortable.
4. Excessive saliva production
Excessive saliva production is a common issue for new denture users. As the mouth adapts to the new foreign object, many denture users experience excessive salivation. This issue usually resolves itself after a few days or weeks as the body adjusts, but it can still be inconvenient and uncomfortable in the meantime. Excessive saliva can interfere with speaking, eating, and even social interactions.
Solution: Patience will be key in getting used to dentures. Staying hydrated and frequently swallowing can help you manage saliva production. For a more permanent solution, dental implants can eliminate this issue, as they feel more natural and integrate seamlessly into the mouth. They reduce the body's overreaction to a foreign object and restore normal saliva levels.
5. Facial Collapse and Bone Loss
Bone loss in the jaw is one of the biggest problems with traditional dentures. Without the stimulation that teeth provide, the jawbone starts to shrink or resorb over time. This can cause changes in facial structure and a collapsed or sunken appearance. Dentures are helpful but do not stimulate the jawbone to keep it healthy.
Solution: Dental Implants are the best solution to stop bone loss. Implants stimulate the jawbone just like natural teeth, preserving the bone and preventing facial collapse. Implant-supported full-mouth restorations or dentures can prevent further bone loss while providing a more natural and secure fit.
6. Oral Hygiene and Infections
Incorrect denture cleaning may lead to gum infections and fungal conditions such as oral thrush. If dentures are not cleaned properly, they can collect bacteria and food particles that can negatively impact oral health.
Solution: Denture users should clean and remove their dentures daily, as well as their tongue and gums, to maintain good oral hygiene. Implant-supported dentures are easier to maintain since they're anchored securely and don't need to be taken out daily. Patients with periodontal disease can benefit from LANAP or Laser-Assisted New Attachment procedures.
Dental Implants & Lanap at Smile Savers Dentistry
Modern dentistry has advanced denture solutions to address the many problems associated with them. Smile Savers Dentistry’s cutting-edge treatments, LANAP, and dental implants can improve patient outcomes.
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Dental Implants
SCHEDULE A DENTAL IMPLANT CONSULTATIONDental implants are titanium posts that are surgically implanted into the jawbone. They act as artificial roots. After the implant has integrated with the bone, you can attach a denture, dental bridge, or crown to the implant for a natural-looking, stable replacement of missing teeth. Implants fuse with the jawbone, unlike dentures that rest on the gums. This provides superior stability and prevents bone loss.
- Benefits of dental implants:
- Maintain jaw health and prevent bone resorption.
- Give a long-lasting, secure solution to missing teeth.
- Allow your patients to speak, eat, and smile confidently.
- Comfortable alternative to traditional dentures
- Reduce the need for adhesives and relining.
Bone grafting is sometimes performed on those with bone loss to allow the placement of implants. Implant-supported dentures or All-on-4 can be a long-term, stable alternative to traditional dentures.
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LANAP
SCHEDULE A LANAP APPOINTMENTPatients with periodontal disease can benefit from LANAP's minimally invasive treatment. LANAP uses a specialized, noninvasive laser to remove bacteria and diseased tissue from the gums. The laser can also help stimulate bone regeneration and prevent bone loss due to gum disease.
Benefits of LANAP:
- The surgery is less invasive than traditional surgery and, therefore, less painful.
- Promotes tissue and bone regeneration
- Healing time is faster with fewer complications.
- Patients with gum disease can benefit from dental implants.
Dentures can be an effective way to replace missing teeth. However, they are not without their challenges. These include issues with comfort, functionality, and oral health. Dental implants and LANAP are more permanent solutions. Dental implants are a natural-feeling, secure replacement for missing teeth. They prevent bone loss and improve overall quality of life. LANAP can treat gum disease and can support the placement of implants. This approach improves oral health in denture wearers.
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Smile Savers is accepting new patients however, we DO NOT accept HMO's, Medicaid, or other State Insurance Programs. If you require financial assistance please contact our office regarding our membership plan and financing options.
Dentures: Problems & Solutions with Implants & LANAP
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