Can You Replace Prior Restorations with Dental Implants?

If you’ve ever suffered tooth loss, you likely know about dental implants. (That’s only natural – these prosthetics are excellent replacement teeth!) Still, you might think they’re off-limits now that you have dentures or bridges. Truthfully, though, you can replace existing restorations with dental implants. It’s just a matter of receiving the proper procedures. In fact, your local Trophy Club dentist can even give you the details. To that end, here’s how implants can replace your existing dentures or bridges.

IMPLANTS CAN REPLACE EXISTING RESTORATIONS?

Yes, dentists can replace your prior restorations with implants. This switch, though, differs based on whether you have dentures or bridges. Find out how by considering the processes below:

REPLACING DENTURES WITH IMPLANTS

Before switching from dentures to implants, you may need a bone graft. After all, you’ve likely lost bone tissue from extended denture use. That means grafting would strengthen your jaw enough to receive the implant posts.

Following the potential bone graft, implant surgery is straightforward. Your dentist will start by placing the posts in the appropriate jaw sockets. From there, the implants will slowly fuse with your jaw over six months. When that fusion finishes, the dental team affixes abutments and implant-supported dentures.

REPLACING DENTAL BRIDGES WITH IMPLANTS

Like dentures, dental bridges can’t prevent jawbone loss. Therefore, a bridge patient may require bone grafting before implant surgery.

Assuming the (possible) bone graft goes well, replacement should be easy. Implants will simply be placed where a bridge’s support teeth are. That way, they can keep the new implant bridge steady and secure. (Labs take time to make the final prosthetics, though, so expect treatment to take several weeks.)

WHY SWITCH TO DENTAL IMPLANTS?

If you switch from dentures or bridges to implants, you’ll experience many unique benefits. These typically include the following:

A Beautiful Smile – Implants look and behave like natural teeth, so most people won’t even know you have them. Their fusion process and porcelain material ensure they blend with the rest of your smile.

Youthful Looks – Because implants stimulate your jawbone, they keep your jaw from gradually eroding. That means they’ll prevent facial collapse and help your face look young.

Long-Lasting Results –Dentures and bridges only last 5-7 years on average, while the typical implant can work for 15-20 years. It can even last for 30 years or more if well-maintained!

Ultimately, you can replace existing restorations with dental implants. That being the case, talk to your dental provider about a possible switch!

ABOUT THE PRACTICE

Genuine Smiles of Trophy Club is based in Trophy Club, TX. Led by Dr. Alexander Wenner, our practice gives each patient truly personalized dentistry. To that end, we perform preventive, cosmetic, and restorative services, as well as emergency dental care. Our office also takes pride in being a certified provider of Invisalign® clear aligners. For more information or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (817)-646-6544.