If I already have dentures, can I improve them with dental implants?

Yes, even if you have worn dentures before without the assistance of dental implants, you may be a candidate for improving your denture's retention and bone stability with implants!  Depending on the number of implants placed, it may even be possible to create a prosthesis that no longer covers the roof of your mouth and stays fixed in place (not needing to be removed at night).  Call us to schedule a consult with Dr. Barnes to determine if you are a good candidate for an implant-supported denture.  If your existing denture is in good condition and fits well, it may even be possible to retrofit your denture to accommodate new implants. 

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How long do dentures last?

On average, a new denture will last approximately 7-9 years with routine maintenance and care. The bones, gums, and facial structure change shape and dimension ​over time, a process that happens to everyone (although dental implants can significantly slow down the rate at which it occurs).  Because of this, your mouth's support under and around the denture will change.  Also, the surfaces of denture teeth slowly wear down, which over time can affect the height and balance of your bite.  Eventually these changes will require replacement with a new denture prosthetic.  Implants can help slow and reduce the rate of bone change.  

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What are dentures made of?  

Removable dentures are traditionally made from durable acrylic, although porcelain and zirconia are options that increase wear resistance and greatly enhance the appearance of denture teeth.

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Do all dentures look the same?  

Modern materials and technologies available for denture fabrication mean that you can have everyone fooled into thinking you have your own natural teeth.  Dentures are custom-made and can be individually tailored—which means that at Berkshire Dental Arts, Dr. Barnes will take extra time with you to make your new smile harmonious with the size and shape of your face, and appear natural and unique (not cookie-cutter).  She can even work with you to reproduce smile features from a photo.

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How long does it take to make a new denture?

Creating a denture requires several steps over multiple visits.  Dr. Barnes will take several impressions of your mouth, and confirm and try-in the individual steps in the fabrication process.   Adjunctive procedures like extractions, modification of the bone or gums, or healing time for implants can also extend the time before your denture is complete.  In some situations where extractions or surgery are required, Dr. Barnes may need to make an "immediate denture" (which can be made rapidly) to wear after surgery that must be replaced later by your permanent denture when healing is complete.

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Can I eat whatever I want?

When dental implants are used with dentures, we can restore up to 90% of the original biting force that you had with your own natural teeth.  Although conventional dentures (without implant attachments) can improve eating function when multiple teeth are missing, dentures are a replacement for "no teeth," not "replacement teeth."  This means that there will be a learning curve for new denture wearers.  It also means your bite will not be as strong as what natural teeth provide.  Dr. Barnes will discuss with you important differences between your natural teeth and your dentures.  

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Do dentures hurt?

After healing from extractions or surgeries is complete and initial adjustment are made, dentures should be very comfortable.  Sometimes it may be necessary to have Dr. Barnes make adjustments for your comfort—generally a simple and quick process.  This can be particularly true for new dentures.