As someone who’s lost teeth, you may already have a dental restoration. Perhaps it’s a denture or a high-quality bridge. Still, you might be considering a move to dental implants. In that case, you’re likely wondering if such a switch is possible. As it happens, yes – you can replace existing restorations with dental implants. Your local Garland dentist is even here to explain further. To that end, here’s a summary of how implants can replace your existing dentures or bridges.
Can Implants Replace Existing Prosthetics?
A dentist can switch an existing restoration with implants. However, the process differs based on whether the prior prosthetic is a denture or bridge. Consider those differences as listed below:
How Implants Replace Dentures
Firstly, going from dentures to implants may involve a bone graft. A denture can’t stop jawbone loss, so your jaw might be too weak for implant posts. With a bone graft, though, your jaw would gain the density needed to support them.
You can proceed with implant surgery once the (potential) bone graft is done. The dentist will first place the posts in the affected sockets. From there, said posts will fuse with your jaw over six months. After this fusion, a dental team will affix abutments and implant-supported dentures.
How Implants Replace Dental Bridges
As with dentures, a switch from bridges to implants could require a bone graft. A bridge patient may have lost jawbone density over the course of their life.
Following any needed bone grafting, replacement is easy. The dentist will simply place implants will where the bridge’s support teeth are. In doing so, they can keep the new implant bridge steady. Still, expect this process to take several weeks; labs need time to make the prosthetics.
Why Should You Switch to Implants?
After you’ve switched from dentures or bridges to implants, you’ll enjoy many unique upsides. These include:
- Lifelike Results – Compared to dentures or bridges, implants look and act more like natural teeth. Their fusion process and material ensure they blend seamlessly with your smile.
- Easier Eating – Since implants are fused to your jaw, they won’t slip or fall. That means they’re highly effective at helping you speak and eat!
- Long-Lasting Effects –While the average denture or bridge lasts 5-7 years, a regular implant can work for 15-20 years. Its lifespan can even surpass 30 years if it’s well-maintained.
As you can see, it’s possible (and good) to replace existing restorations with dental implants. Therefore, look into the option with your local dentist soon!
About the Practice
La Prada Family Dentistry is based in Garland, TX. Led by a talented group of dentists, our practice wants each patient to achieve the best smile possible. We thus provide high-quality and comprehensive dentistry, including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative services. Our team is also well-equipped to perform emergency dental work as needed. For more information or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (214)-473-5696.
