Multiple missing teeth or a wobbly denture can make simple tasks like eating and speaking difficult, but an implant-supported denture offers superior stability because the prosthetic attaches directly to the jaw.
At Carlin Dental, our family-oriented staff and dentist offer implant-supported dentures and strive to keep up with the latest dental techniques available.
Learn more about why so many Hendersonville, TN patients choose this advanced type of restorative dentistry...
What to Expect during Treatment
Dental Implant Placement
Dental implants resemble small titanium screws. After Dr. Carlin administers local anesthesia and possibly sedation, the implants are surgically placed in the jaw through a small incision that is made in the gums. In some cases, our dentist works in conjunction with an oral surgeon to ensure the best results. We will also precisely plan your surgery using information from a computed tomography (CT) scan.
For implant-supported dentures, fewer implants are placed than teeth. Typically, six to eight implants support an upper denture while four to five implants are placed to support a lower denture.
Immediate Recovery
General tips during your recovery period include avoiding hard or small foods such as seeds until your incisions heal, maintaining a healthy diet throughout your recovery, avoiding strenuous activity until Dr. Bryan Carlin advises resuming those activities, taking antibiotics and other medications as prescribed, taking care not to aggravate the surgical site until the incisions fully heal, and avoiding using tobacco products until you are fully recovered. Ideally, if you haven't already, now is the best time to quit for good.
Osseointegration Process
Once the implants are placed, the healing process (osseointegration) takes anywhere from three to six months. During this time, the implants will actually fuse with the surrounding bone tissue. Our dentist, Dr. Carlin, will provide you with further recovery guidelines that should be followed closely.
Second Visit
Toward the end of your healing process, a second office visit will be scheduled to evaluate the treatment site and place multiple small metal attachments called abutments. These connector pieces attach to the dental implants. Once the abutments are placed, a mold of your mouth will be made. This mold will be sent to a trusted laboratory that will manufacture your custom denture.
Denture Fabrication
Before your final denture is manufactured, Dr. Carlin may create a wax model so he can check the fit and appearance of the custom prosthetic. This step allows minor modifications to be made if needed. Once Dr. Carlin is fully satisfied with the look and placement of the denture, your custom prosthetic will be made from durable and natural-looking materials.
Once your restoration arrives at our office, a final visit will be scheduled to place your implant-supported denture. This permanent restoration phase is the most exciting part of the restorative dentistry procedure. This is the final step where Dr. Carlin places your custom denture at our Hendersonville dental office. Once this procedure is complete, you can enjoy all the benefits of this unique restoration.
Call Carlin Dental Today to Schedule Your Consultation
Whether you are unhappy with your traditional dentures or want to replace missing teeth, Dr. Carlin and his team can create a custom treatment plan suited to your needs. Carlin Dental has served the Madison and Hendersonville, TN, communities for decades.
To learn more about dentures or our other restorative dentistry options, schedule an appointment online or call our office at:
(615) 431-2723
What Are the Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures?
Traditional dentures are prone to slipping, especially while eating, speaking, or other routine daily activities. Implant-supported dentures are unique in that they attach directly to your jaw, meaning your dentures will function like natural teeth. Once your implant-retained dentures are placed, you will never experience embarrassing wobbling or slipping false teeth that detract from your confidence.
Missing teeth are more than a cosmetic concern. The loss of even one tooth eventually leads to jawbone atrophy. This loss of bone density can cause the cheeks to appear sunken-in. Dental implants replace missing tooth roots. Once your implant-supported denture is placed at our Hendersonville dental practice, the titanium posts will stimulate bone growth in your jaw every time you eat.
Dentures that are removable require regular maintenance and replacement every few years. Over time, the loss of jawbone density may mean that the shape of your mouth changes, which can require continual revision of your traditional dentures. Dental implants offer a permanent solution to tooth loss because the metal posts are designed to last a lifetime, leading to fewer denture revisions.
Abby M.
May 2019
I was greeted with such kindness from the entire staff! Dr.Carlin was fantastic. I'd recommend Dr.Carlin and his staff to anyone looking for a dentist. So very pleased with my experience today!
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Anne B.
2018
I havr spent way too much time in dental chairs and it gives me a very good perspective on dentists. Dr Carlin and his crew are EXCELLENT. Professional, thorough, gentle and caring only begin the praise.
View On GoogleAre You a Candidate for Implant-Supported Dentures?
Individuals who are missing an entire arch of teeth are often good candidates for dental implants and this type of restoration. If you are missing several consecutive teeth but still have one or more strong natural teeth remaining, you may be a better candidate for a partial denture or dental bridge.
Our office offers removable and implant-retained partial dentures. Individuals who are planning to undergo multiple tooth extractions may also be a good candidate for this restorative treatment.
Many of our patients report that their implant-supported denture functions and feels just like their natural teeth. If it has been years since you were able to chew a steak or another favorite dish with confidence, dental implants can restore your quality of life.
Candidates for implant-supported dentures often:
Are missing an entire dental arch of one or both sets of teeth.
Have multiple teeth that cannot be saved and require extraction.
Are dissatisfied with the performance of their removable dentures.
Want to restore superior chewing function and improved jaw health.
In order to receive one or more dental implants, patients must have adequate bone density in their jaw. During your consultation at our Hendersonville dental practice, Dr. Carlin will evaluate your oral and general health to determine your candidacy for dental implant placement. If you are found to be lacking adequate bone density, bone graft or sinus lift surgery can help you restore candidacy for implants. As with any oral surgery, candidates should be free of any conditions that can complicate surgery and recovery. Tobacco use is a known risk factor for dental implant failure.
Are Implant-Supported Dentures Worth the Investment of Time and Money?
The treatment timeline for implant-retained dentures ranges from three months to a year or longer, and the cost of this unique restoration can easily reach several thousand dollars. It is worth noting that the majority of our Hendersonville patients report high satisfaction with the look and feel of their implant-retained dentures.
A recent study by the National Institutes of Health found that a majority (81 percent) of poll respondents experienced a “high chewing comfort.” A further 94 percent of adults who underwent this procedure reported being satisfied with the aesthetic aspects of their implant restorations.
When weighing which restorative treatment is right for you, the oral health benefits of dental implants should also be considered. Most notably, dental implants are the only treatment that aids in preventing jawbone atrophy. We accept CareCredit® financing so patients can comfortably invest in the highest standard of care.
Susan M.
October 2019
I've been coming to Dr. Carlin for over 20 years and have gotten my family to come as well. The staff is so friendly and patient. Even though I moved an hour and a half away, I still make the drive because I don't trust anyone else! Highly recommend this dental office.
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Amanda P.
July 2019
I absolutely love Dr Carlin and his staff! They always go above and beyond to make sure that my kids and I have the best dental experience. When my son was a baby Tina would clean my teeth and the other staff would push him in a stroller so he stayed calm and I could stay calm as well! They are truly a caring and spectacular group!!
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