A lucky few feel comfortable when they wear their dentures. Every other denture wearer is left to contend with slippage, wobbling, discomfort and in many cases, pain.
This is because without teeth, the underlying bone deteriorates and the denture no longer fits. The lips are working so hard to keep the denture in place, a natural smile doesn’t come naturally at all.
A technological break-through now available with some dental practices is denture stabilization also known as Single Day Implants. The procedure stabilizes the existing lower denture by anchoring it into place using mini dental implants or MDIs.
The entire proceedure can be completed in a matter of hours… with results that can be quite stunning. Patients can hardly believe the improvement in their abilities to eat, speak, laugh and smile.
Denture Stabilization – What is It?
Denture stabilization is achieved through the use of an MDI or Mini Dental Implant. The procedure can stabilize a patient’s denture or other prosthetic in just a few hours.
The 1.8 mm width (the same as a wooden toothpick) means less time in surgery to place the implants. It also provides immediate and on-going stabilization for those who can’t tolerate full size conventional implants.
The patient is anesthetized and a special drill is used to create a place for each implant. In the average denture stabilization case, there are six implants.
Each of the tiny implants is held by a small finger driver that inserts the implant and also acts as a screw driver. Next, a winged wrench further tightens the implant.
Final Stabilization Steps
A ratchet wrench firmly seats the implants into place, assuring an accurate and enduring fit.
Retrofitting the Denture
Yes, in many cases, patients do not require brand new dentures. New or revised dentures are recommended only when dictated by changes in the patient’s oral health.
The patient’s existing denture is marked to show the placement of the implants and wells are drilled at each of those points at the dental lab.
Each well will contain a metal housing that will allow the denture to snap on and off each implant.
The Completed Mini Implant Procedure
The retrofitted denture is snapped into place and the patient is ready to have dinner the same evening.
Not sure if you are a candidate?
Contact a dental practice in your area that provides this procedure to learn more about denture stabilization and mini implants and how they can be implemented for a customized treatent plan.