Can Implants Replace Your Existing Restorations?

If you’ve lost any teeth, you may have a denture or dental bridge. That’s only natural – those prosthetics do a good job of restoring smiles. However, perhaps you’d prefer to have dental implants. In that case, you may ask yourself a tricky question: Can implants replace existing restorations? As it turns out, the answer is a resounding “Yes!” To learn more, let your Houston dentist give you the details. Learn how implants can replace your existing dentures or dental bridges.

Implants *Can* Replace Existing Restorations

Even if you already have a dental restoration, you can switch to implants. That said, how the replacement works will depend on whether you have a denture or dental bridge. Consider the differing processes as listed below:

Replacing Dentures with Implants

You may need a bone graft when switching from a denture to implants. After all, the former appliance doesn’t stop the effects of tooth loss; your jawbone may have lost a sizable amount of bone density. As such, a bone graft may be necessary so your jaw can handle implants.

Following the (potential) bone graft, the dentist will proceed with standard implant surgery. First, they’ll place the posts in the affected sockets. The next step is to wait six months for the posts to fuse with your jaw. From there, your dental team will affix abutments and place implant-supported dentures.

Replacing Dental Bridges with Implants

Like the denture switch, replacing a bridge with implants could require a bone graft. Depending on how long they’ve suffered tooth loss, the patient may have lost much jawbone density.

After the (possible) bone grafting, replacement is easy. Your dentist can place the implants where the bridge’s current support teeth are. With this approach, the new implant bridge will be steady. Still, expect this process to take some weeks; a lab needs time to make the final prosthetics.

The Benefits of Switching to Implants

While it may seem like a hassle, switching from other restorations to implants is very worthwhile. It’ll let you enjoy several great benefits, including:

• Lifelike Results – Dentures and dental bridges are nice, but implants look and act more like natural teeth. Their fusion process and material let them blend seamlessly with their surroundings.
• Better Eating – Because implants fuse with your jaw, they help restore your bite force. In other words, you can count on the prosthetics to help you eat tough foods again!
• Long-Lasting Effects – A normal implant can work for 15-20 years, longer than a denture or bridge’s 5-7 years. Even better, a well-maintained one can have a lifespan of 30 years or more.

So, can implants replace existing restorations? Absolutely – see for yourself by talking with your local dental provider soon!

About the Practice

Downtown Houston Dental is based in Houston, TX. Led by Dr. Chris Johnson, our practice focuses on providing truly comprehensive dental care. To that end, we offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative services, as well as emergency dentistry options. Our team could easily provide you with high-quality implants and other tooth replacements. For more information or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (713)-229-8100.