{"id":69,"date":"2023-09-21T10:55:00","date_gmt":"2023-09-21T10:55:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.downtownhoustondentist.com\/blog\/?p=69"},"modified":"2023-10-13T22:55:52","modified_gmt":"2023-10-13T22:55:52","slug":"can-implants-replace-existing-restorations","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.downtownhoustondentist.com\/blog\/2023\/09\/21\/can-implants-replace-existing-restorations\/","title":{"rendered":"Can Implants Replace Your Existing Restorations?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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If you\u2019ve lost any teeth, you may have a denture or dental bridge. That\u2019s only natural \u2013 those prosthetics do a good job of restoring smiles. However, perhaps you\u2019d prefer to have dental implants<\/a>. In that case, you may ask yourself a tricky question: Can implants replace existing restorations? As it turns out, the answer is a resounding \u201cYes!\u201d To learn more, let your Houston dentist give you the details. Learn how implants can replace your existing dentures or dental bridges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Implants *Can* Replace Existing Restorations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Replacing Dentures with Implants<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You may need a bone graft when switching from a denture to implants. After all, the former appliance doesn\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Following the (potential) bone graft, the dentist will proceed with standard implant surgery. First, they\u2019ll 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Replacing Dental Bridges with Implants<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Like the denture switch, replacing a bridge with implants could require a bone graft. Depending on how long they\u2019ve suffered tooth loss, the patient may have lost much jawbone density.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After the (possible) bone grafting, replacement is easy. Your dentist can place the implants where the bridge\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Benefits of Switching to Implants<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While it may seem like a hassle, switching from other restorations to implants is very worthwhile. It\u2019ll let you enjoy several great benefits, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n