Dental implants take time to heal and integrate with the jawbone. It’s just like any other surgery that improves your health and makes your life easier. But along with this, the question also arises, what can a patient with dentures do during this healing period? Does the patient need to live without teeth during the healing process? Is it feasible? With hundreds of questions bogging you down, you might feel stuck. Worry not! The good news is that you can use dentures when your dental implants are healing. However, you may need to abide by some important precautions to simplify the healing journey.
Why Should You Focus on Healing of Implants?
Your bones and gums take time to heal and bond with the new implants. This usually takes 3 to 9 months, based on your health, the number of implants, and your bone strength. The more stable your health is, the faster the healing time is. Do your best to minimize pressure around the implant area to not delaying the healing. That’s where the issue of wearing dentures arises. As you know, dentures pressure the jawbone to keep your mouth stable.
Wearing Dentures While Healing: Is It Safe?
Yes, in most cases, patients can wear dentures throughout the implant healing process. But you cannot expect to just put your old set of dentures back in and continue with your day.
Here’s what you need to remember:
- Temporary Dentures: Your dentist can make a customized temporary denture for you that fits more comfortably in the mouth and does not put pressure on the implant areas.
- Soft Liners can be placed in dentures to soften the gums and reduce irritation.
- Adjustments Are Normal: As swelling decreases or healing continues, your dentures may require minor adjustments for comfort and fit.
- Follow-Up Is Essential: Checkups will allow your dentist in Manvel to track healing and ensure the dentures are not harming you.
Wearing dentures during healing is possible only if you carefully adhere to your dentist’s instructions.
Long-Term Solution: Dentures and Implants Combined
Once your implants heal, you can opt for a sturdier denture than the previous one. This is commonly referred to as an implant-supported denture. It snaps into position with your implants and does not move around while speaking or eating. Patients often report that combining dentures and implants has made their daily lives more comfortable, improved chewing power, and increased self-esteem.
Things to Discuss With Your Dentist
Each case is unique. Discuss with your dentist:
- Your current denture fit and age
- How many implants are you receiving
- The shape and health of your jawbone
- Whether you’re receiving upper or lower implants (or both)
What’s the Best Next Step?
You don’t have to go toothless while recovering from dental implant surgery. You can wear dentures during the process, safely, if it’s done the right way. Work closely with your dental team to make sure your dentures fit well. Healing is short-term, but your smile will be permanent. So take care of it.