Dental implant dentures are usually held in place by a specially designed bar. The metal bar doesn't move because it's anchored in place by several dental implants. The retaining bar prevents the implant supported dentures from moving very much and solves a lot of the flopping around problems that many patients have as they get older and lose jaw bone. This not only assists the patient in chewing foods but it also has many positive social influences since the patient is no longer worried about his or her plates popping out in public.
An important part of the construction of dental implant dentures is excellent planning before anything in done. A diagnostic denture is constructed with the actual teeth which will be used later to make the prosthesis. The teeth are set in wax and are tried in the patient's mouth. The try in is done to be sure that the teeth look wonderful and that the patient is pleased with the shape, color and arrangement of the smile and bite. Once the patient is happy, a surgical guide is constructed using the diagnostic denture and the dental implants are surgically placed in the best positions to support this particular denture design.
Before dental implant dentures can be made, the dental implants are usually left sleeping for about 6 months so the jaw bone can grow onto them. The old denture can be adjusted and worn during this healing period. After healing a custom made metal retaining bar is made that accurately fits the dental implants. With the bar completed, the final removable prosthesis can then be carefully constructed based on the original diagnostic denture that was approved by the patient earlier.
Dental implant dentures snap into place with special clips by attaching to a retaining bar. The clips are strong enough to hold a prosthesis in place but weak enough for it to be removed and cleaned. The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. In addition to the dental implant surgery, Dr. Padolsky is also able to design, create, and place the dental work. This allows for one dentist to be in control of both phases of the implant reconstruction and often simplifies the decision making process. Patients can enjoy going to one office for all their care. If you would like to consult with Dr. Padolsky, make an appointment at 404-874-7428.