What Should You Choose for Denture Replacement Implants?

Head Dentist Lee Jang-wook

Hello.

A place that does its best

for a healthy smile

This is Etoile Seoul Dental Clinic.

Today, we’d like to talk about the inconvenience many people experience with dentures and their alternatives. Perhaps some of you reading this are using dentures and struggling with the discomfort of them wobbling every time you eat, or are hesitating because the cost of full-mouth implants feels burdensome.

We hope the information about denture replacement implants will be practically helpful to you.

We take responsibility for your dental health.

Why are dentures inconvenient?

Among people who have used dentures for a long time, we often hear that the dentures move every time they eat, making it difficult to chew properly. Some also say they feel unstable when speaking, keep covering their mouths with their hands, and cannot even think about eating meat when dining with family, so they end up seeking only soft foods and gradually find meal times less enjoyable.

Many people look into full-mouth implants but hesitate because of the cost burden and the concern that multiple visits are required. In addition, when using dentures, pressure is placed on the gums, and the jawbone gradually resorbs, causing the dentures to loosen and making frequent adjustments necessary.

We would like to introduce one of the various alternatives for those experiencing these inconveniences.

What is a full-arch implant?

When many people hear the term denture replacement implant for the first time, they wonder how it differs from regular implants. This is also called a full-arch implant, and instead of placing implants one by one for every tooth, it is a method that restores the entire upper or lower jaw using only about 4 to 6 implants.

Just as several pillars support a sturdy bridge, even a small number of implants can be expected to restore the function of the entire dentition. Whereas ordinary dentures rest on the gums, full-arch implants are fixed to the jawbone, so they can provide improved chewing function compared with dentures.

Depending on the individual, it may be possible to restore chewing power close to that of natural teeth. In particular, there is less concern about them coming out like dentures, and they move less in the mouth, making them more stable. Another advantage is that, in terms of cost, they can be a more economical choice than full-mouth implants.

What is the process like?

First, a precise diagnosis is made through 3D CT imaging and oral scanning. At this stage, the condition of the jawbone, the location of the nerves, and the distribution of blood vessels are examined in detail.

At Etoile Seoul Dental Clinic, we use a 3D navigation system to perform a computer-based mock surgery for denture replacement implants first. This allows us to plan the placement location and angle of the implants in advance, and the actual surgery can then be performed according to that plan.

Surgery usually takes about 2 to 3 hours and is performed without incision, aiming to reduce discomfort. In many cases, a temporary prosthesis can be placed on the day of surgery, minimizing the time spent without teeth. Generally, after about one month, depending on the condition of the gums, placement of the permanent prosthesis can be considered. During this period, the gums undergo a stabilization process so they can integrate well with the implants.

How should it be cared for?

After receiving denture replacement implants, care is very important. Just like caring for natural teeth, you should brush properly every day and keep the area around the implants clean using dental floss or interdental brushes.

Implants, like teeth, can be prone to gingivitis or periodontitis, so regular checkups are necessary. We recommend regular checkups once every six months, during which the condition of the implants and the health of the surrounding gums are checked, and scaling is performed if needed.

As for food, it is best to avoid hard or chewy foods in the early stage after the temporary prosthesis is placed, but after the permanent prosthesis is placed, most foods can likely be eaten more freely. However, there may be differences depending on the individual condition of the gums and the degree of recovery, so it is best to adjust your diet according to the guidance of the medical team in charge.

What materials are used?

At Etoile Seoul Dental Clinic, we use pink porcelain and zirconia materials to naturally recreate the appearance of your own gums and teeth. Pink porcelain naturally expresses the color of the gums and enhances aesthetics, while zirconia is a material with excellent strength and a color similar to that of natural teeth.

The color and shape of the prosthesis are made in consideration of the individual’s face shape, gum color, and the color of existing teeth. Through this, a natural appearance like one’s original teeth can be expected rather than an artificial look.

In addition, we provide free treatment related to full-arch cases within 3 years so that visitors can receive care comfortably. Through regular checkups and management, we aim to help maintain the implants in good health for a long time.

Who is this method suitable for?

Over many years of clinical experience, whenever I see people suffering from the discomfort of dentures, I feel sorry. There is no need to endure discomfort just because of age or because the cost feels burdensome.

Full-arch implants can be a more economical yet effective option than full-mouth implants. In particular, this is a method worth considering for people who are older or have difficulty making multiple visits due to limited mobility.

It may also be considered even if you have conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, as long as they are well controlled. However, since whether it can be applied depends on the individual’s health status and jawbone condition, a detailed examination and consultation must come first.

What matters most is meeting medical staff with proper diagnosis and clinical experience. If you receive consultation at a place equipped with devices such as 3D navigation and a systematic aftercare system, you may be able to consider the procedure more comfortably.

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Denture replacement implants are one option to consider for people experiencing the inconvenience of dentures. However, as with all medical procedures, suitability may vary depending on the individual’s oral condition and health status.

Therefore, it is important to carefully determine whether this is the right option for you through sufficient consultation and examination. We hope you can move beyond the discomfort of dentures and regain a more comfortable daily life.

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