Can I Switch From Dentures to All-on-4^®?

Dentures have helped countless people around the world restore full arches of missing or damaged teeth with beautiful, functional results. Not only can they enhance the appearance of a patient’s smile, but they can also improve speaking and chewing function. That said, patients wearing traditional dentures do cite several common complaints, including:

• Gum irritation caused by denture movement
• Reduced chewing efficacy, leading to a more restricted diet
• Concerns about the dentures falling out while speaking
• The inconvenience associated with having to remove the dentures for frequent cleaning

Ultimately, while traditional dentures can restore the appearance of a full set of teeth, they may not provide the same level of functionality as natural teeth. Chewing and biting may become more challenging, leading many denture wearers to opt for softer, more processed foods that are easier to consume. Unfortunately, this shift often results in a diet lacking in the essential nutrients found in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, which can have lasting impacts on overall health and wellness.

Chafing and slippage along the gumline can also lead to irritation, inflammation, and even sores, which can cause discomfort and make it more difficult to maintain good oral hygiene. Furthermore, dentures must be regularly cleaned to prevent the buildup of bacteria in the mouth. Failure to adequately clean and care for a removable denture prosthesis can increase a patient’s risk for gum disease and other oral health concerns, ranging from bad breath to systemic infection.

Making the Switch to All-on-4^® Implant Dentures

Dr. Morton, a Clifton Park-area implant dentist, has helped countless patients struggling with their current removable dentures make the switch to implant-supported dentures—including many who were told they were not good candidates for implant restorations. By switching from a removable denture to an anchored denture, Dr. Morton’s patients often find themselves able to eat a more varied diet and experience greater confidence when speaking and laughing. Implant dentures also reduce or eliminate many of the concerns associated with gumline slippage and maintenance. Additionally, the dental implant posts used to support the denture stimulate the jaw, preventing bone and tissue loss.

As a certified provider of TeethXpress^®, Dr. Morton is often able to help patients obtain a new set of teeth in just one office visit. Using four to six dental implants per arch—sometimes called the All-on-4^® or All-on-6 technique—a custom denture can be fixed securely in place. In some cases, Dr. Morton may even be able to repurpose a patient’s existing denture prosthetic for the procedure, which can save time and money.

Dr. Morton’s patients typically report that All-on-4^® dental implants contribute to a higher overall quality of life. Not only can they eat and speak with greater confidence, but they are also able to spend less time and money on denture care, since implant dentures do not need to be removed for soaking and can instead be cared for much like natural teeth.

The first step towards making the switch to an implant denture is to schedule a consultation with a qualified provider. Dr. Morton is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and a certified TeethXpress^® provider, and he has the necessary skill and experience to deliver an exceptional result. Contact us today to learn more.