Fixed Hybrid Dentures and Restorations: Are They for Me?
If you're missing many teeth, you know just how self-conscious that can make you feel. You may feel hesitant laughing, smiling, or speaking, even around people whom you have known for years. The team at Advanced Dentistry of Blakeney has helped countless people throughout Charlotte smile with confidence again, even after they have lost all of their teeth.
There are plenty of effective restorative dentistry treatments for missing teeth. While removable and fixed dentures are common, there is also an excellent middle ground to consider: hybrid fixed dentures. Let's go over these right now.
Removable Dentures and Fixed Dentures
Removable dentures are the traditional dentures that you get from a dentist, which brace around the dental arch when you are missing many of your teeth. These dentures have a tendency to slip or fall out, sometimes at inopportune times, like when you're eating or speaking.
Fixed dentures refer to dentures that are anchored in place with dental implants, which are artificial tooth roots surgically embedded into the jawbone and gum tissue of your mouth. These kinds of dentures are very secure.
What "Hybrid" Means in This Case
A hybrid fixed denture is a removable denture that is fixed in place using a series of dental implants, but the denture itself is also removable. This type of procedure splits the different between removable appliances and fixed appliances while still offering the benefits of dental implant support. The denture itself is screwed into place again an implant supported housing in order to remain stable and secure.
Advantages and Disadvantages of a Fixed Hybrid Denture
Fixed hybrid dentures are more affordable than traditional implant-supported dentures, and the overall results of treatment are comparable.
While the savings is helpful, keep in ind that the fixed hybrid denture will need to be removed (i.e., unscrewed) during regular hygiene and maintenance.
How Many Dental Implants Are Necessary?
Most fixed hybrid dentures are able to be supported with just four dental implants. More may be placed depending on the needs of the patient. The overall number of dental implants required will be discussed during the consultation process.
Ideal Candidates for Fixed Hybrid Dentures
The best candidates for fixed hybrid dentures are people who are missing most of their teeth. They should be in good overall health and have sufficient jawbone and gum tissue density remaining to support dental implants while they are in place.
Patients should be fully aware of all risks and benefits associated with treatments as this provides realistic expectations for treatment and the results achieved.
Are Fixed Hybrid Dentures Right for Me?
Fixed hybrid dentures are just one of many options out there to address substantial tooth loss. During a consultation at our practice, we will be able to assess the nature and extent of your tooth loss and provide you with information on all of your treatment options. We will help you make the best choices based on your health concerns as well as you financial concerns.
Contact Advanced Dentistry of Blakeney
For more information about your treatment options for tooth loss and other dental health issues, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. Dr. John M. Pinnix and Dr. George A. Betancourt will work with you to help ensure the best results possible.
