If you're missing multiple or all of your teeth and seeking solutions to reclaim your smile, chewing ability, and overall quality of life, Acre Wood Dental in Temple, TX provides comprehensive denture options. While traditional dentures have historically been a common choice, modern dental technology has allowed us to offer stronger, more comfortable alternatives, particularly when integrated with dental implants.
Our Dentures Process
It's important to note our approach to removable dentures at Acre Wood Dental. While traditional removable full or partial dentures are available as options elsewhere, at Acre Wood Dental, we generally offer removable dentures as a temporary option only, specifically when you are undergoing other restorative work.
For instance, if you are having a dental implant placed and need a temporary solution while the implant heals before receiving its permanent restoration (like a dental crown or bridge), we might provide a "flipper" or immediate removable denture. This ensures you maintain your appearance and some functionality during the healing period. However, we do not offer removable dentures as a final, long-term solution for tooth replacement, as our focus is on providing our patients with the most stable, functional, and health-preserving options available, which are typically implant-supported solutions.
Implant-Supported Dentures
For patients who are experiencing extensive tooth loss, implant-supported dentures at Acre Wood Dental in Temple offer a superior solution compared to traditional removable dentures, providing enhanced stability, comfort, and functionality. Instead of resting solely on your gums, these dentures are securely anchored by dental implants, acting like artificial tooth roots embedded in your jawbone. This innovative approach prevents the common issues associated with conventional dentures, such as slipping, irritation, and difficulty eating certain foods.
We offer two primary types of implant-supported dentures:
All-on-5 Implant System
The All-on-5 implant system is a revolutionary solution for replacing an entire arch of teeth (either upper or lower) with a fixed, non-removable prosthesis. This technique utilizes five strong, strategically placed dental implants in the jawbone. This implant technique maximizes contact with existing bone and often eliminates the need for bone grafting, even in cases where bone density is reduced. A key advantage of All-on-5 is the possibility of receiving a temporary, functional set of teeth on the very same day as your implant surgery. Once the implants have fully integrated with your bone, a custom-crafted, permanent denture is securely attached. All-on- provides exceptional stability, allowing you to chew with significantly more force, speak clearly, and maintain a natural facial appearance, as it prevents jawbone deterioration. Since these dentures are fixed, they are cared for much like natural teeth with regular brushing and flossing.
Implant-Retained Dentures
Implant-retained dentures, also known as "overdentures," offer a more stable and comfortable alternative to traditional removable dentures. This option involves placing a smaller number of dental implants (typically two to four per arch for the lower jaw, often more for the upper jaw) into your jawbone. Once the implants heal and integrate, special attachments (like ball or bar connectors) are placed on them.
Your custom-made denture then "snaps" or clips onto these attachments, providing a secure fit that prevents slipping and improves chewing efficiency. The main distinction of implant-retained dentures compared to All-on-5 is that they are still removable, allowing you to take them out for daily cleaning and maintenance. This can be a beneficial feature for patients who prefer the ability to remove their denture for cleaning. While not as rigidly fixed as All-on-5, implant-retained dentures dramatically enhance comfort and confidence over conventional dentures.
Learn More at Your Dentures Consultation
If you're considering your options for tooth replacement, whether you're interested in the advanced stability and aesthetics of zirconia implant dentures or need a temporary solution during other restorative procedures, we invite you to schedule a consultation at Acre Wood Dental in Temple. Our experienced team will thoroughly assess your unique needs, discuss all suitable options, and help you choose the best path to a healthy, confident smile. Call us today to take the next step.