For many people, the transition to dentures marks a significant chapter in their lives. While traditional dentures have restored smiles for generations, they often come with limitations that can affect daily confidence. Slipping, clicking, gum irritation, and dietary restrictions are common complaints that can make social interactions stressful. At Innovative Smiles, we believe you deserve better. We offer a superior solution that combines the comprehensive restoration of dentures with the rock-solid stability of dental implants. As your premier provider of Long Beach implant-supported dentures, we are dedicated to helping you eat, speak, and laugh with total freedom.
Our practice is built on the rigorous standards of Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness (EEAT). We understand that choosing a permanent solution for tooth loss is a major decision. It requires a dental team that not only possesses advanced surgical skill but also understands the artistry of smile design. We use state-of-the-art technology to plan and execute your treatment, ensuring results that look natural, feel comfortable, and last for years to come.
The Implant-Supported Difference
Traditional dentures rely on suction or adhesive pastes to stay in place on top of your gums. While effective for some, this method often lacks stability, especially for the lower jaw. Over time, the jawbone shrinks due to lack of stimulation, causing the denture to become loose and uncomfortable.
Implant-supported dentures change the game entirely. This innovative solution involves placing small titanium posts—dental implants—surgically into your jawbone. These implants act as artificial tooth roots. Once healed, your custom denture snaps securely onto these implants using special attachments.
The benefits of choosing Long Beach implant-supported dentures at Innovative Smiles include:
- Unmatched Stability: Say goodbye to embarrassing slips or clicks. Your teeth will stay firmly in place, no matter what you are doing.
- Restored Chewing Power: Unlike traditional dentures which restrict your diet, implant-supported options allow you to bite into apples, steak, and corn on the cob with confidence. You can enjoy all your favorite foods again.
- Bone Health Preservation: The implants stimulate the jawbone just like natural tooth roots, preventing the bone loss and facial collapse that often accompany traditional dentures.
- Improved Comfort: Because they are anchored to the bone, these dentures do not rub against the gums, significantly reducing sore spots and irritation.
- Natural Aesthetics: We design your prosthetic to complement your facial features perfectly. With no need for bulky plastic to cover the roof of your mouth (in upper dentures), you can taste your food better and feel more like yourself.
Our Comprehensive Approach to Your Smile
At Innovative Smiles, we don't just "install" teeth; we craft smiles that enhance your quality of life. Our process is thorough, transparent, and centered on your comfort.
Precision Planning with 3D Technology
We begin with a detailed consultation and 3D Cone Beam CT scan. This advanced imaging allows us to visualize your bone structure, nerves, and sinuses in three dimensions. We use this data to identify the optimal locations for your implants, ensuring safety and long-term success.
Expert Surgical Placement
Our skilled team places the implants using minimally invasive techniques. We prioritize your comfort at every stage, offering various sedation options to ensure you remain relaxed and pain-free during the procedure. In many cases, we can place the implants and attach a temporary set of teeth on the same day, so you never have to be without a smile.
Custom Prosthetic Design
While your implants heal and integrate with your jawbone, our dental lab artisans work to create your final denture. We take precise measurements and work with you to select the shade and shape of your new teeth. The result is a prosthetic that looks indistinguishable from natural teeth and functions seamlessly.
Are You A Candidate for Our Long Beach Implant Dentures?
Implant-supported dentures are an excellent option for most patients who are missing all their teeth in one or both arches. Ideal candidates generally have:
- Sufficient jawbone density to support the implants (though bone grafting can often help if bone loss has occurred).
- Good overall health to undergo a minor surgical procedure.
- Healthy gums free of periodontal disease.
- A commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene.
During your consultation, we will review your medical history and discuss your goals to determine if this life-changing treatment is the right path for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know that investing in implant dentistry raises important questions. Here are answers to five common inquiries we receive at our Long Beach office.
1. How many implants are needed to support a denture?
The number of implants varies depending on your specific anatomy and the type of prosthetic used. typically, a lower denture requires at least two to four implants for stability, while an upper denture usually requires at least four. Some systems, like All-on-4®, use four strategically angled implants to support a full arch of teeth. We will recommend the best configuration for your unique needs.
2. Is the procedure painful?
We take every measure to ensure your procedure is comfortable. We use effective local anesthesia to numb the surgical site completely. Additionally, we offer sedation dentistry options to help you relax or even sleep through the appointment. Most patients report that the post-operative discomfort is mild and can be managed easily with over-the-counter pain relievers.
3. How do I clean implant-supported dentures?
Maintenance depends on whether your denture is removable (snap-on) or fixed (screw-retained). Removable options should be taken out daily for cleaning, just like traditional dentures, and you should brush around the implant attachments in your mouth. Fixed options are brushed and flossed much like natural teeth, often using special floss threaders or water flossers to clean underneath the bridge. We will provide you with detailed hygiene instructions.
4. How long do the implants last?
Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, the titanium implant screws can last a lifetime. The denture prosthetic itself is subject to normal wear and tear and may need to be replaced or relined after 10 to 15 years, but the foundation remains solid.
5. What if I have been told I don't have enough bone?
Bone loss is common after tooth loss, but it doesn't necessarily disqualify you from getting implants. We offer bone grafting procedures to rebuild lost bone volume. Additionally, modern techniques like angled implants often allow us to utilize available bone without the need for extensive grafting. We encourage you to come in for a second opinion even if you have been told "no" in the past.
Schedule A Long Beach Denture Consultation
You don't have to settle for a smile that holds you back. Experience the freedom, comfort, and stability of Long Beach implant-supported dentures. At Innovative Smiles, we are ready to help you transform your life with a smile that stays put.
Contact our office today to schedule your consultation. Let's build a foundation for a happier, healthier you.
