I have had dentures for about a year now. I hated them at the beginning but my dentist assured me I’d get used to them. I’ve put in my time after a year. I still hate them. Do I have any other options? My dentist won’t listen to how miserable I am.
Danny
Dear Danny,
It is possible your dentist doesn’t have skill in the options you have and that is why he’s blowing off your concerns. Many dentists are afraid to tell their patients they can’t do what they’re wanting for fear they will lose trust in them. What he knows is dentures and that’s why he kept pushing you to keep them. In reality, it is always best to not pressure a dentist into doing a procedure he’s not skilled in. That rarely turns out the way the patient wants.
Implant Overdentures— a Great Alternative to Dentures
What you need to do is find a dentist who is skilled in placing dental implants. They can give you the procedure you need. Fortunately, you have only had dentures for a year, so you likely haven’t lost much bone structure. If you would have continued to wear dentures, eventually you would have lost so much of your jawbone you wouldn’t even be able to wear dentures any longer. This is known as facial collapse.
With dental implants, bone structure is both essential and preserved. Plus, your quality of life will be significantly improved. You’ll again be able to eat whatever you want. Your dentures will never move again. You’ll feel secure for the first time in a while.
Here’s how implant overdentures work. Your dentist (one who knows the procedure) will place four to six dental implants in your jawbone. Then after a period of healing when the bone has had time to integrate with the implants, your dentist will anchor your dentures to them.
This could be a real win-win for you. Not only will you get teeth you are thrilled with, but your smile can also be remade as well. You may have been happy with the way your dentures looked, but if you weren’t now is your chance to design a smile you’ll love.
This blog is brought to you by Decatur Dentists Drs. Drake and Wallace.