Permanent dentures are dentures that are fixed to your jawbone with dental implants, providing a stable and long-lasting solution for tooth replacement.
Understanding Permanent Dentures
Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums and can be easily removed by the wearer, permanent dentures offer a more secure and integrated fit. This stability comes from their attachment directly to the jawbone using dental implants. These implants act as artificial tooth roots, creating a strong foundation for the prosthetic teeth.
Attachment and Removability
The way permanent dentures are attached to dental implants can influence their removability:
- Dentist-Removable: Most often, when dentures are attached to dental implants as permanent fixtures, they can only be removed by a qualified dentist. This provides maximum stability and mimics the feel of natural teeth.
- Patient-Removable (with Connectors): In some cases, permanent dentures can also be attached to implants using specialized connectors. These connectors are designed to allow the patient to remove and reinsert the dentures themselves for cleaning and maintenance, offering a balance between stability and convenience.
Key Characteristics of Permanent Dentures
- Fixed Solution: They are not designed for daily removal by the patient (unless equipped with specific connectors).
- Implant-Supported: Their stability comes from being securely anchored to dental implants in the jawbone.
- Enhanced Stability: They offer superior stability compared to conventional removable dentures, reducing slippage and improving chewing efficiency.
- Long-Term: Considered a durable, long-term solution for missing teeth.
