Implant treatment involves inserting a screw-shaped artificial structure made of special metal into the jawbone to serve as a pillar, similar to a natural tooth root, and then creating a new artificial tooth on top. It can be considered in cases of tooth loss due to periodontal disease, cavities, trauma, or other reasons. Made with a structure similar to natural teeth, it can be used like one's own teeth without the discomfort of traditional dentures or reduced chewing ability. However, because it is more vulnerable to inflammation or trauma than natural teeth or periodontal tissues, thorough oral hygiene management is necessary for long-term use.

If there are many missing teeth and the bone health is poor, making it impossible to place as many implants as needed, implant-supported dentures can be considered. Implant-supported dentures involve placing about 2 to 4 implants to support a denture that is attached to the implants.

There are two main methods for implant-supported denture treatment. First, creating implants in the shape of teeth and attaching the partial denture's hook to the implant to make the denture. Second, not shaping the implant like teeth but connecting a retention device to insert into the denture. In the second method, the implant is hidden inside the denture and not visible from the outside. The retention devices used vary, including snap buttons, magnets, double tubes, clips, and others.

Unlike natural teeth, implants lack a cushioning effect, which can lead to complications such as screw loosening, screw fracture, or bone loss over time. Professor An Su-jin of the Department of Prosthodontics at Gangdong Kyunghee University Hospital explained, "Implants are fused directly with the alveolar bone, whereas natural teeth are connected via the periodontal ligament. When external impact is applied, implants do not have a cushioning effect, so if the load is similar to that on natural teeth, it can cause more complications in the implant."

 

Considering implant dentures due to many missing teeth and weak bones

 

Frequent loosening of implant screws occurs when the prosthetic becomes loose after long-term use, often due to damage to the adhesive material or the screw coming loose, causing the prosthesis to wobble. In this case, you should visit the hospital as soon as possible.

One of the problems with implants is that it is difficult for patients to recognize complications early on. Many visit the hospital only after continuing to eat without realizing that the screw has come loose and has fallen out completely, or in more severe cases, after significant bone loss around the implant has occurred, making treatment difficult. The best way to prevent this is through regular check-ups to ensure that the prosthesis and surrounding soft tissues are in good condition.

 

Both implants and implant dentures require proper maintenance and care. Implant dentures, like traditional dentures, should be removed from the mouth for cleaning, and the natural teeth or implants in the mouth should be brushed with a toothbrush and regular toothpaste. Professor Ahn said, "Some patients ask why they shouldn't brush dentures with toothpaste, but they neglect to brush their natural teeth or implants as well." Users of partial dentures or implant dentures should be familiar with and follow the appropriate cleaning methods for their dentures, as well as proper care for their remaining natural teeth or implants. If going out or other circumstances make it difficult, it is advisable to remove the dentures and rinse the mouth and dentures with water alone.

 

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There is also pelvic bone grafting.

My father uses a partial denture.

In the case of my mother, her oral structure is too small, so she needs dentures.

I was also encouraged.

 

You don't necessarily have to get an implant.

 

However, in the case of dentures, you need to take good care of them.