Handsman Periodontics Blog

Implant dentures give you a reliable way to replace all of your missing teeth at once. But this isn’t a treatment that can be finished in just one day; the road toward a recompleted smile involves several steps spread out over a certain period of time. Exactly how long will it take to get implant dentures? Here’s what you can generally expect during the process and what the timeline will typically look like.

What is the Process for Getting Implant Dentures?

An initial consultation will be held to see whether you’re able to get implant dentures. Assuming that you’re found to be a suitable candidate, the following steps will be taken to rebuild your smile from the roots up:

• You will undergo any preliminary treatments that might be needed to prepare your mouth and jaw for dental implants. For example, a bone graft may be required to ensure that your jaw has enough bone density to support the implant posts.
• After the necessary preparations are complete, your dental implant surgery will be performed. A carefully chosen number of implant posts will be inserted into specific parts of your jaw.
• The implant posts will gradually fuse with the bone around them. Once they’re done doing so, impressions of your mouth will be taken.
• A denture will be created based on the impressions. Once it’s ready, it will be anchored to your implant posts during one last appointment.

So, How Long Does Getting Implant Dentures Take?

Generally speaking, getting implant dentures can be expected to take anywhere from six months to a full year. This is largely due to the fact that you will need to wait for your mouth to heal after certain steps before the process can move forward. For example, it can take around three to six months for a surgically placed implant post to finish forming a strong bond with the jaw.

It should be noted that not every patient will need bone grafting or other preliminary procedures. If you do end up requiring such treatments, though, you can expect them to add to the overall timeline.

Are Implant Dentures Worth It?

While getting implant dentures can certainly take a while, many patients find that they’re worth it in the long run. Unlike traditional dentures, implant dentures don’t slip out of place while you’re trying to speak or eat. On top of that, they have enough chewing power to handle virtually any kind of food, and the stimulation of the implant posts can actively help fight bone loss in the jaw.

Are you thinking of replacing your missing teeth with implant dentures? If so, you should set up a consultation with your periodontist; once they have learned more about your situation, they can give you a reliable estimate of how long the implant denture process is likely to take in your case.

About the Author

Dr. David Handsman received a Masters of Dental Surgery in periodontology from the University of Tennessee. He has been named a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, and he holds membership with various organizations such as the Massachusetts Periodontal Society. His Worcester practice, Handsman & Haddad Periodontics, is proud to offer patients sturdy, long-lasting implant dentures. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Handsman, visit his website or call (508) 753-5444.