All-On-4

"When working with an 'All-on-4' type of prosthesis - a fixed prosthesis or denture that generally is affixed to 4 to 6 implants - it is really critical for one to have a full understanding and be comfortable working with removable prosthodontics (dentures)," says Dr. Judith Strutz, a prosthodontics specialist working in San Bernardino, California. "This is because so much of the removable principals are critical for long term success in an implant supported prosthesis (denture) and a great outcome."

The mouth's forces need to be managed so the implants are protected. The way a patient moves around their jaws makes a difference in how the teeth will move around once the 'All on 4' type of prosthesis is attached.  A strong background in removable prosthodontics allows the specialist to come up with solutions to manage this situation that many others have never thought of or done before. Why is this important? With implants, people chew with significantly more force than with their own teeth, because they don't have the same sense from the mouth about how hard they are chewing. 

"Because of this more forceful chewing with implant supported teeth, you have to build into the 'All-on-4' type of prosthesis in a way to distributes the mouth's forces to protect the implants and bone.  This knowledge is based on experience with removable prostheses.  With dentures you have to address those same forces for a different reason - because you want to minimize any bone loss caused from wearing dentures.  This same kind of knowledge and experience is critical for success."

A prosthodontist, is a specialist who actually has additional education and training, not only in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, but also in removable prosthesis which is why they are a great choice for patients to consider when investing in this type of dental care. Dr. Strutz's experience causes her to look at these 'All-on-4' type of cases in the same way she has looked at her traditional denture cases for years and this means that she can enable long term success. 

For more information on All-On-4, contact Dr. Judy Strutz and her team today!

3 Tips To Fantastic Dentures

Dentures have come a long way from when your great-grandmother had them. No longer do you need to have poorly fitting dentures that come out at the most inconvenient times. “If you are looking for a fantastic set of dentures, make sure you follow these three easy tips to ensure you receive a brilliant smile,” says Dr.Judy Strutz.  

     1.   Be prepared to spend the time to get an outstanding result. Many dentists will provide dentures after only a couple of visits to their office. As dentures do best when they are custom made, be ready to visit your dentist several times before you even see a mock-up of your final denture. Time is of the essence, but you do not want to rush this.

2. While everyone wants a luminous smile, if your smile looks too radiant with dentures, it might appear that you are wearing exactly that - dentures. Dr. Strutz suggests, “Consider a tooth shade that brightens, but yet provides a natural look.” Shining as bright as a diamond has a time and a place. The color of your denture is not one of them. 

3. How your teeth fit together is critical for the success of your dentures. Make sure you are seeing someone who understands occlusion or bite issues and can make your dentures fit and stay when you are eating and speaking. There is nothing more embarrassing then losing your teeth when you are in the middle of something important. 

While dentures have come a long way over the years, the tips above will help you to keep looking young and healthy even after you have lost your own teeth.