Question

I (59, female) have had a full upper denture since I was young. My lower jaw consists of a partial denture with a press stud. My dentist suggested placing an implant in my upper jaw. This would leave my palate free. I am worried that I might develop problems later due to osteoarthritis and infections. What about speaking? H. M. in E. 

Short answer

Implants heal firmly in the bone during the first two months. Once this time has passed successfully, the chance of suffering an infection is very low. Dental prostheses can be reliably fixed in the jaw with the help of implants. The risk of discomfort in the jaw joints due to osteoarthritis is reduced by such treatment. The effect on speech must be tested before the new teeth are fitted (trial prosthesis).

Dentures can be reliably fixed to the jaws with the help of implants. In the lower jaw, this is very often the only way to reliably stabilize full dentures on severely atrophied jaws. In the upper jaw, it is also possible to avoid having to cover the palate, which significantly increases comfort. Thanks to the clear and firm fit of the teeth, the jaws on the right and left are evenly and stably supported. This not only protects the alveolar ridges, but also the temporomandibular joints from incorrect loading. The risk of discomfort in the temporomandibular joints due to osteoarthritis is reduced by such treatment. 

Infections very rare 

Implants heal firmly in the bone during the first 2 months. Once this time has passed successfully, which happens in 95 % to 99 % of cases, the chance of suffering an infection is very low. However, this requires daily care, regular professional check-ups and a sufficient number of implants that can bear the chewing forces without overloading. Depending on the quantity and quality of the existing bone, at least four implants are required in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw to successfully anchor a prosthesis. It is now possible to anchor a fixed bridge over the entire jaw on just four implants, not only in the lower jaw but also in the upper jaw. 

Speech must be tested 

If teeth are replaced in the front of the upper jaw, which is the case for you, the influence on speech, but also the position of the teeth and the effect on the later appearance must be tested before the new teeth are completed. This is done with temporary teeth, which are often necessary during the treatment period anyway, or with "trial dentures" specially made for these tests which, if everything is right, will ultimately serve as a template for the new teeth.  

Author: Dr. med. dent. Jürg Eppenberger
Published in: Neue Luzerner Zeitung on May 31, 2006