Dentures
How Do Dentures Replace Missing Teeth?
A denture is a prosthetic device that replaces missing teeth and improves oral functions and appearance. A conventional denture has an acrylic or metal base that lies over the gum bed and secures artificial teeth that fill in the missing space. The false teeth are usually made of porcelain, which looks just like natural teeth.
Dentures can be of different types, depending on how many teeth you need to replace. These prosthetics can help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence. The procedure for this treatment is non-invasive and more affordable than other alternatives.
Questions About Dentures
How Many Types of Dentures Are There?
Removable dentures are available in different varieties, primarily depending on the number of missing teeth. Our prosthodontists will examine your mouth to determine which type best suits your needs.
- Complete dentures: We recommend this type if all the natural teeth are missing in the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. They have a base made of acrylic or metal, covering the gums and the roof of the mouth. The artificial teeth are attached to the base, and they match the color and shape of your natural teeth. Our dental experts design these dentures in such a way that they restore maximum oral functions and improve overall facial appearance.
- Partial dentures: If you have lost a few teeth in your upper or lower jaw, we can replace them with partial dentures. They have a design similar to complete dentures, with additional clasps or attachments that utilize the support of adjacent natural teeth. Partial dentures can be cast metal, acrylic, or flexible. By replacing the missing teeth, they provide greater functional ease and improve smile aesthetics.
- Immediate dentures: Those patients who undergo tooth extractions and require replacement right after can benefit from immediate dentures. They are inserted soon after the extraction of natural teeth. We prepare them in advance based on the measurements and impressions of your mouth. They allow the patient to have teeth during the healing period, but they may need to be adjusted or replaced after a certain duration.
What Are The Steps Involved In Getting A New Denture?
The process of getting a removable denture at our practice typically involves the following steps:
- Consultation and oral exam: First, our dentists will examine your mouth and select the best type of denture for you. We will also assess your gum and bone health to determine if they can support a denture.
- Impressions: Our team will take impressions of your teeth and gums. We will send them to a dental lab, which will help the dental technicians to custom-fabricate your denture. We may also take measurements and photos of your face to ensure that your denture looks natural and matches your facial features.
- Fitting: Once your denture is ready, we will schedule an appointment to test its fit. We will check the fit, function, and appearance of your denture and make any necessary adjustments. Our dentists will also give you guidelines on its usage and maintenance.
- Follow-up: It takes time and patience to adapt to a denture in your mouth. We will schedule follow-up appointments to ensure that your denture is comfortable and working well. If you face any trouble with your new denture, feel free to discuss it with our dentists. We will adjust it so that it functions more efficiently.
Patient Testimonials
See what out happy patients have to say about us
Took my 7 month old in for his first visit and everyone was so helpful and made the first visit so easy . Lisa in the front was so helpful answering any question I had and was so nice to me and my baby ,as well as made checking out easy and fast . Nora in the room was so patient and made sure my child was comfortable.
Karina and Lisa were very attentive in the front ! Nora, Juana, Alex were attentive to my treatment needs ! Dr. Dang is the best DANG dentist !!! He’s was very detailed with my treatment! He took his time to make sure I was comfortable through out my whole dental treatment!! Thank y’all !!
ruly and very satisfied with my dental appointment, I hadn't gone to the dentist in about 8 years because I had a bad experience. I switched my entire family to be seen with Dr.Dang, him and his team are great. Nora the dental assistant was very nice and informative throughout the whole visit.
What Are The Advantages of Removable Dentures?
Removable dentures have been an easy and convenient way of replacing missing teeth for many decades. Although there are several permanent solutions available nowadays, such as dental implants, many patients still prefer getting dentures for the following benefits:
- They are cost-effective compared to other tooth replacement options, such as implants or bridges.
- They are non-invasive and do not require surgery or drilling into your jawbone.
- They can enhance your chewing and speaking abilities by filling in the gaps left by missing teeth.
- They can restore your self-confidence and smile by giving you a natural-looking set of teeth.
- They can prevent further bone loss and maintain your overall oral health.
- They preserve your facial structure and prevent premature sagging by supporting your gums and cheeks.
Can Denture Cause Any Issues In The Long Run?
There are many benefits of getting a removable denture, but you may face some issues as time passes. Some common problems include:
- They may become uncomfortable, irritating, or infectious if they do not fit well or become loose.
- They can affect your speech or eating if they move or slip in your mouth.
- They need regular cleaning and maintenance to avoid plaque buildup, tooth decay, gum disease, or bad breath.
- They can reduce your taste sensation, as they cover some of your palate.
If you face any difficulties with your denture that impact your smile and functions, you can contact us immediately for repair or replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dentures come in several types, including full dentures that replace all teeth in an arch and partial dentures that fill in gaps where some natural teeth remain. There are also implant-supported dentures that snap onto implants for extra stability. We'll help you choose the option that best fits your needs, comfort, and lifestyle.
Modern dentures are made to fit your mouth comfortably and look natural, though it can take a little time to adjust to wearing them. Most patients adapt within a few weeks as eating and speaking become more comfortable. If your dentures ever feel loose or sore, we can adjust the fit so they stay comfortable.
