Dentures
Losing your teeth can be a frustrating experience. With the teeth gone, the facial muscles tend to sag which can make you look older, affecting your self confidence, speech and ability to eat. Dentures are a great option to restoring normalcy to your life. During your consultation, we’ll assess all your options and you can choose what you feel most comfortable with.
Partial
Partial dentures are ideal for those who are missing only a few teeth in a row. They latch onto the remaining gum line and any intact adjacent teeth. Even if you only have one tooth on your dental arch, a partial denture may still work best, since the remaining tooth serves as a natural anchor.
Complete
When your dental arch no longer has any teeth, a complete denture is the optimal solution. You can choose the traditional kind that latches to the gum line or choose to have dentures that are anchored by dental implants. The latter option has the best hold, but involves surgery. Our dentists can discuss all the details so you can make an informed decision.
Common Questions
Are they uncomfortable?
There is a period of adjustment when you first start wearing dentures. It can take some time to get used to the feeling of the dentures in your mouth, especially if you've been without your teeth for an extended period of time. You may find it difficult or awkward to chew certain foods, and speaking may feel strange. Some soreness or irritation is to be expected at first. However, once you've gotten used to your dentures they will feel completely natural. If you continue to experience soreness for a long period of time, contact your dentist and set up an appointment to make sure your dentures are a proper fit and there are no signs of gum deterioration.
Can I eat normal foods with dentures?
Certainly; however, keep in mind that it will take some time to get used to chewing. It's best to start with small pieces of soft foods until you learn to control your chewing a little better. Chew slowly. Move on to more difficult foods as you become comfortable.
How do I care for my dentures?
It's very important to maintain good dental hygiene. Brushing at least twice daily, and soaking the dentures in a solution overnight, is recommended. There are special brushes available made specifically for use with dentures that should be used. It's also important to gently brush the gums and tongue with a soft-bristled brush each morning before placing the dentures in your mouth.
How long can I expect my dentures to last?
There is no set time line. Dentures will require adjustments over their life span due to normal wear and tear. When the dentures and mouth are cared for properly, they will last many years. Regular dental appointments will be necessary.