Thanks to advancements in dental technology, materials, and care techniques, there are now more accessible options for replacing missing teeth that provide natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing results. Dental implants and fixed bridgework are effective solutions for missing teeth, however, removable dentures continue to be a reliable method for restoring a complete smile. At EverSmile Dental, we create dentures using top-quality dental materials to ensure a precise and comfortable fit. Our dentures are carefully crafted to not only rebuild beautiful smiles but also support natural facial features, allowing patients to confidently speak, smile, and chew. We are committed to assisting patients in achieving the benefits of a stunning smile and offer personalized solutions that cater to their dental needs, lifestyle, and budgetary considerations.
Recent statistics indicate that approximately 175 million adults in the country have experienced tooth loss, with nearly 40 million individuals having lost all of their teeth. Tooth loss can typically be attributed to factors such as extensive dental decay, advanced gum disease, traumatic injuries, congenital abnormalities, or certain medical conditions. Beyond the psychological and social implications caused by the unsightly gaps in one’s smile, missing teeth can also impact speech clarity and the ability to consume a balanced and nourishing diet. Moreover, if left unattended, the absence of teeth can lead to gradual changes in appearance and the misalignment of remaining teeth. These changes not only affect the bite, but they also have the potential to create additional unsightly gaps in the smile, carrying both aesthetic and health-related concerns. Additionally, the lack of a complete set of teeth may cause facial contours to appear more saggy and worn-out over time. Although it is never too late to restore a beautiful and complete smile, it is advisable to address tooth loss sooner rather than later. At EverSmile Dental, both partial and full dentures are available, offering an effective and gratifying solution for regaining a complete smile.
Dentures are dental appliances that can be easily removed and are specifically designed to fit comfortably on the gums that cover the jawbones. They consist of realistic-looking replacement teeth set on a supportive base. Dentures not only provide an affordable option for replacing missing teeth, but they also offer great versatility. They can be used to replace a few or all of the teeth in either the upper or lower jaws. Unlike conventional bridgework and dental implants, which provide fixed solutions for restoring smiles, partial and full dentures are removable oral devices. This means that dentures can be taken out of the mouth for cleaning and maintaining the health of the underlying tissues and any remaining natural teeth. They can also be removed while sleeping to ensure proper oral hygiene and care for both the dentures and the mouth.
In dentistry, there are various classifications of dentures available to cater to different dental needs and requirements. These classifications serve as a means to understand the diverse options available for individuals who may require dentures to restore their oral health and functionality. Below, we will explore the different categories of dentures:
1. Complete Dentures: These dentures are used when all the natural teeth in a patient’s mouth have been extracted or lost. Complete dentures provide a full set of replaceable teeth, enabling individuals to restore their ability to chew, speak, and maintain facial structure.
2. Partial Dentures: In cases where only some natural teeth are missing, partial dentures are used. These dentures consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored base that connects to the remaining natural teeth in the mouth. Partial dentures offer aesthetic improvement and help in restoring proper biting and chewing functionality.
3. Removable Dentures: As the name suggests, removable dentures are prosthetic devices that can be taken out of the mouth easily. Both complete and partial dentures can be fabricated as removable dentures. They provide flexibility and convenience, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance of oral hygiene.
4. Fixed Dentures: Unlike removable dentures, fixed dentures are permanently attached to the remaining natural teeth in the mouth or dental implants. Fixed dentures offer improved stability and strength, preventing slippage or movement while eating or speaking. This type of denture is usually recommended for individuals seeking a more permanent solution.
5. Immediate Dentures: Immediate dentures are fabricated in advance and can be immediately placed after tooth extraction. These dentures allow individuals to have teeth during the healing period after tooth removal, ensuring that they can continue to eat and speak normally until permanent dentures are ready.
6. Implant-Supported Dentures: Specifically designed to integrate with dental implants, implant-supported dentures offer enhanced stability and support. Dental implants act as anchors for the dentures, providing a secure and reliable fit. This type of denture is an excellent option for individuals who desire a more permanent and natural-looking solution.
Understanding the different types of dentures is crucial in determining the most suitable option for each individual’s unique dental requirements and preferences. A consultation with a qualified dentist is recommended to determine the ideal denture category to restore both oral health and confidence.
In order to create a denture that is visually pleasing, well-suited, and durable, it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of oral function, facial aesthetics, dental materials, and appliance design. At EverSmile Dental, we pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of advancements in dental care. By combining the art and science of dentistry, we are able to deliver exceptional treatment outcomes to our patients.
Once we have thoroughly assessed your medical and dental history, evaluated all aspects of your smile, and discussed your expectations, we will work with you to determine the most suitable options for restoring and reconstructing your smile. Our approach is based on a comprehensive analysis, which includes advanced diagnostic imaging. If necessary, we will recommend any dental procedures, additional treatments, or extractions that may be required before creating a partial or complete denture. It is essential that any remaining teeth are in good health and have adequate bone support. In some cases, we may suggest a pre-prosthetic procedure to enhance tissue anatomy and ensure an optimal fit for the denture.
The process of creating a denture or set of dentures is intricate and involves various steps. It begins with dental impressions, followed by framework try-ins. We carefully select the appropriate shade, shape, and size of the artificial teeth to achieve a natural appearance. We also ensure that the bite and overall oral function are comfortable and healthy. Depending on the complexity of the case, fabricating a partial or complete denture may require a single visit or multiple visits. Regardless of the timeline, our focus remains on executing each step of the process with meticulous care.
Adapting to Wearing a New Denture
Getting acclimated to wearing a fresh denture, particularly a full denture, might require a period of adjustment. It is quite common to experience the need for minor modifications as you begin to speak, chew, and function with your new set of teeth. It may take a few alterations to achieve a complete fit and a comfortable feel. If you encounter any sore spots, it is advisable to wear the denture at least a day prior to your adjustment appointment. By doing so, we can accurately identify the specific areas causing irritation and provide relief accordingly.
Increased Salivation
An increase in saliva production is a natural response to wearing a new denture. However, this is only a temporary reaction, so there is no need to worry. Over time, the saliva flow gradually returns to normal levels.
Speaking with Ease
Initially, it may seem difficult to articulate clearly with your new denture, but this sensation will pass within a few days. It is important to continue speaking as you normally would to allow yourself to adapt to your new teeth. Reading aloud from printed materials or a computer can aid in this process.
Adjusting to Eating with a Denture
If this is your first denture, it may take some time to become accustomed to eating with your new prosthesis. Adjusting to eating with a full denture can be more challenging than with a partial denture. It is recommended to start with soft foods and avoid favoring one side while chewing. Your tongue, lips, cheeks, and soft tissues will soon adapt to chewing with the denture, enabling you to eat with ease thereafter.
Caring for Your Dentures: Ensuring Proper Maintenance
To maintain the cleanliness of your dentures, it is vital to follow a regular care routine. After every meal, make sure to rinse your dentures thoroughly and brush them daily. This will prevent any accumulation of stains or bacteria on your new set of teeth. For optimal cleaning results, it is advisable to utilize a toothbrush specifically designed for dentures. Additionally, remember to soak your dentures in water when they are not in use and at least once a week in the recommended denture cleaner. Furthermore, it is important to brush any remaining natural teeth, as well as your gums, in order to maintain their cleanliness and promote healthy and firm tissues. If you wear an upper denture, it is recommended to rinse and gently clean the roof of your mouth as well. Lastly, removing your dentures at bedtime allows for rest and recovery of the gums and jawbone, helping to prevent irritation, infection, and bone resorption (shrinkage).
Enhancing Stability and Retention
In certain circumstances, additional measures may be necessary to improve the stability of full dentures. While denture adhesive is often sufficient, there are cases where implant-supported dentures or dentures that clip onto special attachments can provide added stability and retention.
Follow-up Care: Prioritizing Oral Health
In order to maintain optimal oral health and overall well-being, regular checkups and care are crucial. During these visits, we not only assess the fit and condition of your dentures but also perform a comprehensive examination to evaluate any remaining natural teeth and assess the health of all the tissues within and around the oral cavity.
Relines: Adjusting for Changing Tissues
Over time, the tissues that support your dentures may undergo changes. These changes can lead to discomfort or instability in the fit of your dentures as the shape and contours of these tissues shrink or remodel. To address this issue, a separate procedure known as a reline may be recommended.
Thanks to the continuous progress in dental materials and technology, modern dentures now offer unparalleled comfort and an incredibly lifelike appearance.
Regardless of whether you wear partial or full dentures, it is crucial to schedule regular dental appointments for proper maintenance. In addition to assessing the fit and condition of your dentures and making any required modifications, you will also undergo a thorough examination to evaluate the well-being of your remaining natural teeth, as well as the various soft and hard tissues within and surrounding the oral cavity.
Crafting a denture within a single day offers a rapid and efficient process, allowing patients to seamlessly progress from having their teeth impressions taken to having the denture inserted.
If you prefer not to endure a waiting period following tooth extraction, you have the option of getting an immediate denture that can be inserted on the very same day as the extraction. However, it’s important to note that as your extraction sites heal completely, there may be alterations in the denture’s fit. In such cases, a denture reline may be necessary to ensure a proper fit.
Although nobody desires to accidentally drop or damage their partial or complete denture, unforeseen incidents can occur. Fortunately, there are situations where your denture, whether partial or complete, can be repaired. The repairability relies on the severity of the damage sustained. Please do not hesitate to reach out to our office if you have experienced a broken or damaged denture. We are more than willing to provide our assistance and support.
The straightforward action of inserting and removing your partial denture may result in the gradual loosening of specific metal clasps. When you visit us for a checkup or reach out to our office for an adjustment, we will evaluate the fitting of your partial denture and enhance its stability and comfort by tightening the clasps.
Our dental office understands the importance of achieving a full and beautiful smile, but we also value the fact that dental care can be quite expensive. Therefore, we strive to personalize our services and have a detailed conversation with you about the various treatment options available, taking into consideration your specific needs, lifestyle, and financial situation.
The cost of a new denture will vary depending on several factors. These include the type of prosthesis required, the design specifications, as well as the materials utilized in creating the supportive base, teeth, clasps, or precision attachments. Additionally, if you opt for dentures that utilize dental implants to enhance retention and stability, there may be additional expenses involved.
Our office aims to provide tailor-made dental solutions that satisfy your requirements while being mindful of your budget.
If you possess dental insurance, there is a possibility that your policy covers the provision of a fresh set of dentures or their replacement. Our team is delighted to assist you in comprehensively evaluating your coverage, ensuring that you derive the utmost benefit from your insurance while minimizing any personal expenses you may incur.
At EverSmile Dental, our office is dedicated to offering a wide array of dental services, encompassing advanced techniques that efficiently aid patients in restoring their smiles with missing teeth. As accomplished and knowledgeable experts, we understand the individuality of each patient and the distinctiveness of their smiles. Our enthusiasm for our work is unwavering, as we wholeheartedly endeavor to create customized treatment plans that precisely cater to the needs and preferences of our patients, valuing them as respected colleagues in their care.