Losing several or all of your teeth is something that no one plans on, but when this does happen there are several options for the replacement of missing teeth. Complete dentures and partial dentures are two options to replace missing teeth and re-establish function and smile. Complete and partial dentures are custom-made replacement teeth that can be taken out and put back in. Just like any other prosthetic, such as an artificial leg or arm, dentures and partials will take some time to get used to. Although nothing can replace natural teeth, we take the time and effort to create the highest quality dentures and partials. Our custom made dentures and partials are natural looking, functional, well fitting and very comfortable.
BENEFITS OF PARTIALS AND DENTURES
There are several benefits of replacing missing teeth with well-fitting dentures or partials. Replacing missing teeth will help improve your smile, eating habits and overall quality of life. Having missing teeth can make it very hard to eat many of the foods that we enjoy and foods that are packed with vitamins and nutrients such as meats, fruits, vegetables, and nuts. In addition, without the structural support of teeth or a denture, muscles of the face will sag and cave in, making a person look much older.
Properly fitting dentures are also critical for preserving the jaw bone. When teeth are missing, the body tends to resorb or “melt away” the bone in that area. Properly fitting dentures will help stimulate the gums and bone in order to slow this process down. On the other hand, poorly fitting dentures can put uneven forces on the gums and jaw bone which can dramatically increase the speed of bone destruction. Speaking can also be a great challenge for many people with missing teeth as many of the letters we speak rely on our teeth for proper annunciation such as “S”, “F”, and “V”. Partials and dentures can greatly help a person speak much more comfortably.
PARTIALS OR DENTURES?
With complete dentures, the replacement teeth are supported by a gum colored acrylic base which tightly fits over the gums. The upper denture will cover the roof of your mouth, while the lower denture is made in a “horseshoe” shape in order to leave room for the tongue. Complete dentures are a great option for patients who are missing all of their teeth. We use various techniques to make a well-fitting custom-made denture which can provide you with natural looking teeth, and allow you to eat many of the foods you enjoy.
A partial denture can replace several of your missing teeth, but cannot replace all of them. There are several types of partial dentures including all acrylic partials and metal and acrylic combination partials. Metal and acrylic combination partials are the most common and sturdy of the two options. The metal framework supports the acrylic base and adds strength for chewing, which makes the partial very durable and able to withstand chewing forces for many years. A partial relies on your remaining teeth along with your gums for support. Because of this, we need to be certain that the remaining teeth are strong and stable in order to be able to support a partial denture. At times, we may recommend crowns on weakened teeth in order to strengthen them so that they can serve as anchors for the partial.
IMPLANTS AND DENTURES
Thanks to advances in dentistry, there is now a solution for loose dentures! Patients who have severe bone loss may not have enough bone to support a tight-fitting denture. Implant dentistry has completely changed the lives of individuals with loose fitting dentures. Dental implants can be carefully positioned below the gum-line and serve as anchors to stabilize either upper or lower dentures. Depending on the number of implants you receive, dentures can be either a traditional “snap-in” prosthesis or a porcelain non-removable denture for a more natural look and feel.
- Removable implant-supported dentures have special attachments that “snap” onto the implants. This secures the denture and provides a great amount of stability. This type of prosthesis will typically require 2-4 implants.
- Fixed implant-supported dentures are made in such a way that they can permanently be secured to the implants and the gums. This is a great option for patients who are looking for the best looking and most natural option to replace several or all of their teeth. This type of denture can also be made from porcelain, which will look, chew and feel very similar to real teeth! This type of prosthesis will typically require 4-8 implants.
In certain cases, we can use your existing denture and retrofit it to new implants! Call us today and schedule a consultation to see if dentures, partials or implants are right for you!
TIPS FOR CARING FOR YOUR DENTURE AND PARTIAL
- Keep dentures wet – Don’t let your denture or partial dry out. Store it in a solution containing denture cleanser or plain water when you’re not wearing it. Never use hot or boiling water. This can warp dentures beyond repair.
Keep dentures clean- Cleaning dentures with a brush on a daily basis will remove food debris and plaque, which can stain and damage dentures over the years. - Keep your mouth clean – Brush your gums, tongue and the roof of your mouth with a soft brush on a daily basis before inserting dentures. This will encourage blood flow to your gums and help remove plaque. Rinsing your mouth with mouthwash can also help keep your mouth clean.
- Keep away from pets – Dogs love to chew dentures and partials! Your denture comes in contact with you and the food you eat, which are two of your dog’s favorite things. Now that’s an expensive chew toy!
- Consult your dentist – If you notice your dentures chipping, cracking or becoming loose, give us a call! Refrain from adjusting them yourself as this can cause damage beyond repair.
Ferdos Family Dental
Dentures & Partials
Although partials and dentures are a large investment, you can be rest assured that you are receiving the highest quality dental care at our office! At Ferdos Family Dental, we only use the highest quality materials and work with the best dental labs to ensure the best possible outcome. We will also work with your insurance company to ensure you get the maximum benefit, along with offering a variety of payment options including Care Credit with 6 months interest-free financing!
If you believe you need a denture or partial, call and schedule an appointment!
