Introduction: Dentures are a reliable and affordable solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile. At Smile Design Team, we offer both full and partial dentures, custom-made to fit comfortably and function naturally.
What Are Dentures? Dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and the surrounding tissues. They are made from acrylic resin, sometimes combined with metal attachments, to ensure durability and a natural appearance. Dentures help restore the ability to eat and speak properly while improving facial aesthetics.
Types of Dentures:
- Full Dentures: Also known as complete dentures, these are used when all the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw (or both) are missing. Full dentures rest on the gums and are held in place by suction or dental adhesive.
- Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored base, which is connected by metal clasps or precision attachments to the natural teeth.
- Immediate Dentures: These are placed immediately after tooth extraction, allowing you to have teeth while your gums heal. Adjustments may be needed as the healing process progresses.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: These dentures are anchored by dental implants, providing greater stability and preventing the dentures from slipping out of place.
The Denture Fitting Process:
- Initial Consultation: Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and discuss your denture options. If extractions are needed, they will be scheduled before the denture fitting.
- Impressions: Impressions of your gums and any remaining teeth are taken to create a model for your custom dentures.
- Try-In: A wax model of your dentures is created and tried in your mouth to ensure proper fit, bite, and appearance. Adjustments can be made at this stage.
- Final Denture: Once the fit is confirmed, the final dentures are fabricated and fitted. Your dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure comfort and functionality.
Living with Dentures:
- Adapting to Dentures: It may take a few weeks to get used to wearing dentures. During this time, practice speaking and eating soft foods to adjust.
- Caring for Your Dentures: Clean your dentures daily using a denture brush and mild cleanser. Soak them overnight in a denture solution to keep them moist and retain their shape.
- Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth to maintain oral health.
- Regular Checkups: Visit your dentist regularly to ensure your dentures fit well and to check your oral health.
Benefits of Dentures:
- Restores Functionality: Dentures allow you to eat, speak, and smile confidently.
- Improves Appearance: Dentures support the facial muscles, giving you a more youthful appearance.
- Affordable Solution: Dentures are generally more affordable than other tooth replacement options like implants.
- Customizable: Dentures can be customized to fit your mouth comfortably and to match the appearance of your natural teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- How long do dentures last?
- With proper care, dentures can last 5-10 years. However, they may need to be relined or adjusted over time as your gums and bone structure change.
- Can I sleep with my dentures in?
- It’s recommended to remove your dentures at night to allow your gums to rest and to clean the dentures.
- Will dentures affect my speech?
- You may experience slight changes in speech as you adjust to dentures, but this usually improves as you become accustomed to wearing them.
Conclusion: At Smile Design Team, we are dedicated to providing high-quality dentures that restore both function and aesthetics to your smile. Whether you need full or partial dentures, our experienced team will work with you to find the best solution for your needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
