Custom-Fit Dentures for Optimal Comfort
If you are missing teeth, dentures can provide a positive solution to improving your oral health. We are proud to provide dentures that are designed to fit your mouth for proper function and unique comfort. Following your appointment, we will provide you with information on at-home care for your dentures. We strongly recommend scheduling follow up appointments for periodic denture cleanings.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable appliances that are custom-designed to fit comfortably on the gums, with artificial teeth that appear natural and are supported by a base. They are a budget-friendly choice for replacing missing teeth and can be used to replace some or all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaws. Unlike permanent solutions like bridges and implants, dentures can be easily taken out for cleaning and maintaining oral hygiene, and can also be removed while sleeping.
Types Of Dentures
There are two main types of removable dentures: full dentures and partial dentures. The best option for your smile will depend on the number and health of your natural teeth. If you have some healthy natural teeth remaining, a partial denture may be the right choice. However, if all of your upper or lower teeth are missing or in poor condition, a complete denture may be the most suitable option for you.
Full Dentures
Full dentures, also known as complete dentures, are a viable choice for replacing the upper teeth, lower teeth, or both. It is essential to understand that dental treatments are not one-size-fits-all. The design, fabrication, and fitting of full dentures are tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient.
Conventional Full Denture
Once all remaining teeth have been removed and the surrounding tissues have healed sufficiently, a custom denture is created and inserted. Waiting until complete healing has occurred ensures a precise and comfortable fit for the full denture.
Immediate Denture
An immediate denture allows patients to have teeth immediately after extraction, eliminating the need to wait for complete healing. Although this prevents patients from being toothless, adjustments and a reline may be necessary as the tissues heal. In some instances, a conventional denture may be required for optimal comfort and fit.
Overdenture
An overdenture is a full denture that is enhanced in stability and support through special attachments. These attachments can be connected to the existing natural teeth or to specific dental implants.
Implant-supported Dentures
An implant-supported denture is a type of denture that connects to a set number of implants strategically placed in the upper or lower jaw. These implants serve as small surgical posts, providing precise attachment points for the denture and significantly improving stability and retention.
Partial Dentures
When some strong teeth are still present, partial dentures can be a great solution for replacing missing teeth. These dentures use clasps or precision attachments on neighboring teeth to ensure they stay in place securely. Removable partial dentures can fill in the gaps left by one or multiple missing teeth, restoring the appearance and function of a complete smile. They also help stabilize the remaining natural teeth and prevent them from shifting.
Just like full dentures, the design and materials used for partial dentures can vary based on each patient's needs. With advancements in dental technology, there are more options available than ever before. The framework of a partial denture can be made from materials such as cast metal, flexible resins, and hybrid materials.
At Chatsworth Family Dental Group, we are committed to creating healthy and beautiful smiles. You can trust us to create a denture that fits well, looks great, and will last for years to come.
What To Expect When You Receive Your New Denture
At Chatsworth Family Dental Group, our top priority is to provide our patients with the best care and comfort possible. We are dedicated to promoting excellent oral health and keeping our patients informed every step of the way.
Adjusting To Wearing A New Denture
Adjusting to a new denture, especially a full one, may require some time. It is common to experience minor discomfort while speaking, chewing, and using your new teeth. It may take a few adjustments for the denture to fit properly and feel comfortable. If you have a sore spot, try wearing the denture at least a day before your adjustment appointment. This will help us identify the area causing irritation and make necessary adjustments.
More Saliva Than Usual
Your mouth may experience increased saliva production when adjusting to new dentures, but this is a temporary reaction. Rest assured that the flow of saliva will return to normal over time.
Speaking With Ease
Adjusting to new dentures may make speaking difficult at first, but this feeling will diminish after a few days. It's important to keep talking as usual to help yourself get used to your new teeth. To make this easier, try reading out loud from books or a computer.
Getting Used To Eating With A Denture
New denture wearers may need some time to get used to eating with them. Adjusting to eating with a full denture can be more challenging than with a partial denture. It is advised to begin with soft foods and avoid chewing on just one side. Over time, your tongue, lips, cheeks, and soft tissues will adjust to chewing with your denture, making eating more comfortable for you.
Taking Care Of Your Dentures
Here are some tips to keep your dentures clean and healthy:
- Rinse and brush your dentures daily after eating to prevent stains and bacteria buildup. Use a denture brush and soak them in water or denture cleaner at least once a week.
- Brush your remaining teeth and gums to maintain cleanliness and healthy tissues. If you have an upper denture, clean the roof of your mouth as well.
- Remove your dentures before bed to give your gums and jawbone a rest, reducing the risk of irritation, infection, and bone shrinkage.
Added Stability
In certain situations, full dentures may require extra retention methods due to the condition of the underlying tissues and other factors. Although denture adhesive is usually enough, implant-supported or attachment-clipped full dentures provide enhanced stability and retention.
Follow-up Care
It is important to have regular checkups and care to maintain good oral health and overall well-being. During these visits, we will not only check the fit and condition of your dentures, but also thoroughly examine the condition of any remaining teeth and assess the health of all the soft and hard tissues in and around your mouth.
Relines
As time passes, the tissues supporting the denture may change, leading to discomfort and instability as the tissues shrink or remodel. In these situations, a reline procedure may be recommended to improve comfort and stability.
Chatsworth Family Dental Group is dedicated to providing excellent care. If you have any questions or concerns about your new dentures, please feel free to contact our office.
