What are dentures?
Dentures are an option for replacing missing teeth. They can replace a single tooth or multiple teeth. A denture is a removable replacement option that the patient can put in and take out of their mouth.
What type of dental professional would I see about getting dentures?
There are two types of professionals you could see for getting a denture, depending on the state. The main professional you need to see is a dentist or general dentist. Another professional is a denturist, but not many states in the United States have this role. Generally, a general dentist is the main person to consult for getting a denture.
When would a dentist recommend getting dentures?
A dentist may recommend a denture as a replacement option for a missing tooth or multiple missing teeth, or when someone is missing all of their teeth. If you are not a candidate for a fixed option like implants, either due to medical reasons or financial constraints, a denture might be recommended. Though there may be some compromises, a denture provides a replacement for missing teeth.
What materials are used for dentures?
Most dentures are made of resin acrylic, which can look like natural tissue, typically appearing pink. The colors can vary, but the material is generally acrylic resin.
Is getting dentures painful?
Getting dentures is not painful. It's a multi-step process involving measuring the gums and taking impressions or scans. With modern techniques like scanning, the process is painless.
Will having dentures affect my ability to eat and drink regularly?
Yes, having dentures may affect your ability to eat normally. Dentures sit on the tissues and can move while eating, leading to some compromises in chewing certain foods. If there is good bone support and denture retention, some patients manage well, but many report they cannot chew and enjoy food as with natural teeth.
What is the best way to clean and care for dentures?
Proper care involves removing the denture at night and cleaning it to prevent tissue irritation. Use a separate brush to gently clean the denture. Denture cleansing tablets or solutions can be used for soaking overnight. It's crucial to keep the denture out at night and clean it with a toothbrush, water, soap, or cleansing tablets.
How long will my dentures last?
Dentures typically last from 7 to 20 years. Proper care is essential to maximize their lifespan. If you notice any breaks or irritation, consult your dentist for repairs or evaluations to ensure there are no sharp edges causing tissue irritation.
What if my dentures need any replacement or repair of any kind?
If your denture is breaking, has sharp points, or feels rough, contact your dentist immediately to evaluate whether it can be repaired or needs replacement. Certain fractures or rough spots can be fixed, but if the denture is too worn, a replacement might be necessary.
Hope I was able to answer most of your questions regarding dentures. If you still have any questions or you would like to see us, please feel free to visit our website, www.smilesbytheseanh.com, and give us a call at (603) 634-9445 to schedule an appointment, and we will be happy to help you.
Reliable and Effective Way to Restore Smiles
For hundreds of years, people have found dentures to be an effective way to restore the look of a smile. Thankfully, advancements in dentistry and technology have made it possible so these prosthetics are much more comfortable and easier to wear. At Smiles by The Sea Family Dentistry, our team of experts believe partials and dentures in Hampton remain one of the safest and most reliable forms of tooth replacement available, which is why you can trust that should you fall victim to missing teeth, you can achieve a beautifully restored smile in no time at all. Contact us to schedule an appointment and learn more about the convenience of dentures.
Why Choose Smiles by The Sea Family Dentistry for Dentures and Partials?
- Personalized care and treatment plan for every patient
- Custom-made, durable prosthetics
- Expert dental professionals to restore your smile
Who is a Good Candidate for Dentures?
To be considered a viable candidate for dentures, you must:
- Have experienced significant tooth loss (multiple or all your teeth along an arch)
- Have a sufficient amount of healthy gum tissue
- A jawbone that is somewhat healthy and strong
If you are seriously considering partial or full dentures to replace your missing teeth, you should also know it is a much more affordable option than other tooth replacement solutions.
What Are the Differences Between a Full and Partial Denture?
A full denture uses a gum-colored base and artificial teeth to fill in the lower or top arch of your mouth. When losing all your teeth, full dentures make it possible to see a fully restored smile. Your natural suction holds them in place, but dental adhesive can be used to provide added security.
A partial works like a puzzle piece in that it fills in the gaps. If you are missing a few non-consecutive teeth along an arch, a partial can be created using the same gum-colored base and artificial teeth. Instead of relying on your natural suction though, partials have clasps or clips that are attached to your natural teeth to hold it in place.
Both partials and full dentures are custom-made using impressions of your smile. This helps to ensure your denture fits comfortably when placed.
What Are the Benefits of Traditional Dentures?
- Affordability: Traditional dentures and partials are considered more affordable than other implant-based tooth replacements.
- Natural Look: Nowadays, dentures are made with ceramic teeth and are affixed to an acrylic, gum-colored base, making them more natural in appearance.
- Functionality: While wearing dentures, you will be able to eat, chew, and speak with clarity and without worry.
What Are Implant-Retained Dentures?
For patients who desire a more stable and longer-lasting restoration, implant-retained dentures are an alternative solution. Another more expensive, this restoration uses multiple dental implants, which are surgically placed into the jawbone. Once you are fully healed, a custom-made denture is snapped into place, creating a fully restored smile from the root up. Not only will you have the appearance of a natural smile, but your oral health will improve because of the implants continually stimulating your jawbone.
What Are the Benefits of an Implant-Retained Denture?
- Improved functionality while eating, speaking, and chewing
- A longer-lasting restoration that is designed to last for 30+ years or more
- No restrictions when it comes to foods you enjoy
- No chance for decay
- Improved oral health because of continual jawbone stimulation
- Restored bite strength
- Greater appearance and boost in confidence level
- Easy to clean and maintain with regular visits to see your dentist in Hampton, New Hampshire