Dentures : All You Need to Know About

After losing your teeth, you may notice certain changes in your mouth. For example, missing teeth create gaps that can cause a shift in your bite. Tooth loss also negatively impacts your chewing ability and your speech.

Tooth replacement may be the best next step. If you’ve recently lost your teeth, you can easily replace them using traditional dentures. Dentures are among the various teeth replacement options available at Quincy Dental Associates.

What is a Denture?

A denture is a custom dental restoration consisting of a plastic, gum-colored base that supports pontic or false teeth. Traditional dentures are made from dental impressions and supported via a framework of dental adhesive and metal clasps.

Dentures allow you to replace your teeth without undergoing surgery. In addition, since they’re removable, dentures offer flexibility as they can be taken out when not in use.

Partial, Complete, and Implant-Supported Dentures

Partial dentures are ideal for individuals who’ve suffered mild to moderate tooth loss. That is, if you’ve lost one or a few teeth, you’re a good candidate for partial dentures.

Complete dentures are recommended for patients who’ve undergone complete tooth loss or edentulism.

To combine the benefits of implants and the convenience of dentures, you may opt for implant-supported dentures. These offer excellent stability while allowing you to address severe tooth loss without undergoing multiple treatments or surgeries. For instance, the All-On-4 treatment enables patients to restore an entire dental arch using four implants only.

Are Dentures Right for You?

Dentures are typically associated with older patients. However, Quincy Dental Associates welcomes patients of all ages to enjoy personalized partials and dentures.

To find out if you’re a good candidate for dentures, the dentist evaluates you to check bone and gum tissue health. In addition, the dentist obtains dental x-rays to gather in-depth insights into your oral health.

If you require implant-supported dentures, the dentist must confirm that you have sufficient bone to hold the implants. If you’ve experienced bone any loss, you may require bone grafting surgery beforehand.

As each patient is unique, the best way to evaluate your suitability for dentures is by scheduling a session with the dentists near you at Quincy Dental Associates.

The Process of Getting Dentures

The steps involved in getting partials and dentures are as follows:

Dental Examination

Your dentist must first obtain adequate information before fitting you with dentures. Pre-requisite treatments are also recommended at this point if needed.

Dental imaging and impressions

The dentist obtains the patient’s impressions while also checking for any existing bite problems. The upper and lower teeth must fit correctly so that the dentures can function well.

Wax models and try-ins

Before creating a final version of your dentures, the dentist makes temporary versions for you to try on. The dentist assesses the fit, shape, and color of the temporary models before creating the final denture.

Final denture

Finally, the dental lab creates your final denture, which becomes your new set of teeth. Adjustments are performed when necessaryand as part of your ongoing dental care routine.

Advantages of Dentures

Dentures are a popular teeth replacement option, and for good reason. Some key advantages of dentures include:

• You don’t require surgery unless you opt for implant-retained dentures or need bone grafts.
• Dentures restore chewing ability.
• They enhance your confidence.
• Dentures are low maintenance and easy to clean.
• Dentures are relatively affordable.
• Dentures can be used as a placeholder immediately after tooth loss, as you consider other permanent options. This gives your mouth sufficient time to heal.
• Dentures can be easily and quickly modified to accommodate more teeth in the event of future tooth loss.
• They don’t require the reshaping of adjacent teeth.

Caring for Your Dentures

Caring for your dentures correctly boosts their shelf life, allowing you to enjoy them for longer. Here are some essential denture care tips to keep in mind:

• Rinse your dentures thoroughly after eating to remove food particles.
• Handle the dentures with care and avoid bending them.
• Brush your dentures gently at least once daily with a soft toothbrush and denture cleaning solution. You may also use mild soap instead.
• When cleaning or rinsing your dentures, place a towel on the sink to ensure a soft landing in case the dentures slip out of your hands.
• Store your dentures in water or denture-soaking solution overnight. Keeping the dentures moist allows them to retain their shape.
• Keep your mouth clean.
• Schedule twice a year dental exams and cleanings with your dentist.
• In the event of a loose fit, contact your dentist for adjustment or replacement.

Call our dentist in Quincy, MA Now

If you’ve lost your teeth and require personalized dental care to restore your smile, reach out to Quincy Dental Associates today. Quincy Dental Associates provides exceptional partials and dentures service, among other teeth replacement options.