As part of our commitment to comprehensive family dentistry, we offer a wide range of prosthodontics. If you are missing all or many of your teeth, your Lakewood dentist, Dr. Shaun Sigurdson or Dr. Mihir Patel, can provide a custom denture, designed to fit comfortably and naturally in your mouth. You can choose from several types of dentures, including full and partial restorations, immediate dentures, and implant-supported prosthetics.
Which type of dentures is right for me?
Your dentist in Dallas will explain the various options and help you select the right type of denture for your needs.
- Partial dentures: These prosthodontics will replace part of the dental arch. Traditionally, they are removable with a gum-colored plastic base and small clips that keep the restoration connected to the nearby teeth.
- Full dentures: Larger full dentures will restore an entire upper or lower dental arch. Removable full dentures also have a gum-colored base, and denture adhesive can lend further stability to the prosthetic.
- Immediate dentures: If you are undergoing a dental extraction, you do not have to wait for your replacement teeth. Your Lakewood dentist can provide an immediate denture in a single appointment.
- Implant-supported dentures: Dental implants can support a partial or full denture. These restorations are permanent, and the implants themselves will prevent jawbone degeneration.
How long does it take to get used to dentures?
It may take several weeks to adjust to your new denture. Nonetheless, your prosthetic will be custom-designed with great precision so, after this initial period, it will soon feel quite natural in your mouth.
How do I care for dentures?
If you have traditional removable dentures, you should take them out and clean them after every meal. Be sure to wipe your gums, tongue, and cheeks, as well. You should soak your dentures overnight in a special solution and rinse them well before putting them back in. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning materials.
If you opt for implant-supported dentures, you will care for them just as you would care for your natural teeth. You may also need to floss underneath to remove any food or bacteria.
How long do dentures last?
With proper care, dentures can last for many years. Studies show an average lifespan of ten years or more. However, before it is time to replace your dentures, you may need to have your prosthetic adjusted, particularly if your jaw changes shape. Implant-supported dentures will help you to avoid this problem since they prevent bone deterioration.
Will my diet be restricted?
As you adjust to your dentures, you may need to eat a soft diet for a few weeks. Over time, you will be able to enjoy a wide range of foods with few or no limitations. If you have a removable denture, you will still need to be careful when eating certain foods like whole fruits and chewing gum.
Contact a Lakewood Dentist to Learn More about Your Tooth Replacement Options
With so many restorative options and advanced materials to choose from, today’s dentures are more realistic and comfortable than ever before. To find out which type of dentures may be right for you, schedule an appointment online or give us a call at 214-827-1885.
