Dentures & Partial Dentures

Tooth loss can occur due to many reasons, be it the result of untreated periodontal disease or tooth decay. Whatever the reason for the loss of teeth, it can result in issues when it comes to biting, chewing, and speaking. Shifting of the remaining teeth can cause discomfort, and many people who are missing teeth feel self-conscious about it.

Dentistry offers many solutions to the problem of missing teeth, depending on how many teeth are missing, the state of the remaining teeth, and other aspects. Likely the most cost-effective option for those missing many or all of their teeth are dentures or partial dentures.

Dentures and partials can restore your ability to eat, give you your smile back, and help reduce the sunken look that those with missing teeth may have due to bone loss and sagging facial muscles resulting from tooth loss.

The best option for you depends on your specific situation, so call us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kinn to discuss your options.

What types of dentures are available?

Restorations are available to replace all of the teeth on the upper or lower arch of the mouth. These are known as complete dentures.

For those who have remaining healthy teeth, partial dentures can be made to attach to them and fill in the areas where teeth are missing.

Bridges are an additional option for smaller gaps between natural teeth.

If enough healthy bone remains, implant-supported dentures may be an option. This method combines dentures with dental implants to provide a more stable fit and better biting force.

Give us a call to discuss your options for tooth replacement.

Denture FAQ

Q: What are the different types of denture prostheses?

Answer: There are three main types of complete denture prostheses: Conventional Complete Dentures, Interim Dentures, and Immediate Complete Dentures:

  • Conventional Complete Dentures: These are made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has begun to heal, typically taking several weeks to a few months. During this time, the patient goes without teeth until the dentures are fitted.
  • Interim Dentures: These are best considered “temporary dentures” because they serve as a transitional or diagnostic denture to helpDr. Kinn and patient evaluate appropriate esthetics and function.  Often these are prepared before extraction surgery and can be placed immediately after the teeth are removed. This means the patient does not have to go without teeth during the healing process. However, they may require more adjustments as the gums and bones heal and reshape over time, and the will need to be replaced with new dentures typically within 9 months to a year.
  • Immediate Complete Dentures: These are made in advance and can be placed immediately after the teeth are removed. This means the patient does not have to go without teeth during the healing process. However, they may require more adjustments as the gums and bones heal and reshape over time, and there is minimal control over the way the dentures will look. In most situations where a person wants to have dentures placed immediately, Interim Dentures are usually a better option.

Additionally, there are implant-supported complete dentures, which are anchored by dental implants placed in the jawbone, offering more stability and retention than traditional dentures.

Answer: The primary difference between traditional dentures and implant-supported dentures lies in how they are secured in the mouth:

  • Traditional Dentures: These are removable prostheses that rest on the gums and are held in place by suction and, sometimes, denture adhesive. They are made of acrylic and can replace all (complete dentures) or some (partial dentures) of the teeth.
  • Implant-Supported Dentures: These dentures are also removable but are anchored to dental implants that are surgically placed in the jawbone with snap-like attachments that allow the dentures to be removed easily for cleaning and tissue health. The implants provide a secure foundation, reducing the risk of slipping or shifting. Implant-supported dentures offer better stability, improved chewing efficiency, and a more natural feel than traditional dentures. They can be used for either the upper or lower jaw and are often preferred for the lower jaw, where traditional dentures are more prone to instability.  Implant-supported dentures can also be fixed, or screwed into place; this is actually a full fixed prosthesis rather than a true denture.

 

Both options have their advantages, and the choice between them depends on factors such as oral health, bone density, budget, and personal preference.

Answer: If you are getting conventional complete dentures, there will be a period after your teeth are extracted when you will go without teeth. This healing period allows the gums and bone to reshape, which is necessary for a proper denture fit. However, immediate dentures are an alternative that allows you to have dentures placed immediately after tooth extraction. While immediate dentures provide the advantage of not going without teeth, they may require more adjustments and relining as your gums and bones heal and change shape and will require the additional cost of relines within a year. Immediately placed interim dentures usually require the investment of two sets of dentures within a 12-month period.

Answer: Dentures are designed to closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth, and many people find that they look very similar to how they did with their natural teeth, or even better. A well-made set of dentures can support the lips and cheeks, preventing the sunken appearance that can occur after tooth loss. However, some subtle changes in appearance may occur as the dentures may alter the shape of your smile or facial contours slightly, but the goal is to create a natural, aesthetically pleasing look. There will be changes in the way that you look with new dentures, especially if you have been wearing worn dentures for several years.

Answer: It is recommended to wear your dentures for most of the day, typically 12 to 16 hours, to allow your mouth to get used to them and to maintain normal oral function. However, it is also important to remove them for at least 6 to 8 hours each day, usually at night, to give your gums and jaw tissues a chance to rest and recover. Removing dentures overnight also allows you to clean them thoroughly and store them in water or a denture-soaking solution to keep them from drying out and losing their shape.

Answer: It is generally recommended to remove your dentures at night. This gives your gums and oral tissues a chance to rest and recover from the pressure of wearing dentures throughout the day. Removing dentures at night also reduces the risk of developing oral infections, such as denture stomatitis, which can occur if dentures are worn continuously. Soaking your dentures overnight in water or a denture-cleaning solution keeps them moist and ready for use the next day.

Answer: Proper care of your dentures is crucial to maintain their appearance, function, and longevity. Here are the key steps:

  • Daily Cleaning: Remove your dentures and clean them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive denture cleaner to remove food particles and plaque. Avoid using regular toothpaste as it can be too abrasive.
  • Soaking: Soak your dentures in a denture cleaning solution or water overnight to keep them moist and maintain their shape.
  • Rinse After Eating: Rinse your dentures with water after meals to remove debris and prevent staining.
  • Handle With Care: When handling your dentures, do so over a soft surface or a sink filled with water to avoid breakage if they are dropped.
  • Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth with a soft toothbrush to maintain oral hygiene and stimulate circulation.
  • Regular Dental Visits: See Dr. Kinn regularly for check-ups and professional cleaning of your dentures.

— Lisa

“This dentist office is full of friendly and professional staff! They are very patient and explain everything without rushing. The thing I value most is they respect me as a patient. I have my whole family coming here because of their quality of care. Today I saw Dr. Kinn and Michelle who make it easy to be sitting in that chair. Through the years, meeting most of the staff, being treated by both Dr. Sulken and Dr. Kinn, as well as the waiting room environment, my fear of dental visits has become more manageable. This office is by far the best of all my dental experiences. They work hard at creating their atmosphere and it is very appreciated.”

 

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