Dentures
What are Dentures?
Dentures are prosthetic appliances that are worn to replace missing teeth. Full dentures will help to replace an entire arch of missing dentition, whereas a partial denture only replaces several teeth with one prosthesis. Dentures can last for about five to seven years before it will be recommended to have them replaced. Dentures are made custom for each person wearing them, so they’re always natural-looking and realistic.
Why are Dentures needed?
Dentures are often needed if you’re missing most, or all, of your teeth. For patients with advanced gum disease, the remaining teeth may need to be removed before the dentures can be made and placed. Dentures are ideal in both improving oral function, as well as filling out the face, preventing a sunken-in appearance. They are ideal for patients of all ages, and are incredibly durable.
The Benefits of Dentures
Dentures, or false teeth, provide a variety of benefits if you are missing multiple teeth. Here are several benefits of dentures:
Improved Appearance: Dentures can restore a full set of teeth, significantly enhancing the appearance of the person’s smile and face. They can fill out the appearance of the face and profile, which can often sag without the support of teeth.
Better Speech: Missing teeth can make it difficult for a person to pronounce certain words correctly. Dentures can help to improve speech, although there may be an adjustment period as the person learns to talk with them.
Enhanced Chewing Ability: Dentures can significantly improve a person’s ability to chew most foods. This can lead to better nutrition because the person is able to eat a wider variety of foods.
Improved Oral Health: For partial dentures, replacing missing teeth can help prevent the remaining natural teeth from shifting positions, which can lead to misalignment or jaw problems.
Cost-Effective: While there are other methods of teeth replacement such as dental implants or bridges, dentures are often the most cost-effective solution, especially when many or all teeth are missing.
Increased Confidence: The improved appearance and speech that comes from wearing dentures can significantly boost a person’s self-confidence and improve their overall quality of life.
“I would highly recommend Singla to my family and friends. The dentist and his staff were excellent!“
Danielle Woodard
What makes you a good candidate for Dentures?
To determine if dentures are right for you, you’ll come into our office for an exam and consultation with our highly experienced dentist, Dr. Singla. Dentures are ideal for patients who are already missing all, or most, of their teeth. Prior to being fitted for a denture, you may need to have extractions done. You will be fitted with a temporary denture until your gums have healed from the surgical extractions.
What happens during the Denture procedure?
You will come into our office for impressions and a consult. The consult allows us to help in choosing the right type of denture for you, as well as the color that is right for you. The impressions are sent to a local lab where the new prosthesis is made custom to fit your mouth. You will come back into the office and have the appliance adjusted to fit perfectly. You may need several adjustments before the denture fits just right. It is important to remove your denture nightly so that you remove bacteria, odors, and plaque.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
The lifespan of dentures can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors such as the quality of the dentures, the fit, how well they’re taken care of, and changes in the shape of the wearer’s mouth over time. On average, dentures last between 5 to 7 years but can last up to 10 years with proper care.
Over time, even with diligent care, dentures can become worn or damaged, and the fit can change as the mouth naturally changes shape with age. Regular check-ups with a dental professional are important, as they can adjust the dentures to improve the fit, comfort, and function, and also check for any signs of damage.
After several years of use, dentures may need to be relined, rebased, or completely remade, depending on their condition. Denture wearers should also maintain good oral hygiene, cleaning their dentures daily and giving their gums and any remaining teeth the care they need to stay healthy.
Alternatives to Dentures
Dental implants have emerged as a preferred alternative to dentures for many reasons, and their popularity continues to grow. Not only do they function like natural teeth, but they also offer an array of benefits that elevate them above traditional dentures.
Dental implants are permanent fixtures that are surgically fused to the jawbone. This makes them remarkably stable, eliminating any concerns about slipping or movement when talking or eating – a level of comfort and reliability dentures often cannot match.
The top 5 benefits of dental implants as an alternative to dentures:
Stability and Comfort: Dental implants are permanent fixtures surgically fused to the jawbone, eliminating any worries about slipping or movement when talking or eating.
Preservation of Jawbone Health: Unlike dentures, dental implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to maintain its density, a crucial aspect of overall oral health.
Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective solution in the long run due to reduced need for replacements or adjustments.
Natural Function and Appearance: Dental implants function and feel like natural teeth, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
Improved Self-esteem: Dental implants help restore the look of a natural, full smile, improving self-confidence in social situations without the fear of potential denture mishaps.
It’s important to note that dental implants may not be suitable for everyone. Patients must be in good general and oral health, with sufficient bone density in the jaw to support the implant. If you are unsure if dental implants or dentures are the best fit for you, we recommend you consult our dentist to ensure the best possible treatment options for your situation.
We offer Dentures in Duncanville!
If you would like to come in for dentures, or have questions about the procedure, we are here to take your call and help you schedule an appointment.
