Madison Family Dental

Dentures

Complete Dentures

Upon the loss of all natural teeth from periodontal disease, decay, or injury, complete dentures can replace your missing teeth… and your smile. Replacing missing teeth will benefit not only your appearance, but also your health. There are a couple types of complete dentures. First is a conventional full denture, which is made and placed in the patient’s mouth after the remaining teeth are removed and the tissues have healed. Healing may take several months. Second is an immediate complete denture, which is inserted as soon as the remaining teeth are removed. Here, the denture wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. This option generally requires that the denture be relined after a period of time to improve the fit.

The success of dentures depends greatly on adequate bone and gum support. If there is very little gum ridge, your dentist may recommend implants to establish a more secure fit.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures can be used when several, but not all teeth are missing. Removable partial dentures usually have replacement teeth attached to pink or gum colored plastic bases connected by a metal framework.

A partial denture can delay the need for a complete denture and the fit is always better. It is important to replace missing teeth and a partial is a good option where a fixed bridge or implants are not protocol. The vast majority of patients have little difficulty adjusting to the appliance.

An Illustrated View

Partial denture replacing back teeth

DENTURES FAQ

Are there alternatives to dentures?

Yes, implants can be used to support permanently cemented bridges, and eliminating the need for a denture. The cost is usually greater, but the implants and bridges more closely resemble the feel of real teeth.

How are dentures made?

The denture development process takes about three to six weeks and several appointments. Following the delivery of the denture, you will need to return periodically for adjustments.

What do new dentures feel like?

New dentures may feel a little odd or loose for a few weeks until the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place and you get comfortable inserting and removing them. It is not unusual for minor irritation or soreness to occur; these problems will diminish as your mouth adjusts to the new denture.

Will eating with new dentures be difficult?

Eating with new dentures will take a little practice and may be uncomfortable for some wearers for a few weeks. To get used to the new denture, start with soft foods and cut them into small pieces. As time goes on, you will be able to introduce harder foods and return to your normal diet.

Will dentures change how I speak?

After you get dentures, you may have difficulty pronouncing certain words. If so, practice by saying the difficult words out loud. With practice and with time, you will become accustomed to speaking properly with your dentures.

Are dentures worn 24 hours a day?

Once your dentist has finished with all of the adjustments for your denture, you should only wear your denture during the day. This allows gum tissue to rest and allows normal stimulation and cleansing by the tongue and saliva.