Dentures are false teeth used to replace missing natural teeth. Unlike implants, dentures can be taken in and out of your mouth. Dentures are a natural looking restorative dental option and they are becoming more and more comfortable. Dentures are often made with porcelain and have many benefits including:
- Have a natural looking appearance
- Feel very similar to natural teeth
- Are durable compared to other denture materials
Although they are often associated with older patients, dentures are a viable option for anyone with missing teeth. At Alachua Family Dentistry, we believe that having a nice, full smile is not only good for your health but also your confidence!
Why You Might Need Dentures
There are several reasons someone might need dentures. Some of the warning signs include:
- Toothaches – Toothaches can be a sign of tooth decay. If you have prolonged pain, come see your dentist and get your teeth checked.
- Prolonged gingivitis – While gingivitis is treatable, if left unchecked or unaddressed it can lead to tooth decay and missing teeth. If you have bleeding or sore gums, come into the dentist.
- Poor oral health – Proper brushing, flossing, and bi-yearly check-ups with your dentist is the best way to protect your natural teeth. If you don’t take care of your teeth there is a good chance that you may lose them.
While it may seem obvious, missing teeth is the biggest reason you should consider dentures. Missing teeth don’t only affect your smile, but it can also affect your health. Having all of your teeth keeps your facial muscles from sagging, helps you eat, promotes healthy digestion, and eases your ability to speak.
Types of Dentures
There are several types of dentures that you can have. Depending on what your dental needs are, one of our dentists would be happy to recommend a specific type of denture for your mouth. Typically dentures are broken down into three categories:
- Conventional – Conventional dentures are a full set of partial teeth. Your remaining natural teeth are pulled, and then dentures are fitted to your top and bottom jaw, making room for your tongue.
- Immediate – Immediate dentures are temporary and usually go in before you are fit for a set of conventional dentures. Once your teeth are pulled, you are given a set of immediate dentures so that you can eat while your jaw heals.
- Overdenture – Overdentures are an alternative to dental implants and aren’t a full set of teeth. They fill in gaps in your smile and are used in concert with your good, natural teeth.
How Are Dentures Installed?
Dentures have a simple, but effective installation process to ensure that your dentures will serve you best. Usually, you can be fitted for dentures with only a couple of visits to our office.
- Impressions are made of your jaw and measurements are taken to determine the space between your jaws. It’s important that we know how your upper and lower jaw relates to one another.
- Models, wax molds, or plastic patterns are created and then worn by the patient to determine the best possible fit. The final product will be crafted out of porcelain or resin.
- Adjustments are made as necessary to ensure that the dentures fit tightly and are as comfortable as possible.
To determine the best fit, adjustments may need to be made. You want to make sure that the dentures don’t slip or loosen in your mouth. They should feel as natural as possible.
Visit Alachua Family Dentistry For Your Best Dentures
If you are considering dentures, you’ll want the most comfortable fit. Our dentists are experienced to help you determine if dentures are right for you. Our team knows the value of a good smile, and our practice values cosmetic dentistry.
Give us a call to schedule a consultation to determine if dentures are the right fit for you!
