Dentures & Partial Dentures
Dentures & Partial Dentures
Benefits of Dentures & Partial Dentures
Dentures and partial dentures are removable dental prosthetics designed to replace missing teeth and restore function and appearance for dental patients. They are typically made of acrylic, metal, or a combination of both materials, and are custom-fitted to the patient’s mouth.
Dentures
Also known as complete or full dentures, these prosthetic devices replace all of the teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw. They consist of a gum-colored acrylic base that supports a full set of artificial teeth. Complete dentures rely on suction, adhesives, or dental implants for stability and are removable for cleaning and maintenance.
Partial dentures
These prosthetic devices are used when a patient still has some natural teeth remaining. Partial dentures consist of a metal or acrylic framework with artificial teeth attached to it. They are held in place by clasps or precision attachments that connect to the adjacent natural teeth. Like complete dentures, partial dentures are removable for cleaning and maintenance.
Dentures and partial dentures can help dental patients in several ways:
Restoring function
Dentures and partial dentures enable patients to chew and eat more effectively, improving their overall nutrition and digestive health.
Enhancing speech
Missing teeth can make speaking difficult and cause a person to slur or mispronounce words. Dentures and partial dentures can improve speech by providing the necessary support for the lips, cheeks, and tongue.
Improving appearance
Replacing missing teeth with dentures or partial dentures can significantly improve a person’s appearance, making them look younger and feel more confident.
In this day and age, there are a variety of options for tooth loss. For many, dentures are still the preferred solution.
Some reasons to consider dentures:
- In most cases, no surgery is required
- Often more affordable than other options
- Easy to remove or replace (What to do if you damage your dentures?)
- Easy to clean & maintain
- A natural-looking way to improve facial structure & youthfulness
- Improve quality of life
Many still think of dentures as the clunky, fake-looking contraptions of the past, but they have come a long way. They are both realistic and comfortable (though an adjustment period is needed). Our patients are consistently thrilled by their new smiles, and it’s a joy to see. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start on the road to the new and improved you.
Call (408) 270-4333 to schedule an appointment or complete the form below. If you need more info, contact us directly.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
Dentures & Partial Dentures
Dentures are prosthetic devices used to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are made of artificial teeth and gums, and are custom-fitted to your mouth. They can be removed and cleaned, and are designed to fit snugly over your gums.
The lifespan of dentures can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the quality of the materials, the level of care given to them, and the individual’s oral hygiene habits. Generally, dentures can last anywhere from 5-10 years, although some people may need to replace them sooner.
The process for getting dentures typically involves several appointments with your dentist. The first step is usually to take impressions of your mouth, which will be used to create a mold of your teeth and gums. From there, the dentures will be custom-fabricated to fit your mouth precisely. Once the dentures are ready, you will have another appointment to have them fitted and adjusted for comfort.
Partial dentures are similar to full dentures, but they are designed to replace only a few missing teeth, rather than an entire set. They are also custom-fitted to your mouth and can be removed for cleaning.
While it may take some time to get used to eating with dentures, most people are able to resume a normal diet after a period of adjustment. It is important to start with soft foods and to chew slowly and carefully. Avoid sticky or hard foods, as they can damage your dentures.
To care for your dentures, it is important to rinse them after eating to remove any food particles. You should also brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and denture cleaner every day to remove stains and bacteria. When you are not wearing your dentures, they should be stored in water or a denture cleaning solution to prevent them from drying out.
In most cases, dentures can be repaired if they are damaged. However, it is important to have them repaired by a qualified dentist or denture technician to ensure that they are properly aligned and fit correctly. Attempting to repair dentures yourself can cause further damage and may result in the need for replacement.
If you have several missing teeth or if your existing teeth are damaged or decayed to the point where they cannot be saved, dentures may be a good option for you. Your dentist can evaluate your oral health and make recommendations based on your specific needs. It is important to address missing teeth as soon as possible, as they can lead to a variety of oral health problems if left untreated.
