Patients rarely choose to go completely toothless if all of their natural teeth have been lost to decay or extracted. Failing to replace the teeth can make a person look older, and it can affect patients’ nutrition, too.
Dentures offer an economical method for replacing teeth in edentulous patients.
Are you worried that wearing a set of dentures means that you’ll have to endure endless discomfort and frequent embarrassing slip-ups? Don’t be. The technology used in designing dentures has improved drastically since the days of the one-size-fits-all devices that your grandparents wore.
These days, dentures are custom-designed to fit within the unique structure of each patient’s mouth. After extracting any remaining teeth, your dentist here in Grand Prairie will take impressions of your jaw, which will then be used to craft the denture, which is made of a durable acrylic material.
The shade and shape of the “teeth” can match that of your natural teeth, or you can take advantage of dentures as an opportunity to improve upon your smile.
If you need prosthetics to replace the teeth in both your upper and lower arches, you should also be fitted for both at the same time to ensure that they fit together well.
You may feel that the dentures don’t fit properly during the first few weeks of wear. However, that sensation should decrease over time. If you notice any ongoing discomfort while wearing your dentures or if they don’t fit properly after several weeks of wear, contact Dr. Maxey or Dr. George to adjust them.
Of course, you will get the most from your dentures if you care for them properly at home. After you’ve gone through your initial adjustment period, you should remove your dentures at night and soak them. This gives your mouth a chance to rest. Brush your tongue and gums in the morning before putting your dentures back in to clear away harmful bacteria.
If you need to replace all of your teeth or an entire upper or lower arch, contact our office to ask if dentures are an option for you.
From Our Blog:
Common Questions About Dentures
The leading cause of tooth loss is gum disease. This infection of gingival (gum) tissue can become severe without proper oral hygiene and professional treatment. When gum disease advances, tartar will accumulate below the gum line and along the roots of teeth. Over time, this accumulation of tartar will separate teeth from their support structures (gums and bone) causing them to loosen and eventually fall out. Tooth loss is caused by other factors, too such as extensive decay and traumatic injury to the mouth. Read More…
Types of Dentures
Although teeth are meant to last a lifetime, many patients begin losing teeth in adulthood for a variety of reasons. As we age, our teeth become weaker and more vulnerable to injury and disease. Our dentist understands that tooth loss happens and can negatively affect a patient’s overall wellbeing and oral health. Since tooth loss has far-reaching effects on a patient’s quality of life, our team is proud to offer a variety of custom made dentures to help restore oral function and improve quality of life. Read More…
How long will my dentures last?
There is not an expiration date issued for the duration of any dental work. Some patients may enjoy a longer life for their dentures. Many things can impact the longevity of dental work: the overall health of the patient at the time of treatment, the individual’s dental health, and the care the patient extends to their oral dentition and restoration.
Your dentist will consult with you and provide your best options to deal with your tooth loss. When dentures are advised, there are several considerations. How many teeth are being replaced? Will a partial or complete denture be required?
A partial denture can be used when the patient has lost just one or a couple of teeth. A partial denture can be made to affix to the adjacent teeth, which is called a removable partial denture. When the patient wants to enjoy a more permanent solution to tooth loss, an implant supported prosthesis can be placed. Read More…