Dentures
Dental Implants Houston
 Dentures are a removable prosthesis of two or more teeth. It is very rare that dentures are used to replace just one tooth. In many cases, the supporting bone structures of your teeth, known as the alveolar bone, deteriorates. This hard tissue must be replaced to prevent further orthodontic issues and will require a larger denture. Full or partial dentures can help restore the function and appearance of your teeth.
Alexandra Garcia, DDS, MS is here to help you have a healthy smile. Restoring your smile and quality of life can be a very exciting time. One of our dentists can assess your condition, and go over treatment plans with you to provide the best of care. While dentures are available, for some people alternative treatments are preferable.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures are a full set of teeth for the top jaw, bottom jaw, or both. These dentures can be installed in two ways, conventional or immediate. When installing dentures, one or more teeth may need to be removed so the denture can be placed in the mouth.
With a conventional complete denture, the gums need eight to 12 weeks to heal before the denture can be positioned in the mouth. Immediate complete dentures can be positioned as soon as the teeth are removed. The patient doesn't have to go through the healing period without teeth. The physical after-effects of losing all teeth in one jaw is that the gums and alveolar bones shrink.
Patients with immediate dentures will need multiple visits to the dentist during their healing process to readjust the denture so it fits properly. Immediate dentures should only be used as a temporary solution until a complete denture can be made. Complete dentures are usually made from acrylic resin, with either acrylic or porcelain teeth. Porcelain teeth last longer than acrylic teeth, which wear away more easily. Acrylic resin is light and cost-effective. Acrylic adheres to the base of the denture more securely and is easier to adjust.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used to replace one or more missing teeth, rather than an entire row. It can be used in place of a dental bridge. The two most common materials for partials are cast metal and flexible acrylic.
Cast metal partials consist of replacement teeth made from either acrylic or porcelain, with acrylic gums surrounding the tooth, supported by a cast metal framework. Two or more metal clasps hold the denture in place, cast metal partials are ideal for long-term use.
Flexible acrylic dentures are considered to be more aesthetically pleasing. They consist of porcelain or acrylic teeth, with acrylic gums, and attach to the teeth using pink acrylic clasps and an acrylic framing.
Partial dentures can be used for a long time, but are prone to degradation, cracking, or chipping. A damaged partial may have to be replaced altogether if damaged.
Dental Implants Are an Option
Dental implants can reduce the atrophy of alveolar bone structure and if done early, dentures may not be necessary later in life. Many people may not be eligible for dental implants depending on their jaw structure.
If you are considering dentures or implants, Alexandra Garcia, DDS, MS can help you. One of our dentists can discuss options with you and recommend the best treatment plan. Reach out to us at (346) 250-2930 for more information and to find out which treatment is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQS) we receive from our patients regarding dentures and tooth loss:
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are an effective solution for missing teeth. If you are missing teeth, dentures can help restore your function and appearance. Complete dentures replace all of the lost teeth in one jaw while a partial replacement is used if only some of them have been lost. Dentures are worn to replace any type of tooth that has become loose enough for a person's natural chewing ability to be affected by it—whether this happens gradually over time because of periodontal disease or following an injury.
Who Needs Dentures?
Several factors like accidents, genetic disorders, or advanced stages of tooth decay could lead to massive tooth loss. The ordeal does not, however, need to rob you of your smile since dentures can offer the perfect solution - whether partial or full dentures. If the gap left from missing teeth causes unease while eating or speaking, you may want to seek dentures to ensure a full smile.
What Types of Dentures are Available?
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures may consist of a plastic base or a metal frame that holds the replacement missing teeth. They often consisted of a plastic base or metal frame that holds the replacement missing teeth. They stay in place with metal clasps that clip over the tooth on either side of the gap.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures are held in place by forming a seal with the gums. They can also be affixed to dental implants that are placed surgically in the jawbone.
Healing Dentures
Plastic dentures tend to be temporary and are known as healing dentures. They are lighter than their metallic counterparts and allow for your gums and jawbone to heal after any extractions you may have had.
How Do I Know if I Need Dentures?
Individuals may need dentures if they experience severe tooth decay, gum disease, or tooth loss due to injury or age-related issues. Signs that dentures are needed include difficulty chewing, speaking, or persistent oral pain. Patients can benefit from dentures because they restore proper oral function, improve speech clarity, enhance facial aesthetics, and boost confidence in social interactions.
Are Dentures Comfortable?
Dentures can vary in comfort depending on factors such as fit, materials, and individual tolerance. While some wearers find them comfortable and adaptable, others may experience initial discomfort or need adjustments for optimal fit. Advances in denture technology, including softer materials and custom fittings, aim to enhance comfort levels for users. |
