Smile Confidently Again With Dentures
At Polished Dental Care, we’re committed to providing individualized dental solutions in a comfortable and judgement-free environment. For patients who’ve experienced tooth loss from periodontal disease, a dental injury, or simply aging, dentures are a wonderful and practical solution. Dentures are (often) removable, artificial teeth that replace natural teeth and are available in both partial or full sets, based on your oral health needs.
If you’ve suffered tooth loss for any reason and are having trouble chewing or feel hesitant to smile, we can help. Give us a call at (616) 698-6663 or visit us online to schedule your denture fitting today!
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What Are Removable Dentures?
Removable dentures are removable artificial teeth made of either acrylic resin or porcelain that look just like your real teeth. They are virtually painless, easy to use and can last 7-10 years with proper care, according to the American Dental Association (ADA).
There are three main types of removable dentures:
- Full: Full dentures rest on your gums and stay in place with a gentle, natural suction. Some patients choose to use a denture adhesive for extra security.
- Partial: Partial dentures are matched to your remaining teeth for a seamless look, and are anchored with small clasps or precision attachments.
- Snap-In: Implant-retained dentures are attached to dental implants placed in your jawbone. Because they “snap” securely into place, they’re often referred to as “snap-in” dentures.
Benefits of Dentures
Dentures offer a number of life-enhancing benefits, including:
- Improved Chewing: Dentures restore much of your natural chewing ability, so you can enjoy your favorite foods again.
- Clearer Speech: Missing teeth can make certain words hard to pronounce. Dentures fill those gaps, helping you speak more clearly and confidently in conversations.
- Enhanced Confidence: A complete, natural-looking smile can make it easier to smile, laugh, and socialize without hesitation.
- Better Nutrition: Being able to chew properly ensures you can eat balanced meals that support your overall health.
- Facial Muscle Support: Those who’ve lost teeth sometimes experience a “sunken” look to their face. Dentures help fill out your facial structure, giving you a full and vibrant appearance.
- Protection for Remaining Teeth: Partial dentures keep your existing teeth from shifting out of place, so you can maintain a healthier bite.
What About Permanent (Fixed) Dentures?
Did you know there is also a permanent denture option? Some patients choose these implant-supported, or permanent dentures, because they provide the most natural feel, chewing strength, and long-term stability. Fixed dentures are secured to implants with screws or cement and can only be removed by your dentist.
Dr. White will always review your oral health history and discuss your lifestyle with you before making a denture recommendation. Together, you will make the best decision based on your needs.
Signs It’s Time for Dentures
Deciding to get dentures involves a proper oral health evaluation and thorough discussion with your dentist. You should start the denture conversation with Dr. White if you experience the following signs:
- Missing Multiple Teeth: Gaps in your smile can have greater effects on your health, impacting the ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. Dentures restore function and appearance.
- Chronic Toothaches: Persistent pain may be a sign of advanced decay or infection. If decayed teeth can’t be saved, a denture fitting may be on the horizon.
- Loose or Shifting Teeth: Teeth that move easily often indicate advanced gum disease and bone loss. Dentures may be the best long-term solution.
- Difficulty Chewing: If you’re having trouble eating, loose, broken or worn-down teeth could be to blame. Dentures restore your ability to eat comfortably, ensuring proper nutrition.
The Denture Fitting Process
The idea of getting dentures may feel overwhelming, but the process is simpler than most patients expect. At Polished Dental Care, Dr. White takes extra care to ensure every step is comfortable and personalized to your needs.
Here’s what you can expect:
Initial Consultation
Dr. White will examine your teeth, gums, and jaw to determine if dentures are the right solution. Next, she’ll discuss your options with you. Together, you’ll decide whether partial, full, implant-retained or permanent dentures are the best solution for you.
Impressions or Scans
Next, we take a detailed mold or digital scan of your mouth to create a precise model. This ensures your dentures fit securely and comfortably.
Try-In Phase
Before your final dentures are made, we may have you try on a wax model to check for comfort, fit, and appearance. Then, we’ll make some adjustments so the final set looks and feels perfect.
Final Fitting
Once your dentures are ready, we’ll give you a call to come in for a final fitting. That’s when we’ll make any final touches to ensure they feel comfortable and function properly.
Follow-Up Visits
It’s normal to experience a short adjustment period to your new dentures. Most patients start getting used to talking and chewing within just a few weeks. For some, it may take longer to feel completely natural. In these cases, some small tweaks might be needed. Your comfort is our top priority! Our office schedules follow-up visits to check back in with you and ensure your dentures are snug and comfortable.
Note: The process for permanent dentures is a bit longer, because it involves first getting implants (its own process altogether). Dr. White will go over each step in detail during the discussion phase.
How to Care for Your Dentures
For the most comfortable fit – and to keep your dentures as long as possible – it’s critical to care for them properly.
Remember to:
- Clean them daily, brushing gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive cleanser. Never use toothpaste on your dentures!
- Soak them overnight in water or a recommended solution. Dentures have to stay moist so they don’t lose their shape.
- Always rinse them after meals to prevent buildup.
- Handle your dentures carefully. Tip: Clean them over a towel or sink of water so they don’t break in case you drop them. (It happens!)
- Bring your dentures to checkups so Dr. White can examine the fit and wear. Making small adjustments as needed will extend the overall lifespan of your dentures.
Are You Ready for Dentures? Contact Us to Learn More.
Don’t let tooth loss hold you back from enjoying life. Whether you’re missing a few teeth or need a full set, dentures can help you regain your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence again. Conveniently located in Grand Rapids, MI, our dental office provides customized solutions that fit comfortably and look natural. So you can feel like yourself again. Schedule your denture consultation today by calling our Grand Rapids office at (616) 698-6663 or request an appointment online.Ready To Schedule Your Dentist Appointment?
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