When you have multiple missing teeth, permanent replacements like implants, crowns, and bridges may not be an option for you. Dentures are a replacement for your missing teeth. They can be removed or replaced as you wish. Our office provides patients with both full and partial dentures.
Full dentures are used when all of your natural teeth are missing from your upper and/or lower jaws. If you need full dentures, you have two options: conventional dentures and immediate dentures.
Immediate dentures are made prior to having your teeth removed and allow you to avoid any time without teeth. Dr. Robertson will take impressions and measurements, then send those to a dental lab. The lab will use them to make dentures that fit your mouth perfectly. These dentures will be placed in your mouth immediately after your teeth are removed. We will need to see you for a follow up visit to reline your dentures once your mouth heals, as the healing process can make your dentures loose.
On the other hand, conventional dentures are made after the teeth are removed and the gums and underlying bone are fully healed. Although you’ll have to spend a few weeks without teeth, allowing time for the gums to heal will help the dentures fit better. You probably won’t need as many adjustments or relines as those with immediate dentures do. Conventional dentures are also used to replace a worn or broken set of dentures.
If all of your teeth don’t need to be removed, you can choose removable partial dentures. Partial dentures have clasps that attach to the surrounding teeth and hold the partial in place. For the clasps, you have the option of metal, which is stronger and longer lasting, or a flexible material called Valplast, which is gum colored for a more natural look.
Whether you have full or partial dentures, it’s crucial to keep both your dentures and your mouth in good shape. Be sure to take them out before bed each night. It will help to keep your gums and supporting bones healthy, and if you have a partial, it will help preserve your remaining teeth. Dentures can hold onto plaque and food particles like natural teeth do, so it’s important to brush them regularly. Once they’ve been brushed, place them directly into room temperature water or a denture cleaning solution. Be careful not to use hot water, which may cause the dentures to warp. Never try to adjust them by yourself. They’ve very delicate and you don’t want to ruin them.
If you have any questions about full or partial dentures, please give us a call! Our friendly, knowledgeable staff will talk you through your options and help you make the right choice.
