COMPLETE AND PARTIAL DENTURES

 

If you suffer from tooth loss, we may be able to restore your appearance and chewing function with dentures. There’s no need to be embarrassed here; over 40 million Americans have lost all of their teeth.  But don’t wait long to replace missing teeth to avoid other complications.

 

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What is a denture?

Dentures are custom-made to replace the entire top or bottom arch of your teeth. Dentures stay in place with natural suction or denture adhesive, even when chewing or speaking. Synthetic teeth attached to a base that resembles your natural gums make dentures a practical way to restore a smile.  

 

In addition to making your smile look better, dentures also improve the overall function of your mouth. Dentures support your cheeks and lips to reduce the sagging of the muscles in your face. This critical underlying structure gives a more youthful appearance. Please discuss the various types of dentures with Dr. Maney to determine what’s right for you.

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What are some of the different types of dentures?

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Conventional Complete Dentures

A conventional complete denture is a custom-made, removable replacement for all of the teeth in the arch. An upper (maxillary) denture covers the roof of your mouth and fits securely on your upper gums and palate. A lower (mandibular) denture fits over the lower gums and features a horseshoe shape with space for the tongue.

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A conventional complete denture only functions if all the teeth in the arch are missing. This type of denture can be placed once the teeth have been removed and the gums heal.

 

Implant-Supported Complete Dentures

Similar to conventional complete dentures, implant-supported complete dentures replace all of your natural teeth. Instead of relying solely on the oral soft tissues, this type of denture uses several implants to keep them secure. Implants are surgically placed into the gums, and the denture snaps securely into place. The implants also stimulate the jawbone so that it won’t deteriorate over time. It may take several months for the implants to integrate into the bone and support a denture.

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Immediate Dentures

Immediate dentures are similar to conventional dentures, but they’re placed immediately after removing any remaining teeth. You don’t have to wait for your gums to heal before wearing an immediate denture. This process typically involves multiple appointments after placement so that Dr. Maney can make adjustments once your gums fully heal. Immediate dentures include specific post-op instructions that the team will review with you.

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Partial Dentures

Removable partial dentures replace a few missing teeth as opposed to an entire arch.  They’re constructed from acrylic on a metal framework that attaches to adjacent teeth for support.  Natural-looking teeth fill in the gaps and match the color of your existing teeth, and they’re connected to a base that resembles your gums.  Partials include the added benefit of keeping your natural teeth from shifting out of place and restoring your bite.

 

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Benefits of replacing missing teeth

Replacing your teeth carries many benefits. A complete smile boosts your confidence and improves your oral health. A restored smile also preserves your facial structure, keeps your natural teeth from drifting, enhances your ability to speak, and establishes your bite for chewing and jaw comfort.

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How do I take care of my dentures?

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Handle Delicately

Although they’re made for chewing, dentures can break if they’re dropped only a few inches. Do not place dentures in hot water because heat can warp the material. 
 

Store Properly

When not wearing your dentures, you must store them in water, so they don’t dry out and lose their shape. It’s essential to keep your dentures in a safe place away from pets or children to prevent potential damage. 

 

What foods can I eat when I have dentures?

While modern dentures allow you to eat most foods, hard, chewy, or abrasive foods deserve a little extra care. Hot foods held in your mouth can cause dentures to warp. Be aware that dark foods can stain your dentures, and prompt cleaning after eating or drinking can help maintain their natural color. 

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Cleaning Your Dentures

Like your natural teeth, dentures need thorough cleaning. To remove loose food particles, take out your dentures and rinse with cool water. Use a special denture brush or a soft-bristled toothbrush with a denture cleaner with the American Dental Association’s standards for effectiveness and safety to thoroughly clean your dentures. After you’re finished brushing your dentures, rinse them one final time with cool water to remove any leftover cleaner. 

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Toothpaste or hard-bristled toothbrushes may be too abrasive to clean dentures. The materials dentures used to create dentures are more delicate than your natural teeth and gums. These choices often increase wear-and-tear on your dentures and make them less attractive, more susceptible to stains, and harder to clean. 

 

Even if you have dentures, you should still clean the inside of your mouth with a soft-bristle brush. This practice helps remove bacteria and prevents plaque formation. 

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Visit the Dentist

Even if you’re missing all or most of your teeth, visit us twice a year to ensure your dentures and mouth are functioning together correctly.  Besides checking the fit of your dentures, Dr. Maney will also examine your mouth for oral diseases, including fungal infections.  

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Do you think you need dentures? Give Beechmont Smiles a call at (513) 231-9610 today to schedule an appointment at our office in the Mt. Washington neighborhood of Cincinnati!