Wayne Family Dentistry offers several types of dentures in Wayne, PA to address tooth loss. If you are missing multiple permanent teeth, dentures or partial dentures are a great dental option for you. As a restorative dentistry treatment, they help renew the appearance and function of the smile. Our dentures are made from high-quality, state of the art dental materials that look and function like natural teeth. They are an affordable and effective solution for missing teeth that can last for many year if they are taken care of properly.
Removable Dentures
Removable dentures are the standard way to replace missing teeth as well as the surrounding soft tissue in the mouth. They can replace a few teeth or an entire row of teeth that are missing due to trauma, gum disease, or tooth decay. Patients who choose removable traditional dentures are able to remove their false teeth at will. They are not permanently secured in place in any way. This makes them easier to clean but it also makes them less stable. There are two basic types of traditional, removable dentures: partial dentures and full dentures. Partial dentures replace several lost teeth on the upper or lower jaw. Full dentures restore an entire upper and/or lower arches of teeth. Replacing missing teeth with a dental restoration helps prevent problems like shifting teeth, tooth decay, and gum disease.
Partial Denture
A partial denture is meant to replace some, but not all, of your natural teeth. The framework is made out of metal or acrylic that supports false teeth. It will be custom made from impressions of your mouth so it will fit perfectly. This will ensure a secure and comfortable fit. The false teeth will be attached to the framework and will blend in naturally with the rest of your teeth.
A partial denture will either have metal clasps that grip remaining teeth or precision attachments to hold it securely in place. This will help restore your smile allowing you to smile with confidence again. A partial will help prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of place and disrupting your bite. They will help restore some of your chewing abilities and allow you to speak more clearly.
Full Denture
A traditional full denture will replace all of your teeth on the top or bottom arch. They consist of an acrylic base that matches the shade of gum tissue with the false teeth attached to it. We will obtain impressions of your mouth to create them to ensure they fit perfectly and comfortably. Your false teeth are carefully chosen to match your facial structure.
Full dentures remain in place through natural suction which involves saliva. If additional retention is required, you can also add denture adhesive. By replacing a whole row of teeth, you will find it is easier to speak, eat, and your smile will be complete. However, this prosthetic is typically bulky and requires some time to adjust to.
The Downside to Removable Dentures
There are a few negatives when it comes to removable dentures. They have the possibility to cause some discomfort especially as you adjust to wearing them. Since they simply rest on the gums, they can rub against them causing discomfort and sores.
It can also be difficult to eat while wearing dentures. Since they are not as stable as natural teeth, it is hard to chew certain kinds of foods. This can limit the type of foods you are allowed to consume in your diet. As a new denture wearer, you will have to relearn how to eat and chew food properly.
Denture wearers will have to deal with inevitable bone loss that occurs after tooth loss. When a tooth goes missing, so does the root. This will cause the bone to deteriorate and will change how your dentures fit. Because of this, your dentures will have to adjusted often.
How to Care for Your Dentures
Caring for your dentures is the most important part of having them. They require regular maintenance, cleaning, and proper handling. Even though they are false teeth, dentures can still accumulate plaque which can contribute to oral health diseases. Properly cleaning them will prevent you from developing gum disease. Maintaining them by making necessary repairs or adjustments will ensure they are functioning properly. We advise you do the following things to ensure your dentures last for many years and remain comfortable:
- Cleaning them Daily: Dentures require daily cleaning to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria. You should rinse them after every meal. Dentures also require a daily brushing. You will need to use a soft-bristle toothbrush or denture brush with mild soap, denture cleaner, or non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Soak them Overnight: Soak your dentures in water or a denture cleaning solution while you are sleeping. Removing them every night to soak them accomplishes several things. It helps keep them moist, it prevents warping, and it allows your gums to rest.
- Stay Hydrated: Keep yourself hydrated throughout the day to prevent dry mouth, which can affect the fit and comfort of dentures.
- Keep your Mouth Clean: Even if you are missing a lot of teeth, oral hygiene is still very important. You will need to brush your gums, tongue, and palate with a soft bristle toothbrush twice a day to remove bacteria from your mouth. This will also help stimulate circulation as well as keep your oral health in check.
- Handle them with Care: Dentures can break easily if dropped or mishandled. You should remove them or put them in over a towel or sink full of water to prevent breakage if you accidently drop them. Also, do not force them in or out to prevent bending and breaking them.
- Avoid Hot Water: Never use hot water when caring for or cleaning your dentures. Hot liquids can cause them to warp and lose their shape.
- Schedule Regular Dental Appointments: Even if you are in perfect oral health, you need to visit your dentist on a regular basis. This will ensure your dentures fit properly. They can also spot any potential issues and can monitor the health of your gums and oral tissues.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Dental implants provide stability and security to patients who want a long-lasting restoration for their missing teeth. Unlike removable dentures, implant-secured dentures do not slip. With implants, patients can eat, speak, and enjoy life without any discomfort or instability.
Before treatment, we always make sure that our patients are in good oral health. Patients who choose implants will need sufficient bone tissue to support the implant posts. We may recommend bone grafting for patients to become candidates for implant treatment.
To begin, we take impressions of the teeth to fabricate the dentures and crowns. We will determine where to place the implants to secure the denture. Then, an oral surgeon will insert the dental implant screws into strategic areas of the mouth. Over a 3 to 6 month period, the implants fuse to the jawbone. This creates a stable foundation for the dentures.
Frequently Asked Questions
We will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about dentures and partials.
How long do dentures last?
Dentures usually last about 5-10 years. Over time, your mouth changes shape, causing the dentures to fit less comfortably. Moreover, they may also wear down from daily use. You might need adjustments or replacements as your mouth changes. Good oral hygiene and careful handling can extend your dentures’ lifespan.
How soon after extraction can I get dentures?
The timeline for receiving dentures after tooth extraction can vary. Dentists can place dentures right after extraction. These temporary dentures help you adjust to wearing them. However, for permanent dentures, we usually wait 6-8 weeks. This allows your gums to heal and reshape. During this time, we’ll monitor your healing and take impressions for your final dentures. The wait ensures a better fit and more comfortable permanent dentures.
How many teeth do you need for dentures?
You don’t need any teeth for complete dentures. They replace all the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. If you still have some natural teeth, you might get partial dentures to fill in gaps. Partial dentures can be a good solution if you have several healthy teeth left that can help anchor the denture. We’ll assess your situation and recommend the best option.
Can you sleep with your dentures in?
It’s best to remove your dentures while sleeping. This can help prevent infections and give your gums a rest. Removing dentures at night also allows you to clean them thoroughly. If you must wear them overnight occasionally, ensure they’re clean. However, regular nightly removal promotes better oral health and extends the life of your dentures.
Does insurance cover dentures?
Many dental insurance plans cover dentures, but the extent of the coverage varies. Some plans might cover a percentage of the cost. Other plans, however, might have a fixed amount or specific limitations. Patients should carefully review their policies and consider coverage limits and potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Can you whiten dentures?
You can’t whiten dentures like natural teeth. However, you can clean them to keep them looking their best. You can use a denture-specific cleaner and a soft brush to remove stains and plaque daily. You should also avoid using regular toothpaste. Moreover, soaking dentures overnight with a cleaning solution can also help maintain their appearance. If your dentures become heavily stained or discolored, your dentist may be able to clean them or recommend other solutions.
How long does it take to get partial dentures?
Getting partial dentures takes about 6-8 weeks from start to finish. The process involves several appointments for impressions, measurements, and fittings. The dental lab usually needs 2-3 weeks to make the denture. Your dentist can give you an accurate timeline based on your case.
Schedule an Appointment for Dentures in Wayne PA
Are you interested in treatment with implant-supported dentures? Contact Wayne Family Dentistry for treatment today at 610-347-5133. You may also feel free to request an appointment with our dental team online.