Thanks to wonderful advancements in dental technology and products, tooth loss, decay or disease no longer present the limited choices of years past. Whether you are faced with the loss of one or a couple of teeth, or possibly the prospect of replacing your entire upper or lower arch, dentures offers a range of options for your consideration.
Partial dentures are intended for patients that have lost one or a couple of teeth. A partial denture will be designed by your dentist to match the shape and shade of surrounding teeth and will require healthy abutment teeth to secure the partial denture.
A full or complete denture is for the patient who has no teeth in either the upper or lower arch. For a conventional denture, your dentist will fabricate a wax model to help determine the best options for you. Upon satisfactory completion of your wax-up, it will be sent to the dental lab where your denture will be made.
An immediate denture is placed during the same visit as your tooth extraction. The advantage to an immediate denture is you are not without your teeth for even one day. However, when tooth loss occurs, the patient will usually experience some shrinkage in gum tissue. A denture immediately placed might require more adjustments as healing of gum tissue takes place.
Many patients feel that the loss of a tooth is no big deal. However, many issues, such as teeth shifting toward an open space, can create problems with dental occlusion. This can lead to grinding, clenching, uneven wear and tear and discomfort. A missing tooth can impact eating, speaking and appearance. Replacing one or several lost teeth can make a critical difference in day-to-day living.
Taking good care of your denture will enhance its appearance and longevity. For a partial wearer, brushing and flossing your natural teeth before putting in your partial denture is the appropriate procedure. Never make adjustments to your partial on your own, for this will only weaken the part of the denture you rely on to keep it in place.
A denture should never be boiled or bleached to clean it. These actions can ruin a denture. A soft bristle brush and a mild cleanser is all that is needed to keep a denture looking its best.
If you are considering dentures or want more information on how they can benefit you, contact our office at 701-255-2647 today to schedule your consultation.
