At Dazzling Dentistry, we specialize in transforming smiles and restoring confidence. Missing teeth can keep you from smiling your best as well as impact your oral health. Restorative dentistry plays a key role in helping patients regain both the function and appearance of their smile. We want you to regain a natural-looking smile and enjoy the benefits of a functional bite. As a result, we offer our Arlington Heights patients dentures to restore their radiant smile.
Understanding Dentures
A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. There are two types of dentures available, including partial and complete dentures. Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain, while complete dentures are used to completely replace all teeth. Dentures are made to resemble your natural teeth so there should be no noticeable change to your appearance. In fact, dentures may even improve your smile!
Complete Dentures
This restoration method is used to restore your smile and mouth function if all your teeth have been lost. The dentures are custom created to resemble natural teeth and are positioned into a patients’ mouth to take the place of where the natural teeth used to be. Complete dentures are removable and may require adjustments in order to create a proper fit with the gums and mouth.
Partial Dentures
A removable partial denture is a device used when one or more natural teeth still remain in the upper or lower jaw. They usually consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base which is held in place in the mouth. This fills the space created by missing teeth, as well as creates a support for remaining teeth to prevent shifting.
Restoring Your Smile with Dentures
Dentures are a time-tested solution for replacing missing teeth. We craft these devices to resemble your natural teeth. As a result, modern dentures offer a seamless blend with your facial features. They help provide a lifelike appearance that restores your smile.
Dentures come with numerous functional benefits.
- Improved Speech: Dentures help you articulate words clearly. When you lose all or some of your teeth, it affects the way you speak. This is because your teeth are necessary to make certain sounds.
- Enhanced Chewing Ability: You can enjoy your favorite foods with confidence. Dentures restore your ability to bite and chew effectively.
- Facial Support: Dentures provide support to facial muscles. As a result, this prevents sagging due to missing teeth. This contributes to a more youthful appearance.
Caring for Your Dentures
Because dentures are artificial teeth, they need special care and attention to do their job. Maintaining your dentures is crucial for longevity and your oral health.
- Brush Daily: It is vital to clean your dentures every single day. Otherwise, plaque and bacteria can grow and thrive in your mouth. Gently brush your dentures with a soft-bristle brush to remove food particles and prevent stains.
- Handle with Care: When cleaning your dentures, place a towel in the sink to avoid damage if the dentures slip from your hands. It is possible to break your dentures. Therefore, you need to handle them carefully when they are not in your mouth.
- Soak Overnight: Keep your dentures moist by soaking them in a denture solution overnight. You need to take your dentures out every night to give your gums and jawbones a break. Otherwise, you can begin to develop sores or deterioration. Furthermore, this step keeps your mouth healthy.
FAQs about Dentures
Receiving dentures is a relatively straightforward process. Yet, patients may have other questions or concerns.
Q: Do dentures hurt?
A: Your dentures shouldn’t hurt when you wear them. However, the first few days or weeks will come with some mild discomfort. This is an adjustment period for your gums and jaws. Most patients should adapt within a few weeks.
Q: Will dentures affect my ability to eat certain foods?
A: Initially, it is best to stick to soft foods. You can gradually reintroduce harder items. With time, you should regain the ability to enjoy a diverse range of foods.
Q: How often should I replace my dentures?
A: Dentures typically last 5-7 years. However, regular dental checkups will help assess their condition. Your dentist will advise you on when you should replace them.