Dentures are popular restorations for replacing missing teeth. These oral prostheses were the standard for replacing missing teeth for decades until other options, like implants and bridges, emerged.
Dentures consist of a framework that rests on the wearer’s gums and artificial teeth that replace the missing ones. Dentures are held in place via suction. In addition, denture adhesives may create a better fit. There are two main types of traditional dentures: partial and full. Partial dentures serve those who are missing a few teeth, while full dentures serve those who need to replace an entire arch or all their teeth.
Reasons to consider getting dentures
Though traditional dentures are not for everyone, there are many compelling reasons a patient can have for choosing them over newer teeth replacement options. Here is a closer look at a few reasons a patient might choose traditional dentures.
The patient is not healthy enough for surgery
Other ways to replace missing teeth, like implants, require minor oral surgery. For many people, this is not a huge deal. Still, for those dealing with issues like immune system disorders and diabetes, such health conditions can make it more difficult to heal after surgery and increase the risk of complications. Dentists evaluate these patients on a case-by-case basis, and the dentist might recommend other options if the risks are too great.
Dentures are a great missing tooth solution for anyone who is not healthy enough for oral surgery. Getting fitted for one is non-invasive and does not require any surgical procedures or cause any pain. Instead, the dentist takes an impression of the person’s teeth and sends it to technicians at a lab that makes dentures.
The patient wants faster results
Replacing teeth with dental implants is a huge time commitment. Getting a dental implant is still a long process for the ideal patient with healthy gums and ample jawbone support. Typically, the patient has to wait for 3 to 6 months for the implant to merge with the jawbone in an osseointegration process. This process needs to finish before the dentist places the final restoration. However, if a patient needs any bone or gum grafting to be ready for the implant procedure, this could add months to an already long process.
With dentures, the dentist can restore a person’s smile in as little as two weeks. Two weeks is the time it takes for a dental lab to make the prosthesis and return it to the dentist. The patient learns how to insert, remove, and clean their dentures during the second appointment, and the traditional denture process is complete. Getting implants can take six months or longer because of all that needs to occur during the treatment. Dentures provide a faster solution for people who would rather not wait long for replacement teeth.
The patient wants a relatively inexpensive option
Though dental implants have many benefits, they can be costly. Getting dentures is an economical way to replace missing teeth, making them an option for those working with a limited budget. The cost of a full denture set can be less than the price of a single implant or one of the crowns used to cover teeth used to anchor a dental bridge. The affordability of dentures also makes them an ideal temporary solution for those who cannot decide about long-term solutions for their missing teeth.
Taking care of dentures
Dentures, like all oral appliances and restorations, require proper maintenance. The dentist will instruct patients on the proper care of dentures. For example, one does not use toothpaste to clean dentures but a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Also, Dentures will need to be soaked overnight in water or a mild denture-soaking solution. In addition, patients will still need to see a dentist regularly to check the health of their gums and the fit of their dentures. Finally, patients must handle dentures with care to prevent damage.
The better care patients take off their dentures, the longer they will last. Denture relining and rebasing can extend the life of dentures. These are procedures denture patients will need to keep their dentures fitting well.
Replace your missing teeth
Dentures, implants, or bridges are all popular ways to replace missing teeth. However, the most important thing is to replace lost teeth as soon as possible so the appearance of your smile and your ability to chew properly can be restored. Call or visit our Dallas clinic to learn more about dentures.
Request an appointment here: https://cosmeticdentistdallastx.com or call Lalangas Family Dentistry at (972) 534-6008 for an appointment in our Dallas office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dentures in Dallas, TX.
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