Missing teeth can make it difficult to enjoy eating the foods you love. You can restore your oral function and improve the look of your smile after tooth loss with dentures. These fixtures can replace several or an entire arches of lost teeth, depending on your unique dental needs.
Your dentist can provide dentures that either stay securely in place or can be removed as needed. We’ll make sure you get the option that works best for you. Dr. Keith Boenning, a dentist practicing in Towson, MD, describes the different oral health advantages you can get with both removable and fixed dentures.
Removable Tooth Replacement Options
Removable dentures are an affordable and simple option to replace your missing teeth. These oral appliances feature prosthetic teeth that attach to an acrylic base. They usually include a metal framework and plastic clasp to support its position in your mouth.
Dentures feature a natural and beautiful finish that will boost the look of your smile. They will stop premature facial sagging and can help you chew foods that were previously giving you a hard time.
The best thing about them being removable is that you can take them out of your mouth to sleep more comfortably. However, you will need to have a more rigorous maintenance routine to take care of your dentures. You may also need to replace the appliance more frequently than a fixed option. But many dental patients appreciate the convenience of taking dentures out of their mouth at their leisure.
Benefits with Fixed Dentures
Fixed dentures are a tooth replacement option that sit permanently in your mouth. Only a dentist can remove them. Dentists attach fixed dentures using dental implants. The process is simple, but takes a while because of healing.
An oral surgeon will surgically place several titanium post anchors into your jaw. This will support the prosthetic teeth when healed. Dentists can replace one, several, or an entire arch of missing teeth in this way. Once secured, implant-supported dentures provide restorative benefits for a lifetime.
These patients will not have to worry about their devices slipping out of place at inopportune moments. Unlike removable dentures, implants can replace a missing tooth root and preserve your jawbone below the gumline. Though this treatment is more expensive and needs greater commitment. But this replacement option can offer more extensive long-term oral health benefits.
The Adjustment Period: What to Expect
Getting used to dentures takes time and patience. At first, your new dentures might feel strange or bulky in your mouth, and you may produce more saliva than usual. Speaking and eating will require practice. Start with soft foods cut into small pieces and read aloud to help your tongue adjust to forming words.
It’s normal to need a few follow-up visits for adjustments as your mouth gets accustomed to the new appliance. Most people adapt within a few weeks, and soon the dentures will feel more natural. Remember that even if it feels awkward at first, millions of people successfully wear dentures every day.
Caring for Your Dentures Properly
Proper care is essential for keeping removable and fixed dentures in good condition. For removable dentures, you’ll need to brush them daily with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner. Don’t use regular toothpaste because it can be too abrasive. Always handle them over a folded towel or basin of water in case you drop them.
Soak them overnight to keep their shape and kill bacteria. For fixed dentures, you’ll brush and floss them just like natural teeth. Pay special attention to where the dentures meet your gums. Both types need regular dental checkups to ensure proper fit and oral health. Your dentures can last many years with great care.
Combining Dentures with Other Dental Treatments
Many patients choose to combine dentures with other dental procedures for the best results. For example, some people get teeth whitening before their dentures so the prosthetic teeth match their brightest natural smile. Others may need tooth extractions or gum treatments before being fitted for dentures.
Implant-supported dentures often involve bone grafting if jawbone density is insufficient. Your dentist can create a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses all your dental needs, whether you’re missing one tooth or a full arch. The goal is to give you a comfortable, functional, and attractive smile that meets all your expectations.
Dentures and Other Tooth Replacements in Towson, MD
Dental Implants and Cosmetic Dentistry of Towson offers dentures and other tooth replacement solutions to patients in Towson, MD. Dr. Boenning also specializes in restorative, general, and cosmetic dentistry, including professional teeth whitening services. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Boenning and Dr. Dancykier, call us at 410-324-2294 or reach our office online.