Do you have multiple missing teeth in a row? Maybe you have whole arches of missing teeth. Dr. Keith Boenning and Dr. Nathan Dancykier offer dentures in Towson, MD, for patients with missing teeth. Full and partial dentures are dental restorations that are used to replace lost or missing teeth with natural-looking prosthetics. Dentures can be removable or secured by implants. We often recommend implant-secured dentures, especially for patients with a full arch of missing teeth. Dental implants restore the bite function of patients who have missing teeth and feel like a natural restoration.
Benefits of Receiving Dentures
Replacing missing teeth is vital for your overall health, oral health, and appearance. You may notice a change in your face shape once you receive your dentures. Facial sagging is one of the aesthetic changes that can occur if you have missing teeth. Dentures can fill out your face and combat facial sagging and the development of deep facial wrinkles.
Missing teeth will make it difficult to consume many types of food. Dentures will restore balance to your bite and make it easier to eat the foods you love. This includes many types of food that you need to remain healthy. Implant-secured dentures, in particular, are a longer-lasting restoration for patients with missing teeth.
Types of Dentures
Full Dentures
Full dentures are for patients missing a whole arch of teeth. It is made up of false teeth that are fused to a base made of acrylic. The acrylic base is designed to blend in naturally with your gums. Your denture will remain in place by way of suction or adhesive. Full dentures must be removed for at least 7-8 hours daily to allow the gums to rest. Most patients choose to do this at night while sleeping.
Partial Dentures
We use partial dentures to replace multiple missing teeth in a row. They are also made of replacement teeth that are attached to a metal or acrylic base. The base is pink and blends in with the color of your natural gums. Partial dentures can also have a clasp to attach to your natural teeth. The prosthetic teeth that make up the denture rest on the gum ridge. Additionally, partial dentures are removable and do not need to be worn at night.
Implant Dentures
Implant-secured dentures hold prosthetics in place. To receive implant dentures, you must have sufficient bone tissue or can undergo bone grafting treatment to ensure that implants can be inserted into the jawbone. Implant dentures use several dental implants that are surgically placed into your jaw to hold prosthetic teeth. Sometimes, we can place a hybrid denture over one or more implants. Hybrid dentures sit on top of the gums like removable dentures, but they can be supported by multiple implants for more stability.
FAQs
Are full dentures comfortable?
In most cases, dentures should fit comfortably and securely with no slipping or rubbing of the gums if fabricated correctly by your dental team. If you experience discomfort when wearing your dentures, consult with your dentist so they can make adjustments as necessary, or talk to them about implant-support dentures, a more stabilized option for those who struggle with denture adhesives and consistent shifting.
Can you leave partial dentures in all the time?
No. We do not recommend leaving partial dentures in the mouth at all times. You should remove partial dentures at night to allow your gums and the underlying bone structure a chance to rest and breathe. It will also allow you to thoroughly clean your partial denture and keep your oral hygiene routine consistent.
How long do implant dentures last?
Implant dentures are a long-term solution, with most implants lasting a lifetime and attachable implant-supported dentures up to ten years. The longevity of your implants and implant dentures will largely depend on how well you care for them. You need to follow up regularly with your dentist for check-ups and maintenance appointments to evaluate the health of your restorations and removable appliances.
How many teeth can a partial denture replace?
Partial dentures can replace any number of missing teeth, providing a secure and natural-looking restoration. Many patients opt for partial dentures to replace several consecutive teeth or even just one tooth if they do not want the more permanent commitment of a bridge.
What is the average age for getting dentures?
There is no “average” age for getting dentures, as it all depends on the individual. At any age, if you are missing several of your natural teeth and would like to improve your appearance and oral function, denture treatment may be a good option for you.
Do dentures prevent bone loss?
Dentures do not prevent bone loss, but they can restore function and improve the appearance of your smile by filling in missing spaces. You will still need to maintain the underlying structures of your jawbone. This is what makes implant-supported dentures a more desirable option. They avoid the natural bone loss that occurs with time after a teeth extraction or a missing tooth.
Book your Appointment for Dentures in Towson, MD
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Boenning or Dr. Dancykier to learn more about the types of dentures we offer. You can also call our Towson, MD, dental office at 410.324.2294.