Don’t let missing teeth make you feel uncomfortable or self-conscious – dentures are an excellent way to restore the look and feel of healthy, attractive teeth. These removable appliances are constructed with artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored acrylic base. They sit on top of the gums and make eating and speaking easier and more comfortable. Today’s dentures are crafted from durable yet lightweight materials that closely mimic the look of natural teeth and gums.
Well-fitting, long-lasting dentures require the skill of an experienced dentist like Dr. Nancy Snyder. She can evaluate the condition of any remaining teeth and guide you to select the best denture option for your needs.
Partial versus Full Dentures
Conventional full dentures are designed to replace all of the teeth in the mouth. An upper denture has a plate that covers the roof of the mouth, and the lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe and rests on top of the gums.
Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain in the mouth. The denture fills in the gaps left by missing teeth, preventing the other teeth from shifting into the spaces and making it easier to chew food and speak clearly. Partial dentures are usually removable and have metal or tooth-colored clasps or framework that attach to the natural teeth, holding the partial denture in place.
The Design, Creation and Fitting of Dentures
The denture design, creation and fitting process typically requires several appointments with Dr. Snyder. At the first appointment, she will assess your mouth, noting whether you have any remaining teeth. She may advise extracting teeth that are weak or otherwise compromised. If you need a partial denture, Dr. Snyder may recommend placing crowns over the natural teeth so the partial denture can better fit into your mouth.
Impressions and measurements of your mouth will be taken to send to the lab tasked with constructing your dentures. You will have several appointments to “try on” the dentures, where Dr. Snyder will check the fit and appearance of the appliances. You can provide feedback to fine-tune the dentures to your liking for a natural and comfortable fit and appearance.
Some patients opt to anchor their dentures in place with several dental implant posts. Not only do the dentures feel more secure in the mouth, but the implant posts help stimulate the jawbone and prevent it from wasting away. If you are interested, Dr. Snyder can discuss this option with you during your consultation.
Adjusting to Wearing Dentures
There is a slight adjustment period when adapting to dentures. You may find that you have increased saliva flow and your mouth feels sore. It may be difficult to chew and speak at first. Dr. Snyder will give you tips to help any discomfort subside as the muscles and tissues in your mouth adjust to wearing dentures. She will also advise how to clean and care for your dentures so they last a long time.
Request a Consultation with Dr. Snyder
If you are missing some or all teeth and would like to discuss your replacement options with Dr. Nancy Snyder of Fort Oglethorpe Dental, please request an appointment by calling or emailing us today.