COMPLETE dentures
A denture or a complete denture as it is often called, is an appliance that is inserted in the mouth, replaces natural teeth and provides support for the cheeks and lips.
Most dentures are made of acrylic and can be fabricated two different ways.
- A conventional denture is made after all teeth have been extracted and the tissues (gums) have healed.
- An immediate denture is fabricated and inserted immediately after the teeth are extracted and the tissues are allowed to heal under the denture.
Dentures over a normal course of time will wear and need to be replaced or relined in order to keep the fitting properly. Regular dental examinations are still important for the denture wearer so that the oral tissues can be checked for disease, change and overall fit and function. Have loose dentures checked immediately as they can cause friction and pressure on the gum tissues and bones.
dENTURE exams & maintenance
Your dentures are an investment and require care and attention to maintain their optimum performance. The fit of your dentures will have a profound effect on your oral tissues and health.
An annual examination by Dr. Michelakis will help ensure your denture is functioning properly and can assist in detecting oral abnormalities including cancerous and precancerous lesions. Early detection of these conditions is beneficial for the best treatment outcomes.
denture repairs
A variety of circumstance can lead to a damaged denture and should be addressed immediately. Repairs restore a fractured or damaged denture close to its original condition.
Michelakis Smiles and Implant Dentistry can often provide denture repair procedures on a same day basis. Dr. Michelakis will advise you of the condition of your denture and will recommend steps needed in preventing further breakage.
dENTURE RELINES
New dentures will typically fit your mouth very securely as it has been designed specifically for your gums. As time goes on, your gum tissues will change and the fit of the denture may become loose and more prone to movement. Having the denture professionally relined every couple of years will keep the denture secure and functional.
Hard Denture Reline
A hard reline removes a layer of plastic from the dentures interior surface, and then fills the denture with a putty-like material which conforms to the contours of your mouth creating an accurate impression. The denture is sent to the lab where it is adjusted to the new shape of your gum tissue. This results in maximum contact between the denture and your mouth.
Soft Denture Reline
Some patients are unable to wear ordinary dentures because of tender gums or sore spots. Relining the denture with a material that stays pliable for one to two years before needing replacement. This material is much less likely to give the patient sore spots than the standard hard reline acrylic. Patients experiencing these problems may also consider a more permanent solution of implant retained dentures.
PARTIAL Dentures
A removable partial denture is designed specifically to replace one or more missing teeth. A removable partial denture may help limit movement of the teeth surrounding a missing tooth. They also allow your eat improving digestion.
A removable partial denture may help limit movement of your existing natural teeth. They also allow you to better grind and chew food improving digestion.
REPLACING MISSING TEETH WITH IMPLANT RETAINED DENTURES
Usually, when you lose a tooth, it is best for your oral health to have it replaced. Missing teeth can affect your “bite” as well as your ability to speak and chew. Their loss can increase the burden on your remaining teeth and can cause muscle pain in your jaws and headaches. And of course, losing a tooth can affect your appearance. The following information reviews replacing missing teeth with an implant retained denture.
Although many patients have no problem wearing an upper denture, some people find it difficult to wear and eat with lower dentures. Several implant-supported replacement options are available if you are missing all of your lower teeth.
Dental Implant Benefits:
- Improved confidence
- Stability during eating
- Bone and gum preservation
- Nutritional benefits