Dentures
Dentures help restore your facial structure and prevent facial sagging, restore your smile by filling in gaps
Restore your ability to speak clearly and chew food, and are much more affordable than dental implants
A denture is a removable prosthesis that replaces missing teeth in the mouth. They are typically made of an acrylic, resin, or metal base that matches the color of your gums and are attached to porcelain artificial teeth. There are different types of dentures, notably partial and full, but patients can also get implant-supported dentures.
Partial dentures replace one or a few missing teeth. Much like a fixed bridge, they use natural abutment teeth to hold it into place. Where a bridge is cemented into place, however, a partial denture clips onto metal clasps placed around the teeth.
A full denture replaces all of the teeth in the mouth or an entire arch of teeth. Because it replaces all of the teeth, patients need to have the rest of their teeth extracted. Full dentures are only recommended for patients who are already missing the majority of their teeth.
Dentures generally last for about 7-10 years. Partial dentures tend to last a little longer than full dentures, with a maximum lifespan of 15 years. However, the answer is different for each person depending on how soon the structure of your mouth changes.
The structure of your dentures can also change due to wear and tear. You should attend dental visits at least twice a year and monitor any changes in fit or feel with your dentures. Instead of having your dentures completely replaced, you can always have them relined or rebased.
The process begins with a consultation with Dr. Victor Tran. An oral exam will be conducted and x-rays will be taken to assess the structure of your mouth and look at the condition of the underlying bone.
Then, we will take impressions of your mouth and send them to the dental lab that creates your dentures. For full dentures, we will need to extract your teeth and they will need to heal completely before fitting your official dentures. You’ll be given temporary dentures to wear for 8-12 weeks.
At a separate appointment, we will take down measurements known as a jaw record which describes how your upper and lower jaws meet together. Finally, we will have a fitting where you can test how your dentures feel and fit. This is the time for you to tell us if any adjustments need to be made before receiving your official dentures.
When you first get dentures, it’ll take about 30 days to get used to them. In the meantime, you may find it difficult to chew and speak like you normally do. It may be difficult to chew at first so start with soft foods and try cutting food into smaller pieces.
Ensure that you’re chewing on both sides of the mouth and be careful. Be mindful of chewing and ensuring that your food has been chewed long enough to swallow. You should also avoid hot beverages and foods until you’ve gotten used to your dentures.
Because your body has detected a foreign object in the body, your sensations may be off. To avoid accidentally burning yourself, stick to cooler or room temperature food and drinks. Over time, you’ll be able to introduce more solid, chewy, and hotter foods into your diet.
Ensure that you thoroughly clean your dentures after eating. If you’re interested in dentures, contact us at Origin Dental today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Victor Tran.
What is gum disease and how can periodontal care from Origin Dental help?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums. Gum disease is one of the top reasons for tooth loss in adults, and many patients don't realize they have this disease until it's too late. Some common symptoms of gum disease are red, swollen, and tender gums, bleeding gums, or gums that have pulled away from the teeth (recession). During regular checkups, Dr. Tran will check for signs of periodontal disease and offers deep cleanings for patients suffering from gum disease.
What can I expect during my regular checkups?
According the the American Dental Association, you should come in for dental checkups every 6 months. During these appointments, Dr. Tran examines your teeth and gums, and checks for any dental issues including cavities and periodontal disease. You’ll receive a thorough yet gentle cleaning to make sure you are on the right track toward optimal dental health. Seeing you every 6 months helps Dr. Tran understand the state of your oral health and treat minor dental issues before they become much larger and more costly problems.
Do you offer TMD/TMJ treatment?
Yes! We know that Temporomandibular Disorder, or TMD, can be painful and it can have severely negative effects on your quality of life. Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your lower jawbone to your skull, and TMD can turn simple activities like chewing or speaking into painful episodes. At Origin Dental, Dr. Tran offers treatment for TMD that will relieve pain and tension and help you enjoy your life again.