Are you missing several teeth? Dentures are a great restorative option for replacing rows or arches of lost teeth. Partial dentures can restore several missing teeth in a row, while full dentures replace all the teeth in the upper or lower arch.
Although removable dentures are the traditional choice, many patients now benefit more from implant-secured dentures. Learn more about full and partial denture treatment at our Burke, VA dental office.
Snap-On Smile®
The Snap-On Smile system is a short-term option for covering your upper and/or lower teeth. It’s a custom-made resin tray that snaps over your existing teeth to cover stains, crooked teeth, damage, or short teeth. You can easily remove the Snap-On Smile to brush and floss your natural teeth.
Patients can choose the shade and shape of their Snap-On Smile. We then take pictures and impressions of your teeth. After a few weeks, you’ll return to our office to have your new cosmetic restoration fitted to your teeth.
Denture Treatment in Burke, VA
Before treatment begins, we check to make sure you don’t have any tooth decay or gum disease. If needed, we might suggest bone grafting to ensure you have enough healthy jawbone tissue to support implants. To begin the process, we take dental x-rays and scans to find the best spots for the implants. Then, we take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental lab where the dentures are custom-made.
An oral surgeon places the implants into your jawbone, and temporary caps on the implants. Over the next three to six months, the implants will fuse with the jawbone. Once everything heals and the permanent dentures are ready, we attach the denture to the implants.
Removable vs. Implant Dentures
Removable dentures and implant-supported dentures are two options for replacing missing teeth. You can take out and put back in removable dentures whenever you want. Implant-supported dentures are permanently attached to your jawbone.
Each type has its own pros and cons. Knowing the differences will help you decide which option is best for you.
Removable Dentures
Removable dentures can be either full or partial. Partial dentures replace several missing teeth in a row while still protecting your remaining teeth. Full dentures replace an entire upper or lower arch of missing teeth.
Traditional dentures are false teeth that you can remove. The dental lab attaches these teeth to a base that fits snugly in your mouth or clips onto your natural teeth.
Some people use adhesive to keep them in place, but they can still slip. Because of this, they don’t fully restore your bite, and you may need to avoid certain foods.
Removable dentures can feel bulky, uncomfortable, and hard to adjust to. But they’re more affordable and can be made in less than a month. If you already have dentures, you can upgrade to implant-supported dentures.
Implant-supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures, also known as fixed implant dentures, provide a more secure fit. These dentures use dental implants to hold them in place. The implants support both the jawbone and soft tissue.
An oral surgeon inserts titanium posts into the jawbone, which then support a custom-made permanent denture.
With implant-supported dentures, you won’t have to worry about your teeth shifting or slipping. They also give you stronger bite power, so you can enjoy a wider variety of foods. Plus, the implants keep your jawbone healthy and prevent bone loss, keeping your facial structure intact.
Although implant-supported dentures are more expensive and take longer to complete than removable ones, Dr. Mia offers financing and payment options to make them more affordable.
To qualify for implant-supported dentures, or any type of denture, you need to be free of gum disease. Gum disease can affect how well your dentures fit and can cause problems with the implants.
Fortunately, we can treat gum disease and tooth decay before placing implant-supported dentures. A healthy foundation will help ensure the best results.
Dentures & Partials FAQs
How long after dentures can you eat solid food?
It usually takes about three to four weeks to get used to eating normally with dentures. When you start eating solid foods again, try cutting them into smaller pieces to make chewing easier. Be patient as you adjust to your new dentures, and give yourself time.
Are full dentures better than partials?
If your dentist can save some of your natural teeth, partial dentures are often the best option for replacing missing teeth. Full lower dentures can be harder to adjust to. Whether you get partial or full dentures, it will take some time before they feel natural.
How do you clean partial dentures?
To clean your partial dentures, start by removing them and soaking them in cold water or a denture cleaning solution. Cleaning dentures is simple but can take some time. Here’s how to do it:
- Wet a denture brush or a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Apply a denture cleaner or non-abrasive toothpaste to the brush.
- Gently brush your dentures for about two minutes.
- Rinse them well under cold or lukewarm water.
- Soak them in water or a mild denture-soaking product overnight.
Can you talk normally with dentures?
Most people can eat and speak normally about 15 to 30 days after getting new dentures. The hardest part is adjusting to the denture adhesive. Denture adhesives will feel better once your saliva production adjusts and sore spots heal, making it easier to speak as well.
Looking for a more secure option than removable dentures? Try implant-secured dentures! Schedule a consultation with our team on our website or call (571) 789-1265. If you have questions about whether you’re a good candidate for implant treatment, we’re always happy to help.