Dentures and Partial Dentures Modesto, CA
Dentures and partial dentures are artificial teeth that can replace an entire row of teeth or all teeth in a mouth. No matter the reason for tooth loss in adults, we can use dentures to provide an effective and natural-looking replacement. With our dentures, you will be able to eat and speak as you usually would. We offer full and partial dentures customized to your needs.
Dentures and partial dentures are available at Great Smiles Dental in Modesto and the surrounding area. Along with helping patients chew and speak without issue, dentures can also help create the appearance of a full smile again. With our help, you can obtain a set of functioning teeth and restore your smile.
Call us today at (209) 222-3636 and schedule a time to discuss replacing your teeth with dentures or partial dentures or learn more about our services.
Types of Dentures
As discussed in an article by the Oral Health Foundation, there are differences between full and partial dentures. Full dentures are a good option for patients with no remaining teeth or whose damaged teeth are beyond repair. Meanwhile, a partial appliance makes sense when the person still has some natural teeth remaining. At Great Smiles Dental, we can fit patients with either one of these mouth appliances.
There are forms of permanent dentures as well, though these may not be as common as the removable type. Permanent dentures can be more secure and durable. With permanent dentures, we anchor this apparatus to the jaw with implants. People choose these dentures to help avoid the embarrassment of the appliance slipping out while the person speaks or eats. Dental professionals are the only ones who can remove permanent dentures.
“As discussed in an article by the Oral Health Foundation, there are differences between full and partial dentures.”
The Denture Process
Typically, the process starts with taking an impression of the mouth. From that, the dentist creates a model using dental stone as a cast. Our team may ask the patient to try several different sets of sterilized dentures to determine the ideal fit and the preferred color and size of teeth. After these selections, the dentist may make some adjustments to the cast. Then, it is sent to a dental laboratory for completion.
At the dental laboratory, technicians may create a wax version of the gum line. These technicians make the replacement teeth from a material that closely resembles real teeth known as resin. Virtually, all labs seek approval from the patient and dentist before proceeding with the finishing touches.
Following approval, the technician removes the wax and replaces it with acrylic. This looks far more realistic. This process entails boiling the wax out, drilling holes in the teeth, and injecting the acrylic. Finally, technicians clean up the teeth and polish the appliance. The entire process may require the patient to visit the dentist's office four to five times.
“Our team may ask the patient to try several different sets of sterilized dentures to determine the ideal fit as well as the preferred color and size of teeth.”
Process of Making Dentures
Our dentist will first meet with the patient to discuss the treatment and what to expect. Team members will take X-rays before making impressions of the patient's mouth. These will go to a lab technician who can customize the appliance for the patient. At this first appointment, our dentist may remove any decayed or severely damaged teeth. If necessary, this may occur at a subsequent appointment.
Once the dentures are ready, the patient will return to Great Smiles Dental for the fitting process. This appointment will also happen after the gums have healed following any tooth extractions. In making sure the dentures fit correctly, we will also make any adjustments when necessary. Once complete, the patient will be able to bite down without issue.
“Once the dentures are ready, the patient will return to Great Smiles Dental for the fitting process.”
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How to Care for Your Dentures
According to Mayo Clinic, both removable partial and full dentures require proper care to keep them clean, stain-free, and in generally optimal condition. For example, it is essential to remove and rinse dentures after eating (and brush the teeth after removing the dentures). Dentures should be rinsed thoroughly before put back in the mouth.
Patients must also treat dentures delicately, making sure not to bend or damage the plastic or clasps. Dentures should be brushed at least once daily and soaked overnight while not in use. Regular dental checkups can ensure a proper fit to prevent slippage and discomfort.
Denture Adhesives
Properly fitted and maintained dentures should sit comfortably on the teeth without requiring assistance. However, over time, patients may experience shrinkage in the bone structure in the mouth that causes dentures to shift and gradually become loose. Patients should then have the dentures relined or get fitted for new dentures. In the meantime, denture adhesives can help keep the dentures in place.
“According to Mayo Clinic, both removable partial and full dentures require proper care to keep them clean, stain-free, and in generally optimal condition.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are the different types of dentures?
Q. How can I care for my dentures?
Q. What should I do if my dentures break?
Q. What are some common myths about dentures?
People Also Ask
Q. What should I do if my dentures start to feel uncomfortable?
Q. How can removable partial dentures replace back teeth?
Q. Should someone get implants or partial dentures?
Myths About Dentures
Dentures Will Make It Hard to Eat
Dentures should allow the person to eat most foods without any issues. However, the patient should be careful about chewing hard items such as candy, nuts, and ice. Sticky foods can also pull the dentures out of the person’s mouth.
Dentures Do Not Look Natural
Full and partial dentures can help people experience the satisfaction of a full smile again. Dentures closely resemble natural teeth. We will make sure the artificial teeth match the color of any remaining real teeth. Dentures can also give a person’s cheeks a more defined shape and appearance.
You Will Not Need to Replace Dentures Over Time
Dentures can work effectively for up to 10 years. This time frame will depend mainly on the person’s commitment and diligence to maintaining the appliance. Just as patients should brush and floss natural teeth, people must do the same with dentures. These habits will help prevent and remove stains from artificial teeth, helping to preserve the color.
You Can Use Regular Toothpaste on Dentures
Each night, patients should remove the dentures and soak the appliance in a solution that we recommend to help clean the dentures. Regular toothpaste is likely to be too harsh on dentures. After every meal, the wearer should take out the dentures and rinse them off. When doing this, the person must be careful not to drop the appliance. It may be helpful to place a towel on the counter or in the sink.
“Dentures closely resemble natural teeth.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much do dentures cost? Can insurance cover part or all of the cost?
A. We can go over dental coverage for this treatment during a consultation appointment in our office. We will go over the replacement options with you and the types of insurance we accept. If you wish to know about your coverage, you will need to contact your insurance provider.
Q. Will dentures change the way I look?
A. Dentures may enhance your overall appearance. In addition to replacing any missing teeth and improving the smile, dentures can help stop the facial muscles from sagging.
Q. Will dentures change the way I speak?
A. It may take you some time to get accustomed to speaking with dentures. However, with enough time and practice, dentures will likely improve your speech.
Q. How do new dentures feel?
A. New dentures are likely to feel foreign and awkward in the mouth. However, any discomfort you may feel will subside with time.
Q. Does age affect my tooth replacement options?
A. Some people may think dentures are only for older patients. While it is true that this demographic frequently chooses this option, younger people can get them too. Most dental professionals will wait until a person is 18 to consider the treatment.
Q. What are denture adhesives, and are they safe to use?
A. Denture adhesives are any adhesives placed in or on dentures to assist them in staying in place. They typically come as pastes, powders, or adhesive pads. Some also contain zinc to enhance adhesion. In moderation, they are safe to use.
Denture Terminology
Book Your Appointment Today
Have you decided that dentures are right for you? If not, consider speaking with our team to see what your options are. For more information, call us at (209) 222-3636 to schedule an appointment with Great Smiles Dental in Modesto today.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
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