If you’re missing some or all of your teeth, dentures can give you a functional, natural-looking substitute. Dentures can be fit for your upper or lower jaw, and if you’ve still got some healthy teeth, a partial denture can be created to sit alongside them, supporting them and keeping them in place. To learn more about dentures, or to have some made for you, call CaliDental in Santa Maria, San Luis Obispo, Bakersfield and Lompoc, California, today to make an appointment or make one online.
A denture is a removable replacement for multiple missing teeth and the surrounding teeth. If you’re only missing some teeth, a partial denture may be used to replace them, but if all your teeth are missing, a complete denture is recommended. Dentures are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and should fit comfortably even while you’re talking or eating. Depending on your oral health, you may get complete or partial dentures.
Complete dentures are classified as either immediate or conventional. When your teeth are removed to make way for complete dentures, it can take 8-12 weeks before your mouth is ready to be fit for conventional dentures. While you wait for your conventional dentures to be made and adjusted, immediate dentures can be used in the interim.
When you’re missing multiple teeth, but also have multiple healthy teeth in your upper or lower jaw, a partial denture can be used to bridge the gap and prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of place. Unlike a dental bridge, which is cemented into place between healthy teeth, partial dentures can be removed.
The exact construction process varies between different types of dentures, but they’re typically made in several stages. First, your dentist at CaliDental will measure your mouth, and the spaces that need to be bridged, and take a series of impressions of your jaws. Next, a sample version of your denture, made of wax or plastic, is made for you to try on. You and your dentist will assess the appearance, feel, and fit of the sample before the final denture is cast.
Good oral hygiene is always important, even when wearing complete dentures. Follow these steps to keep your mouth healthy and protect your dentures:
For more information on dentures, or for answers to any other oral health questions, call CaliDental today to make an appointment, or make one online.