A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. We can fit you for both partial and complete dentures at our Lansing dental office. Dentures are made to resemble your natural teeth, so there should be no noticeable change to your appearance. In fact, dentures may even improve your smile.
Types Of Dentures
There are different types of dentures, but they share a common function. They replace teeth that have become damaged beyond repair. Partial dentures are used when one or more natural teeth remain in the upper or lower jaw. Complete dentures replace all teeth, whether they have been lost or pulled.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing. They are like a full set of new teeth that you can wear in your mouth. Complete dentures can be conventional or immediate.
Conventional dentures are made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed. It usually takes about 8 to 12 weeks for the dentures to be ready.
Immediate Dentures are made in advance and can be put in your mouth right after the teeth are removed. However, they might need more adjustments as your gums and bones change during the healing process.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They are like a bridge that fills in the gaps between your remaining teeth. Partial dentures can be made of different materials and are designed to fit around your existing teeth.
What to Expect
When you come in for a denture appointment, your entire mouth is examined, and options will be discussed with the dentist. Impressions will be taken, and one or more try-in appointments will take place to ensure you receive a denture that looks and feels good to you. If you have never worn a denture before, it may feel awkward or loose at first, but with practice, denture wearers usually adjust very well to their dentures.
Once you’re accustomed to the denture, most patients have a noticeable improvement in the function and appearance of their teeth. Dentures typically require follow-up appointments to ensure they are fitted correctly and you aren’t experiencing complications. The procedure is as follows:
- Initial Consultation: Your journey begins with a visit to Cavanaugh Dental. During this appointment, she will examine your mouth, discuss your dental history, and talk about your needs and preferences. This is a great time to ask any questions you might have about the process.
- Treatment Plan: Our team will create a personalized treatment plan. This plan will outline the steps needed to prepare your mouth for dentures, including any necessary extractions or treatments.
- Impressions and Measurements: We will take detailed impressions of your gums and any remaining teeth. These impressions are used to create a model of your mouth, which helps in designing dentures that fit perfectly. Measurements of your jaw and bite are also taken to ensure the dentures align properly.
- Model Try-In: Before the final dentures are made, you will have a chance to try a model version. This step is crucial as it allows you and the dentist to see how the dentures fit and look. Adjustments can be made to ensure comfort and appearance.
- Final Denture Fitting: Once the model is perfected, the final dentures are crafted. You will return to our office for a fitting, where the dentures are placed in your mouth. We will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments to ensure they are comfortable and functional.
- Adjustments and Follow-Up: It’s normal to need a few adjustments after you start wearing your dentures. Your mouth may need time to adjust to them, and the dentist will help make any necessary adjustments for comfort. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor how well the dentures are working and to make any further adjustments.
- Learning to Use Your Dentures: At first, wearing dentures might feel a bit strange. You will need to practice speaking and eating with them. Our team will provide tips and guidance to help you adjust. Over time, using your dentures will become second nature.
- Care and Maintenance: Proper care is essential to keep your dentures in good condition. Our dental care team will show you how to clean them and advise on the best products to use. Regular cleaning helps prevent stains and keeps your mouth healthy.
By understanding each step of the process, you can feel more confident and prepared as you transition to wearing dentures. Cavanaugh Dental is there to support you every step of the way, ensuring that your new smile is both beautiful and functional.
Benefits of Dentures
Dentures offer a wide range of benefits that can significantly enhance your quality of life. One of the most noticeable advantages is the improvement in appearance. Dentures are designed to look like natural teeth, helping to restore your smile and boost your confidence. This can have a positive impact on your self-esteem and how you interact with others.
Additionally, dentures improve oral function, allowing you to eat a variety of foods that you might have avoided because of missing teeth. This not only makes meals more enjoyable but also ensures you can maintain a balanced diet for better overall health.
Speaking clearly is another benefit, as dentures help in pronouncing words that might be difficult without a full set of teeth. Comfort is also a key advantage, as modern dentures are crafted to fit snugly in your mouth, reducing the discomfort and irritation that can come from missing teeth.
With proper care and regular adjustments, dentures can provide a comfortable and effective solution for tooth loss, helping you maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Ready to take the next step towards a healthier, more confident smile? Whether you’re considering dentures for the first time or need adjustments to your current set, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Reach out to our friendly staff by phone at (517) 760-6845 or request an appointment online. We’re happy to answer any questions and find a time that works best for you.