Tooth loss can occur for many reasons including periodontal disease, decay or trauma. Dentures have been used to replace missing teeth for many years. Alternative methods used to replace missing teeth include dental implants and fixed bridges. New Bern, NC dentist Dr. Stephen Hoard offers several types of dentures, including cosmetic dentures and All-on-Four dental implants, as well as an implant denture solution.
The loss of your teeth can have negative effects on your self-confidence, your ability to chew food, and your bite. Since your teeth provide structure and support to your cheeks, tooth loss can result in the sagging of your cheeks and make you appear older than you are. It is essential that your missing teeth are replaced as soon as possible.
Dentures are removable replacements for teeth designed to look and function like natural teeth and surrounding gum tissues. Modern-day dentures can look very realistic and natural and feel comfortable. Dr. Hoard offers dentures as a restorative dentistry procedure to the public.
Dentures and Partials
A complete denture is used to replace all of your missing teeth. If you are only missing a few teeth, a partial denture or overdenture may be used. Dentures are generally fabricated from acrylic resins. With advances in modern cosmetic dentistry, there are a wide variety of materials available for dentures. Dr. Hoard will help you make the best choice for your budget and lifestyle.
Dentures should be held in place by their natural suction to your gums; sometimes, a fixative may also be used. Partial dentures are secured to adjacent teeth or dental implants.
Complete dentures can also be fixed securely in place by dental implants or mini implants, which can give you the confidence to eat whatever you want without having to worry about your dentures coming loose or falling out. More patients seem to be opting for treatment with implants now. Though a significant investment, fixed dentures have a dramatic effect on improving the quality of life.
How should I look after my dentures?
Keep your dentures clean at all times. You should remove your dentures at night to give your gums “a rest” and the chance to be exposed to your natural saliva, which will keep them healthy. It is highly recommended that you brush your dentures and soak them in cold water or special soak solution.
Always brush your dentures before putting them back into your mouth. If your dentures begin to collect debris or stains that you cannot remove by normal brushing, your dentist or hygienist will be able to professionally clean your dentures for you.
Visit your dentist regularly to ensure that your dentures are in good condition and continue to fit your gums, as the shape of your gums and underlying bone can change with time. Loose fitting dentures can cause irritation and inflammation of your gums and problems with eating and speech.
All-on-Four Secured Denture
“All on Four” and “Teeth in a Day” are names for a type of implant secured denture. Like a traditional removable denture, an implant denture can be used to replace all of a person’s missing teeth. The difference, however is that the denture is supported by several strategically placed dental implants.
Implant dentures can only be removed by your dentist. Most denture wearers are thrilled with the results of the all on four procedure and no longer have to worry about eating soft foods or having their denture slip out of their mouth.
New Bern dentist Dr. Stephen Hoard works with a local periodontist to complete this procedure for his patients. The procedure is usually complete in one visit. All teeth will be removed (if necessary), the periodontist will place the implants and Dr. Hoard will secure the cosmetic denture.
Benefits of Implant Supported Dentures in New Bern, NC
An implant denture also promotes improved health and quality of life compared to traditional removable dentures. While there is a greater investment for dental implant supported dentures, they do provide superior long term benefits over removable dentures.
- Secure fit, better retention
- Ability to eat foods without restrictions
- Maintains bone structure in the jaw
- Ability to speak normally
Dentures and Partials FAQs
Learn more about dentures in New Bern, NC, with answers to these common questions:
How long do partial dentures last?
The answer depends on your regular oral routine, visits to the dentist, and denture cleaning habits. If you practice good oral hygiene and consult a dentist regularly, most types of dentures can last for up to 15 years.
Can a dentist upgrade my existing dentures?
No. Traditional dentures can be adjusted or relined, but it is not possible to “upgrade” them. We can however create modern dentures that fit better than your old dentures. Your mouth changes over time, so you may want to get new ones if you’ve had your dentures for a long time.
Can I get dentures after a tooth extraction?
Yes, you can get dentures after a tooth extraction, but there is usually a waiting period. After a tooth is removed, your gums need time to heal. This healing process can take a few weeks to a few months. Once your gums are healed, you can get dentures that fit well and feel comfortable.
In some cases, our dentist might provide you with temporary dentures right after the extraction. Temporary dentures help you eat and speak normally while you wait for your permanent ones.
Why do my dentures not fit anymore?
The most common reason for ill-fitting dentures is gum recession. Dentures do not support healthy gum growth. As your mouth changes with age, your dentures will need to be replaced in order to prevent pain and discomfort. If you have removable dentures, you should replace them every 5 to 10 years.
When can I eat solid foods after I get dentures?
After four weeks, you can begin to eat solid foods with your dentures. During your first month with your dentures, you will get accustomed to biting and chewing. Eating soft foods for the first four weeks will help you get used to your new restoration before you eat harder and crunchier foods.
Can I get dentures if I have gum disease?
Yes. We can treat your gum disease before you receive dentures. Once we ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy, we will begin your denture treatment. If you have advanced gum disease, we may need to remove permanent teeth and wait until you are fully healed before placing your dentures.
Who is a bad candidate for implant dentures?
Immunocompromised patients may not be good candidates for implant dentures because dental implants require a long healing period for the implant posts to fuse with the jaw bone. In addition, patients who clench or grind their teeth will require treatment to stop bruxism before considering denture treatment.
Patients with insufficient bone or gum tissue left in their mouth may not be good candidates for implant dentures. However, we can recommend bone and gum grafting treatments. Grafting adds healthy tissue where it is needed to prepare for implant treatment.
Can you replace implant dentures?
Implant-secured dentures are removable. However, they do not offer as much stability as implant-supported options.
Implant-supported dentures stay in place because they are designed to be secure and stable, so they don’t move around. However, our dentist can remove them if needed, like for cleaning or if adjustments are required. Most people find that implant dentures stay in place well and don’t need to be taken out often.