Dentures
Dentures are a reliable solution for replacing missing teeth. At Bliss Dental our patients ask about dentures to determine if they are a good solution for their particular needs. As with any dental solution, there are pros and cons to wearing dentures and whether or not they will work for you depends largely on your lifestyle and the goals that you have for your appearance, including the functionality of your smile.
What are the types of dentures?
There are three main types of dentures: temporary, partial dentures, and complete dentures.
Temporary Dentures
We can provide patients with temporary dentures while they are undergoing a cosmetic dentistry procedure to replace a missing tooth. Temporaries ensure that patients throughout the Kendall area have a natural-looking smile while waiting for dental implants or a dental bridge to be completed. This is an excellent solution for when a tooth is knocked out during a sports game or in an accident. The temporary denture is secured in place with a metal wire that works like a retainer and can be taken in and out whenever you like. If you are looking for an immediate solution for replacing a missing tooth call (305) 274-6500. Keep in mind that a temporary denture is only meant to be worn for a few months and will need to be replaced.
Partial Dentures
If only a few of your teeth are missing, partial dentures are a good solution for replacing them. Unlike a full set of dentures, these are held in place by a plastic base that is the same color as your gums. A metal framework is typically created in order to secure the base and prevent it from falling out. As long as you have natural teeth in place, you cannot wear a full set, so a partial set of dentures is necessary. We treat patients throughout the Kendall area that want to know if a partial set is better than a cosmetic procedure. They function differently because dentures are removable and cosmetic dentistry solutions are typically permanent. If you live in the Kendall FL area, call for your consultation and we can provide you with a list of options to consider.
Implant Supported Dentures
If you are looking for a durable and comfortable way to replace missing teeth, you should consider this solution. Implant supported dentures make it easier to eat your favorite meals and engage in normal daily activities since they will remain securely in your mouth. You will not need to worry about them coming loose or slipping out of place while eating, speaking, or engaging in high-impact activities. Instead, you can rest assured that your teeth will be secure regardless of what you do. Not only will this prevent unnecessary embarrassment, but it will also make life more comfortable since your dentures will not be rubbing against your gums, causing irritation.
Kendall Dentures and Repair
Complete Denture
When all of your teeth are missing, complete dentures can replace them. These is the type of dentures that you typically see in cartoons and movies. Technology has improved in recent years, making them more comfortable and natural-looking than ever. We can determine if this is the best way to replace your teeth or if an alternative solution will help you to achieve your goals. If you proceed with getting a complete set of dentures, your gums will be healed and ready in eight to 12 weeks after your teeth have been removed. Following teeth removal, the bones and gums will start to shrink. By waiting for up to 12 weeks, you can be sure that your set of complete dentures will fit securely. Many patients throughout Florida prefer not to wait and get immediate dentures. This solution does not require a waiting period, but there will be adjustments later on after the gums and bone have settled into their permanent size.
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How are dentures made?
In order for dentures to be created, patients in FL need to schedule a dental appointment. At this time, the dentist will examine your gums and other teeth to determine if dentures are the best solution for you and if so, what type. A mold will then be taken of your teeth and gums so that the dentures can be created in a dental lab. Typically, several molds or impressions will be made so that the dentist can determine how your jaw functions and moves. Using these impressions, the lab will make a set of dentures that looks natural and fits perfectly. If necessary, adjustments will be made. We can discuss the process in more detail during a consultation.
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Benefits of Dentures
Patients throughout the Kendall area like how convenient dentures are. Whether you need a full or partial set, dentures can replace teeth in a non-invasive way. There is no surgical element to worry about, and temporary dentures can be fitted immediately. This provides a quick and easy solution. If, however, you are looking for something that feels more natural, you should consider a cosmetic dentistry procedure.
Negatives of Dentures
The biggest challenge with dentures is that they do not feel like natural teeth. Patients of Bliss Dental tend to agree that while they are functional, you still have to take care of them as a separate appliance. Other cosmetic dentistry procedures make it easy to forget you ever lost a tooth in the first place. Modern techniques have made dentures more secure and comfortable than they used to be, but they are still a foreign object in your mouth and can become loose when eating or speaking. If you are currently experiencing this problem, call Dr. Gaertner at 305-274-6500 for a consultation.
Alternative Options
Patients may enjoy the benefits of alternative options to dentures. There is a procedure that combines implant dentistry with dentures. Those that need complete dentures can benefit by having a secure way to hold their dentures in place. If you live in the Kendall FL area, we can examine your gums and let you know if you are a good candidate for the procedure. In this scenario, an impression is taken of your mouth in order to create a denture that will be secured in place using implants. Once created, metal posts will be implanted under your gums, and the dentures secured to it. This way patients get the benefits of how quickly dentures can be created and the convenience of the stability that can only come from using implant technology.
How do I care for my dentures?
Every night you need to take your dentures out. We advise patients to rinse them thoroughly then use a denture brush to remove any food particles before rinsing them again. You also need to brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste. You can use an antiseptic mouthwash afterward to kill any lingering bacteria and improve your breath. Your dentures should soak all night then be placed back in the mouth in the morning.
For a patient with removable dentures, it is crucial to remove them at night and thoroughly clean them. At least once a day, preferably at night, the individual needs to remove the dentures and carefully rinse off any loose food particles. However, the individual will not want to use typical toothpaste to clean the dentures.
Regular toothpaste can actually damage the base of the dentures due to the abrasive particles in the toothpaste. There are specific denture cleaning fluids that one can purchase to use for cleaning the dentures. We can go over where to get these solutions during a consultation. It is also wise to get a specific brush to clean the dentures. Using a brittle toothbrush can actually do more damage than good to the dentures.
When cleaning these dentures, it is important to keep the dentures above a towel or soft surface. Dropping the dentures, even just a few inches above a hard surface, can cause them to crack or break. Dentures must stay wet at all times and must not become dry. Thus, it is best to keep the dentures in water when one is not wearing them at night. In some cases, patients can keep their dentures in a cleaning solution overnight but will want to ask the dentist if that is best.
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By following these steps or the directions that a dentist gives, the patient will be able to continue wearing the dentures for long periods of time without damaging the dentures. We may recommend regular checkups to help keep an eye on the patient’s oral health to ensure the dentures are in working order.
If the dentures are not removable and stick to the patient’s gums, then the dentist will recommend a different cleaning regimen. In many cases, caring for implant dentures will be the same as taking care of regular teeth with brushing twice a day. Patients need to take care of their gums and mouth as well.
Keeping up oral health
If a patient, who wears dentures, does not take care of his or her mouth, then there is a greater chance for infection to form; even when one cares for the dentures. For patients who can remove their dentures, they need to gently brush their gums, palate and tongue. Brushing the mouth without the dentures inside it will help to prevent plaque buildup and infection. It is also crucial to seek regular oral health exams from the dentist.
Even if the patient has lost all of his or her teeth, it is important to seek professional dental care on a regular basis. A dentist will be able to tell a patient with dentures how often the patient needs to seek professional treatment. A dentist will be able to spot any damage and possible signs of infection before they spread.
If the patient needs any adjustments for the dentures due to a crack or chip in the dentures, we will repair or replace the dentures if necessary. In some cases, it will be easier to replace the dentures entirely. Dentures typically last about 5 to 10 years before needing replacement. Keeping the dentures in good condition can help prevent the need for more frequent visits to the dentist.
At Bliss Dental we will go over the proper care regimen for dentures with the patient before sending them home with his or her new teeth. During this appointment, we will also answer any questions the patient may have and address any concerns before the procedure. This way, the patient will not go into the procedure with any confusion or false pretenses.
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- Noelia Mejia
Frequently Asked Questions
No, if you live in the Kendall area, only certain dentists offer this type of prosthetic. We perform the procedure on a regular basis, and understand the clear benefit of providing patients with a durable set of replacement teeth.
For the most part, everyone can get the procedure. However, there are a few health factors to consider. We need to examine you to determine if you have any signs of gum disease or other infections that need to be corrected first. Simultaneously, there may be other health conditions that impact the procedure. Diabetics, for example, can receive implant supported dentures, but may need to wait for their blood sugar to be under control before we can begin. We can examine you in our 33183 dental office and let you know if we anticipate any roadblocks.
Yes, if you have worn dentures for years, you can upgrade your prosthetic. This is an ideal way to do so, because it gives you some of the stability you can expect from dental implants without the need for a drawn out procedure.
No, when you visit our office, we will provide you with any necessary sedation. At Bliss Dental, we understand that dental procedures can be intimidating, and we will take steps to ensure that you remain comfortable and relaxed during the appointment.
Some people will use the terms “mini-implants” and “implant supported dentures” interchangeably. While there are times where they are accomplishing the same thing, this is not always the case. A mini-implant is a titanium screw just like you would expect to see with a traditional implant. The difference is that it is much smaller. This makes it ideal for those suffering from a lack of bone density. Traditional implants require significant density since the implant itself is so long. This is not the case with mini-implants, making them a better solution for someone who has worn dentures for years and has suffered resorption as a result.
Within days of undergoing a procedure for implant supported dentures, you will start to feel like your normal self. You should be careful to avoid eating anything hard or difficult to chew, like a steak, along with anything sharp, like tortilla chips. This type of food can cause further irritation and only serve to prolong your recovery time. Instead, focus on eating soft foods that are easy to chew and can be chewed quickly. Things like steamed vegetables, yogurt, and warm soup are excellent options. If you watch what you eat, take it easy, ice the area, and use ibuprofen, you should feel better within a couple days. Since this is a less invasive procedure, the recovery time is much faster than if you were to undergo surgery for traditional dental implants.
Traditional dentures are designed to come out every night. They remain in place by wrapping around your gums and creating a suction effect enhanced by denture paste. This can be messy, and if your dentures slip, it can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. With implant dentures, your dentures snap into position, secured in place by the implants themselves. Your new teeth will look natural and be entirely secure, adding further enjoyment to your daily life. To learn more about this procedure, call 305-274-6500. Dr. Gaertner will be happy to meet with you and discuss all your options.
Why Choose Dr. Gaertner of Bliss Dental
As the son of a dentist, Dr. Gaertner’s passion for dentistry began at an early age. Following high school, Dr. Gaertner attended Nova Southeastern University in Florida where he earned his Bachelor’s of Science in Biology, then graduated with his Doctorate of Dental Medicine (D.M.D) degree. Dr. Gaertner has practiced dentistry in both the United States and his home country of Belgium and now calls the Miami area home.
He practices a variety of dentistry, including Cosmetic Dentistry, Smile Makeovers, Dental Crowns, Porcelain Veneers, Root Canal Treatments, Invisalign, and so on. Dr. Gaertner has also integrated the use of Dental Lasers and Botox injections into his practice.
Bliss Dental is a full-service facility, offering top-notch patient care and providing services that range from routine dental care to endodontics to cosmetic and restorative dentistry services that enhance patients’ smiles.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Terms. 2015
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2015
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2015
