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Dentures IN 

SUNFLOWER DENTAL SPA

A Solution for Missing Teeth

Dentures, or artificial teeth, are one of the tooth replacement options we offer our patients at Sunflower Dental Spa. Dentures can be used to replace all teeth in one or both arches or they can be used to replace a few teeth in an arch. There are several causes for missing teeth, including decay, gum disease, trauma, genetics, age, medications, and more.

Dentures improve your appearance by providing structure for your face, as well as making it possible to eat/chew, speak, smile, and laugh.

Ready to see your complete smile, again?
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Why Get Dentures?

The primary reason that people get dentures is to replace missing teeth. Some of the most common causes of tooth loss include:
  • Periodontal disease (gum disease)
  • Improper oral care habits
  • Extraction
  • Severe decay
  • Facial/jaw trauma
  • Genetic conditions
  • Infections
Why Get Dentures?
If the following applies to you, your risk of tooth loss is increased:
  • Older than 35
  • Male
  • Smoke/use tobacco
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Diabetes
  • Heart problems
  • Neglect professional cleanings/exams
  • Neglect proper at-home oral care
In addition, it's important to have sufficient jawbone structure and healthy gums to provide a stable base for the dentures.
Types of Dentures

Types of Dentures

There are several types of dentures. Some are removable and some are fixed. The best one for you depends on your lifestyle and your oral health status. Dr. Wetmore will also consider your preferences as well when determining the best choice.
Complete Dentures

Complete Dentures

Complete dentures are also referred to as full dentures. They are used to replace an entire set of teeth. Before recommending full dentures, we will take steps to save at least some of your natural teeth. However, if the other options have been exhausted, complete dentures may be necessary.

Dentures are typically made of acrylic and are supported by your remaining gum and jawbone structure. They do not offer the stability of natural teeth or implants. It is important to note that many patients develop a speech impediment with complete dentures because of the thickness of the material covering the palate. We are unable to thin the acrylic very much because it will ultimately cause the denture plate to fracture.

Advantages of Complete Dentures

  • Budget-friendly
  • Restores ability to eat/chew
  • Improves confidence/self-esteem
  • Maintains a youthful appearance

Fixed Partial Dentures

Fixed partial dentures, also referred to as implant-supported bridges, are used to replace several missing teeth with two dental implants and prosthetic teeth in-between, which are permanently glued or screwed in place.

For patients who are missing three or more teeth in a row, an implant-supported bridge is a great solution. Unlike complete and removable dentures, implant-supported bridges are fixed in place and may only be removed by the dentist.

Fixed Partial Dentures

Advantages of Fixed Partial Dentures

  • Improves appearance
  • Offers security compared to removable options
  • Stronger than removable options
  • Better bite
  • Consistent tooth positioning
Removable Partial Dentures

Removable Partial Dentures

Removable partial dentures replace a few missing teeth in the upper or lower arch and restore the look, feel, and function of teeth. They can be removed and replaced at any time.

This tooth replacement option is made of false teeth and an acrylic, gum colored base, which is attached to clasps that hold it in place. The clasps are metal or plastic and hook to the neighboring teeth for support. This option is ideal for patients who are not candidates for an implant-supported bridge.

Advantages of Removable Partial Dentures

  • Durable
  • Not easily breakable
  • Easy to remove for cleaning
  • Cost-effective
  • Prevents remaining teeth from shifting

Implant-Retained Dentures

Implant-retained dentures, also known as overdentures, are held in place by dental implants. Most of the time, at least four implants are used. Overdentures can be used on the upper and lower jaw. They are more stable than traditional dentures, but still must be removed at night for cleaning.

Implant-Retained Dentures

Advantages of Implant-Retained Dentures

  • Stable
  • Robust
  • Will not slip/slide while eating or speaking
  • Restores chewing ability
  • Custom fit
  • Aesthetically pleasing compared to traditional dentures
Immediate Dentures

Immediate Dentures

If you have all of your teeth extracted, you'll need to wait for 6 to 8 weeks to heal before traditional dentures can be placed. However, you will not have to be without teeth this entire time. You will be given removable immediate dentures, which will serve as a bandage for your gums.

While they are convenient, immediate dentures are challenging because they are not custom-made for your mouth. Also, they don't look natural and require more care. They help to create a smoother transition to permanent dentures.

Advantages of Immediate Dentures

  • Temporary solution for eating/talking after extractions
  • Allow you to have teeth while you heal
  • Serves as a bandage, minimizing swelling/bleeding, and helping extraction sites to heal

All-on-4 Implant Dentures

For patients who need a complete set of dentures, All-on-4 is ideal. They replace a full arch with 4 dental implants. The denture is permanently secured to the implants. You cannot remove it, but the dentist can for exams and cleanings.

All-on-4 Implant Dentures

Advantages of All-on-4 Implant Dentures

  • More durable than traditional dentures
  • More natural looking than implant-supported dentures
  • Temporary prostheses can be placed the same day as the implants

Steps for Getting Dentures

There are several steps involved in getting dentures and it will usually take several appointments. However, Dr. Wetmore will guide you through the process, making the transition as easy as possible.

Consultation

As with any other dental procedure, we will start with the consultation. During this appointment, Dr. Wetmore will explain the process. This will help you decide if you want to move forward with getting dentures or if you wish to consider another tooth replacement option. You will also have an opportunity to ask any questions and bring up any concerns that you have.

If you have dental anxiety, this is the time to let us know. This way, we can explain your sedation options. Otherwise, you will only be given a local anesthetic for any additional procedures required such as extractions, implants, and others.

Exam

Next, Dr. Wetmore will do a comprehensive dental exam to evaluate your overall oral health. She will look for signs of decay, infection, and other oral issues. For some patients, additional procedures are necessary, such as the elimination of soft tissue to accommodate the denture.

She will also check for previous dental work that can cause problems with the denture. In some cases, a partial can be used. In other cases, extraction of the remaining teeth is the best option.

Manufacturing of Dentures

At this time, a mold of your mouth will be taken. This is to ensure a custom fit. The mold will be sent to the lab so that the denture plates can be made. Dr. Wetmore will discuss your options for size, shape, and shade of your new teeth.

Adjustment of Dentures

Next, since your dentures need to fit perfectly, the length of the denture- or the maximum mandibular retrusion- will be determined with a loose-fitting tray. For this step, we will ensure the appropriate alignment between the upper and lower arches.

This step will ensure that your bite is perfect and there is no clicking sound when you are talking or eating.

Trying the Denture

Next, the loose tray will be replaced with the final teeth. If the fit is not comfortable, they will be sent back to the lab for adjustments.

Installation of Dentures

Finally, once all of the adjustments have been made and your dentures fit perfectly, they will be installed. This will allow you to speak and eat, while also improving your appearance.

Getting Used to Dentures

Be patient because it is going to take some time to get used to your new dentures- especially if you've been without teeth for some time. They have the same functioning as your natural teeth so, with practice, you'll get used to them in no time.

Caring for Dentures

Once your final dentures are in place, it's important to take proper care of them. This will ensure that they last for a long time and help you avoid infection. If your dentures are removable, soak them in a denture cleaner overnight. If they are fixed in place, make sure that you are brushing twice daily and using mouthwash. You may also want to use an interdental flosser to get in the crevices.

Average Cost of Dentures

Average Cost of Dentures

Most dental insurance policies cover a portion of the cost associated with dentures. The type of denture you choose determines the cost:

  • Complete dentures: $1,300 to $3,000 per arch
  • Temporary/Immediate dentures: $1,500 to $3,200 per arch
  • Removable partial dentures: $650 to $2,500 per arch
  • Implant-retained or snap-in dentures: $1,500 to $4,000 per arch

Schedule Your Denture Consultation Today

If you believe you might be a candidate for dentures, contact Sunflower Dental Spa today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Wetmore and the team. We are not your standard dental clinic. We have combined dentistry with a day spa feel because we want your dental treatment to be a pleasant experience. After all, if patients feel uncomfortable, they're less likely to seek treatment for their dental needs.

Take advantage of our amenities, such as complimentary beverages, blankets/pillows, massage chairs, and more.

Dr. Wetmore has the experience and expertise necessary needed to provide a variety of dental procedures for our patients. She can help you get your smile and confidence back as soon as possible.

FAQ's

If you are missing teeth, dentures may be a viable option. However, if you're like most patients, you have some questions. Some of the most common questions we are asked at Sunflower Dental Spa include:

How much do dentures cost?

On average, the cost of dentures ranges from around $650 for immediate dentures to more than $4,000 for implant-retained dentures. The cost depends on the type of denture you choose as well as whether or not you require additional procedures. In most cases, dental insurance will cover at least a portion of dentures and may fully cover them. Our friendly office staff will work with your dental insurance provider to determine coverage.

In addition, we offer financing if you need it to help you access the dental treatment you need as quickly as possible. We believe everyone deserves healthy, functional teeth and want to do everything we can to help with that.

Can you sleep with dentures in?

When you get your permanent dentures, Dr. Wetmore will instruct you as to how long to wear them. For the first few days, you'll need to wear your dentures (even removable ones) for 24 hours a day- even when sleeping. Though this may not be comfortable, it's the best way to determine if adjustments are necessary.

Once adjustments are made and the dentures fit perfectly, they should be removed and placed in a cleaning solution before going to bed. This will allow your gums to rest and allow the tongue and saliva to stimulate and cleanse the gums. You can put the denture back in when you get up the next morning.

What is the difference between dentures and immediate dentures?

The primary difference between traditional dentures and immediate dentures is that the immediate ones are temporary. They are placed if you have several extractions and act as a bandage to minimize swelling and bleeding. They are not customized to fit your mouth, so they may be slightly uncomfortable. Once your permanent dentures come in, the immediate dentures will be removed so the permanent ones can be placed.

Can you eat with dentures?

Yes, you can eat with dentures. You may find it challenging at first, but with time, you'll get used to it. You may find it easier to cut harder foods into smaller pieces and chew them on the sides instead of trying to bite into them with your front teeth.

Do dentures change your appearance?

Yes, especially if you have been without teeth for some time, dentures will change your appearance. They will make your face look fuller and improve your overall self-confidence.

How often should you visit the dentist if you have dentures?

At first, you may be visiting more often until you get them adjusted to a perfect fit and you get used to wearing them. After that, your dental exam and cleaning schedule will be the same as patients without dentures- every 6 months.

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