With so many advances in modern dentistry, fewer people need to wear full dentures. If you have older dentures or think you may need dentures, you're in luck. Denture technology in the Tyler area has never been better.
As people age, dentures can cause wearers to look older than they really are and can cause pain when chewing. Dr. Smith can replace worn out dentures with custom made, state-of-the-art dentures that blend with your skin, hair and even eye color. Your dentures will look as natural as possible, even down to the fillings.
Before going to the plastic surgeon, get a "face lift" with comfortable, attractive dentures at Smith Dental Care.
Dr. Smith, what are dentures?
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth.
What are partial dentures?
Partial dentures are dentures that replace only a few missing teeth.
What are complete dentures?
Complete dentures are dentures that replace a complete set of missing teeth.
Dr. Smith, what is the difference between conventional dentures and immediate dentures?
Conventional dentures are dentures that are made and placed after the remaining teeth are removed and the tissues have healed. Immediate dentures are dentures that are placed immediately after the removal of the remaining teeth.
What is an over-denture?
An over-denture is a denture that fits over a small number of remaining natural teeth or implants.
Dr. Smith, what do dentures feel like?
For a few weeks, new dentures will feel awkward until you become accustomed to them. They might feel loose until the cheek and tongue muscles learn to hold them in position. It is not unusual to feel minor irritation or soreness. The patient needs to see his or her dentist for regular fit adjustments to relieve any sore areas.
Do dentures need to be replaced?
At Smith Dental Care we find that dentures will need to be relined, remade, or rebased due to normal wear over a period of time and normal shrinkage of your gums and bones.
Are you able to eat with dentures, Dr. Smith?
Eating with dentures will take a little practice. You should start with soft foods that are cut into small pieces. As you become used to chewing, you can return to your normal diet.
Dr. Smith, are there foods you should avoid if you wear dentures?
There are only a few eating restrictions for denture wearers. Avoid biting down directly on crunchy or hard foods, like whole apples, hard pretzels, crusty bread, or large sandwiches. They can break because of the angle where the denture comes into contact with the hard surface.
Biting is limited only by the stability of the dentures themselves. Insufficient bone structure (shrunken bone ridges covered by gum tissue), old or worn dentures, and a dry mouth decrease stability. Call us at Smith Dental Care to evaluate your personal situation.
If I wear dentures, are dental adhesives necessary?
Today's dentures have been significantly improved through advances in both dental and materials technologies. As a result, dentures that fit properly usually do not require adhesives to secure the dentures. When you are just getting used to dentures, adhesives may be advised, but otherwise should not be necessary.
At Smith Dental Care we feel a loose denture is a sign that it doesn't fit your mouth correctly. When first getting used to dentures, you may notice them slipping when you laugh, smile, or cough, which is caused by air getting under the base and moving it. The more you wear dentures, the better you will be able to control their movements in these situations.
If your mouth has insufficient bone structure, dentures will be more difficult to retain. Dental implants may be advisable. These are placed in the bone and retain the denture with small, precision attachments.
