Candidates for Dentures
Did you know that about one-quarter of adults over 65 are missing all their teeth? Dentures are a popular and effective solution for missing teeth, offering a natural look that’s often indistinguishable from real teeth. Think you might be a candidate for dentures? Let’s explore your options!
To be a good candidate for this restorative treatment you should:
- Want to replace several or all of your teeth.
- Be a non-smoker and avoid other tobacco products.
- Have a healthy jawbone (we’re here to assist!).
- Not experiencing dry mouth.
- Be ready to properly care for your dentures at home.
- Continue seeing your dentist for routine check-ups.
How do I take care of my dentures? To keep your dentures in great shape, make sure to schedule regular cleanings and check-ups. Even with perfect prosthetics, it’s important to visit your dentist occasionally. During your appointment, we’ll check the fit of your dentures and examine your gums, tongue, jaw, and overall oral health. Remember, we care about your complete oral health, not just your teeth!
To care for your dentures at home:
- Remove them overnight to let your mouth rest.
- Soak in warm water or denture cleanser.
- Don’t soak metal-clasp dentures in anything but warm water.
- Store in water when not wearing to prevent drying out.
- Avoid hot water for soaking.
- Clean and massage your gums while dentures are out.
- If your toothbrush irritates, use warm water or a damp cloth on your finger.
- Brush your natural teeth as usual if you have partial dentures.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, dental bridges can restore gaps caused by 1 to 3 missing teeth, while dental implants can replace any number of missing teeth. Implants typically require a higher initial investment and specific health criteria to qualify.
With proper care, dentures can last 5 to 10 years. However, as your mouth changes over time, you may need to consider getting a new set.
While you can wear dentures to bed, it’s recommended to remove them for soaking. This helps clean your mouth, gums, and any remaining natural teeth, allowing your gums and jaw to rest.
Top dentures should suction to your gums, while bottom dentures should stay in place without much movement. Partial dentures should align with your natural teeth. If you have concerns about the fit, feel free to schedule an appointment for adjustments.
Once you’re accustomed to your dentures, you can eat most foods. However, hard or sticky items like caramel, carrot sticks, or tough meats, as well as foods with small particles like popcorn or seeded crackers, may cause discomfort and should be enjoyed in moderation.