According to dental experts, your natural teeth should last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. However, due to a variety of issues from genetics to poor oral care to lack of access to proper dental care and so much more – tooth loss is one of the most common dental issues for adults in the United States.
This is why tooth replacement procedures are so popular. Most patients choose dentures because it is the most affordable option. Here’s what you need to know about dentures before and after at Baker Family and Cosmetic Dentistry of Clearwater.
What are Dentures?
Dentures, also referred to as false teeth, are prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. Dentures may be partial, full, or implant-retained/supported. Since dentures typically rest on the gums, they are designed to be removed before sleep to allow the gums time to rest. Dentures may also be implant-supported/retained, which offers the stability of implants with the affordability of conventional dentures.
Types of Dental Problems Before Dentures
Tooth loss can lead to a variety of problems including:
- Difficulty with chewing, swallowing, and digestion
- Reduced self-esteem
- Dietary issues, possible malnutrition
- Altered bite, resulting in malocclusion
- Jawbone deterioration
- Weakened jaw structure/muscles
- Increased risk of additional tooth loss, tooth decay, and other dental concerns
Dentures Before And After: Rediscover Your Smile
Dentures are designed to replace missing teeth and resolve most of the issues that are associated with missing teeth. Some challenges faced with dentures before and after are as follows:
Challenges Faced Before Dentures
Missing teeth can cause a variety of issues including difficulty eating and swallowing- which leads to difficulty with digestion and may result in malnutrition. In addition, missing teeth can have a detrimental impact on your self-esteem.
Dentures After Transformation
Dentures can solve many of these issues, improving your overall quality of life in many ways.
Why Choose Baker’s Cosmetic & Family Dentistry For Dentures In Clearwater, MN
Dr. Baker has been a top-rated dentist in the Clearwater area since 2009. He has the experience and expertise to work with patients of all ages from pediatrics to seniors and everyone in between. He can help you and your loved ones get your smile back, no matter what.
Benefits of Dentures
The benefits of dentures include:
- Improved chewing function and nutrition
- Enhanced appearance
- Improved speaking ability
Dentures Procedure In Clearwater, MN
The process of getting dentures at Baker Cosmetic and Family Dentistry of Clearwater is fairly straightforward. We start with a consultation exam to determine if you are eligible for dentures.
Then, an impression/mold will be taken of your mouth. This will be sent to the dental lab for the fabrication of your dentures. Once the lab has completed the dentures, they will be sent back to the office.
When you come to pick them up, we will ensure that they fit properly before sending you home with them. If they do not fit properly, we can make some adjustments in-house. If it’s a major adjustment, they will need to be sent to the dental lab.
Dentures Aftercare
Dentures should be removed daily before bed for cleaning. You should brush them carefully to remove any bacteria and/or food debris before placing them in a denture solution to soak.
Then, you must brush your gums and any remaining teeth. If you do have remaining teeth, you should also floss. This will help prevent future oral health issues
Conclusion
Dentures are an affordable way to replace missing teeth. Many benefits come with dentures, but also drawbacks. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Baker and the team at Baker Cosmetic and Family Dentistry to learn more about dentures and your other options for tooth replacement.
FAQs On Dentures In Clearwater, MN
If you have started researching your options for tooth replacement, Dr. Baker will be happy to discuss your questions and concerns. He acknowledges the importance of understanding dentures before and after what to expect from your dental procedures. Below we’ve answered a few of the most commonly asked questions about dentures:
What is the downside to having dentures?
While there are a few benefits to having dentures, there are also several disadvantages, including getting used to a foreign object in your mouth, lack of stability, susceptibility to breakage, and so much more.
Why do dentists not recommend dentures?
Most dentists advise against conventional dentures because they only sit on top of your jawbone. You will continue to have the same issues that you already do with missing teeth. The only way to mitigate these issues is with implant-based options.
Who is not a good candidate for dentures?
Most people who are missing some or all of their teeth are good candidates for conventional dentures. However, there are a few exceptions:
- Only missing one or a few teeth
- Short gag reflex
- Flat ridges
- Tooth loss limited to one side of the jaw
According to the study, in these cases, dental implants or a dental bridge may be a better option.
How long does it take to talk normally after getting dentures?
Learning to speak after getting dentures can be challenging. However, most people can speak normally after the first few days of wearing dentures.
How many hours a day should I wear my dentures?
Your dentures should be worn an average of 16 to 18 hours a day, which means you should only take them out at night when you will be sleeping.
How many times should I brush my dentures?
When you take your dentures out before bed, you should take the time to brush them before you put them in the denture soak. If you wish, you can also brush them the next morning.
Is there a special toothpaste for dentures?
While there are special kinds of toothpaste designed specifically for dentures, you are not required to use them. You can use any toothpaste you like, as long as it’s non-abrasive and you use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
What is the biggest problem with dentures?
The biggest problem with conventional dentures is the lack of stability. They tend to slip and slide around in the mouth, which makes daily tasks difficult.
