Renew Your Quality of Life and Oral Health with Dentures

Traditional Dentures: The Basics

The materials used to make dentures today are highly aesthetic, resembling real teeth and gum tissue, while also delivering excellent durability. Dr. Nordhus is adamant about creating dentures that fit comfortably, so that patients do not need to think about their dentures or mouths, and can enjoy smiling and speaking with great ease and confidence.

During your consultation, Dr. Nordhus will examine your oral health and dental records, talk with you about your lifestyle and medical history, then help you decide which type of prosthetic will best serve you.

There are two types of traditional dentures: partial and full. The primary components of a partial denture are clasps that inconspicuously attach to healthy teeth, a base to hold replacement teeth, and the replacement teeth. Partial dentures replace many missing teeth on the upper or lower arch, while full dentures replace all teeth of one arch.

A full denture consists of a gum-colored base and custom-made replacement teeth positioned securely on the base. Traditionally, an upper denture, or maxillary denture, can be anchored in place with natural suction or denture adhesive. Lower dentures, or mandibular dentures, require denture adhesive.

What Are Implant-supported Dentures?

Implant-supported dentures are by far the most secure and long-lasting option for dentures, eliminating the potential for slippage and relining. Instead of using suction or adhesive to hold your prosthesis in place, implant-supported dentures are attached to dental implant posts. Your dentures can be permanently affixed to the implants, or patients can choose removable dentures.

With implant-supported dentures, patients will be able to eat a variety of crunchy, chewy foods. Since dental implants replace lost teeth roots, they significantly improve your oral health by stimulating the jawbone, deterring bone recession and deterioration.

Maintaining Your Dentures

To help maintain the longevity of your dentures, you should develop a habit of properly caring for them. Traditional dentures should be brushed with a special brush and cleanser, rinsed after meals, and kept moist when not being worn. Over time, the natural bony ridges beneath your gums will wear smooth, due to bone recession and friction from the dentures. This can cause your dentures to fit differently. You will periodically need to reline or replace your prosthetic. With proper care, traditional dentures can last five to ten years.

With regard to implant-supported dentures, patients will need to take care of them just as they would their original teeth. Patients should brush and floss twice daily. Even though the prosthesis is no longer affected by decay, bacteria in the mouth can lead to gum disease and bad breath. Patients will need to schedule routine check-ups, to monitor the dentures and oral health. If you choose removable implant-supported dentures, cleaning them will be similar to traditional dentures, which can be reviewed with Dr. Nordhus. 

Schedule Your Consultation

During your consultation, Dr. Nordhus will examine your oral health and dental records, talk with you about your lifestyle and medical history, then help you decide which type of prosthetic will best serve you. To learn more about your denture options, or to schedule your personal consultation, contact us today.