At Clarkston Dental Care, Dr. Michael Sesi offers dentures in Clarkston, MI, to patients missing permanent teeth. He often recommends implant-secured dentures over removable options for longevity and improved bite function. Dentures and partials are restorative dentistry treatments that we can provide to restore your mouth’s functionality and enhance your overall oral health.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are removable oral prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and some gum tissues. This common and affordable dental restoration is made of acrylic, metal, and false teeth. It can restore entire or partial rows of missing teeth on the top or bottom arch.
When many patients think of dentures, they think of removable dentures that they place in a glass at night. However, there are alternatives to traditional dentures that improve the look of teeth and bite function. We also offer implant dentures, which are dentures secured by dental implants.
Types of Dentures
We offer several types of dentures to accommodate each patient’s unique needs. Each type is custom-made to match your natural teeth’ size, color, and shape, ensuring an aesthetically pleasing outcome.
Complete Dentures
Complete or full dentures replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They are an excellent choice for individuals who have lost all their teeth or require extraction of remaining teeth due to decay or damage. Complete dentures come with a gum-colored base that supports artificial teeth, providing a natural look and feel. Dentures with muscle control, suction, and sometimes denture adhesive remain in place.
Partial Dentures
On the other hand, partial dentures are best suited for individuals who still have some natural teeth remaining. They fill the gaps left by missing teeth, preventing the remaining teeth from shifting positions. The false teeth are fused to a framework made from acrylic and metal. The framework includes clasps that snap onto a few of the remaining teeth to hold the prosthesis in place.
Implant Dentures
Denture implants offer an excellent option for those seeking an even more stable and secure solution. These involve attaching the denture to two to eight dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. The implant fixtures ensure the prosthesis stays in place without adhesives or clasps.
Removable vs. Implant Dentures
Traditional dentures are removable. While it may seem simple to care for these dentures, they do not fully support the bite. Removable dentures often use adhesives that can be messy and slip around the mouth. Patients with removable dentures may be unable to eat certain foods because their dentures are unstable.
However, traditional dentures are more affordable than implant dentures. The process of getting them will be quicker, and they will provide support for the facial muscles, helping to maintain your youthful appearance.
Dental implants can support dentures for more functional restorations. Implants are titanium screws that we place in the jaw bone. Once the implants fuse with the jaw bone, they create a stable foundation for dentures. Implant-secured dentures can look like real teeth and feel like natural teeth. You will never have to worry about your denture slipping, speech slurring, or messy denture adhesive.
However, dental implant placement requires surgery. You must be healthy enough to undergo the procedure and have enough bone density to support the implants. This type of restoration is also more expensive and will take significantly longer to complete.
Immediate vs. Conventional Dentures
In certain cases, we can provide immediate dentures, especially after extensive tooth extraction. An immediate denture is a pre-made appliance that your dentist will place right after they extract your teeth. It essentially ensures that you never have to be without teeth. The downside is that as your mouth heals and changes shape, your dentist will need to make adjustments or reline the denture for a proper fit.
Conventional dentures, on the other hand, are made after your gums and tissues have fully healed. This healing process can take 3-6 months after tooth extraction. These dentures, made from durable materials, offer the most personalized fit and require fewer adjustments compared to immediate dentures.
Receiving Dentures in Clarkston, MI
The process of receiving traditional dentures compared to implant dentures is very different. For traditional dentures, we simply take dental impressions that will be used to fabricate your dentures. We send the molds of your teeth to a dental lab, where they will create your custom dental restoration. It typically takes about two weeks for us to receive them.
Before implantation, we always ensure that patients are in good oral health for implant dentures. If needed, we can provide periodontal disease treatment or a tooth extraction. Then, we take digital impressions of the teeth, which we use to create the dentures. Next, Dr. Sesi places the implants into the jaw bone underneath the gums. Over three to six months, the implant posts heal.
Once the implants are secure, we place the permanent denture. We will provide you with a temporary restoration as your dental implants heal. Although patients who receive traditional dentures will have quicker treatment, implants provide permanent results. Dental implants stay in the mouth as long as patients continue to care for their oral health.
Denture Care and Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance are vital to extend the lifespan of your dentures. You must take care of your oral health and ensure that your appliance lasts and functions properly. This includes brushing your dentures daily with a soft bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste, rinsing it after every meal, and storing it in water or denture cleaner overnight. Also, visit your Clarkston, MI dentist regularly for a checkup to ensure you’re in good oral health and to monitor any changes in fit and comfort in your denture.
Denture FAQs
Dentures are one of the most popular forms of tooth replacement. Learn more by reading the answers to these commonly asked questions.
How long do dentures last?
Dentures typically last 5 to 10 years, though this can vary depending on factors such as care and wear. Over time, changes in your gum and jawbone structure may require adjustments, relining, or even replacing dentures. Regular dental checkups are important to monitor the fit and condition of your dentures.
Are dentures uncomfortable?
It’s common to experience some initial discomfort when adjusting to new dentures. This can include soreness, minor irritation, or difficulty speaking and eating. Most people adapt within a few weeks, but if discomfort persists, your dentist can adjust the fit to improve comfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help during the adjustment period.
Can I eat normally with dentures?
While you may need to adjust to eating with dentures, you should be able to enjoy a variety of foods after some practice. Start with soft foods and gradually reintroduce harder or stickier foods as you become accustomed to wearing dentures. Cutting food into smaller pieces and chewing slowly can also make eating easier.
Can dentures be worn at night?
While you can wear dentures at night, removing them while you sleep is generally recommended. This allows your gums to rest and promotes better oral health. Soaking dentures overnight in a cleaning solution can also help keep them clean and prevent them from drying out or losing shape.
Can dentures affect my speech?
Yes, wearing dentures may temporarily affect your speech, causing a slight lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain words. This is normal and usually improves as you get used to the dentures. Practice speaking out loud and repeating challenging words to help speed up the adjustment process.
Can dentures improve my appearance?
Dentures can significantly improve the appearance of your smile by replacing missing or damaged teeth. They also help support the lips and cheeks, preventing a sunken or aged appearance that often accompanies tooth loss. Modern materials and techniques make dentures look natural and blend seamlessly with your facial features.
Schedule a Consultation for Dentures in Dentures in Clarkston, MI to Restore Your Missing Teeth
Do you want to replace your old denture or restore full arches of missing teeth? Feel free to request an appointment with our dental team on our website or call 248-985-2906. Do not hesitate to ask our team any questions you have about dentures or implant treatment. They are always glad to help.