Dentures

When you need a prosthetic solution for missing teeth, you have several options, including bridges, crowns, dental implants and dentures. All of these options are viable when done by a qualified dentist in Chicago, IL. So the choice comes down to your lifestyle and expectations. As it happens, one of the older treatment options remains one of the most popular, and that is dentures. Along with other technological advances in dentistry, dentures have improved dramatically just in the last few years. Learn more about this effective and popular solution for missing teeth.

What Are Dentures?

For anyone new to the concept of dentures, they are a kind of removal dental appliance, consisting of faux teeth and gums. Once inserted into the mouth, they mimic the look and function of real teeth and gums. There are two types of dentures:

• Full dentures make up a complete arch of teeth in the mouth.
• Partial dentures consist of a partial arch of teeth and are suitable for those who still have remaining natural teeth.

Note that, in all cases, the dentist strives to preserve as many natural teeth as possible, which is why partial dentures are such a valuable treatment option.

What Are Modern Dentures Made Of?

Dentures have come a long way since the times when George Washington had dentures. Today, they are made from advanced materials, such as acrylic resin, porcelain, composite resin, metal, flexible polymers, hybrid materials and more. The exact composition of your dentures will vary, depending on some personal choices you make at the dentist’s office and other factors such as desired appearance and affordability. Your dentist can help to guide your choices, explaining the benefits and drawbacks of each option.

Before Getting Dentures

Before getting dentures, your dentist will need to prepare your mouth. If you have underlying dental problems, those will need to be addressed. But dental treatment for underlying problems can also continue while you have dentures. You don’t have to be without teeth just because you’re being treated for dental concerns! This is different than if you were to get dental implants, where your oral health has to be in great overall shape before your implant work can be done.

During this initial stage, your dentist will examine your oral health. This includes checking the health of your gums, any remaining teeth and overall oral tissues. X-rays or 3D scans will be done so the dentist can get a detailed view of your jawbone structure and other relevant oral anatomy.

Custom Fitting

The next step is ensuring that you get dentures that work well and that are comfortable. Dentures are custom-made to fit the individual. Digital impressions will be made so that a very precise model can be created. This data will be sent to a dental lab, which will use it to manufacture custom dentures for you. These dentures will be made using the latest technology. Chances are, when you receive them, you’ll find that they fit like a glove!

Receiving Your Dentures

When the dentures are ready, they get sent back to your dentist. Once your dentist has a chance to examine the finished product, you’ll be notified to return to the dentist’s office for a fitting. There, you’ll be able to try out your new dentures for the first time! Your dentist will carefully examine the fit, asking questions of you and determining if the alignment, bite and position of the dentures is correct. If they are, and if you’re happy with the result, you’ll be sent on your way with a set of care and maintenance instructions. You’ll also be set up with a follow-up appointment for a week or so later, so the dentist can make sure all is well.

Getting Used to Dentures

Many patients have an adjustment period, where it feels awkward to be wearing dentures. If you stick with it and follow your dentist’s instructions, this stage will pass, and your dentures will soon feel like a part of you. The key is to wear them consistently.

If you have problems with loose or missing teeth, consider dentures in Chicago, IL at Mindful Dental. With the help of dentures, we can get you back on the road to smiling confidently again!