West:
West:
From the time of George Washington to the modern day, dentures have provided assistance for those in dire need of tooth replacements, and will continue to do so for many years to come. Dentures, as you probably already know, are removable devices that are fitted to replace the missing teeth, and provide functional and aesthetic relief. Typically, dentures are used by individuals who have lost many or even all of their natural teeth due to gum disease, tooth decay or other accidents/injuries. Fortunately in the time since President Washington wore his ivory (not wooden) dentures, vast improvements within the dental industry have been made. With today’s ever advancing technology, modern dentures are able to provide a reliable, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing solution for millions of patients nationwide.
Although it’s seldom known outside the dental profession, there are actually three different types of dentures available today, and each type can be used to address the specific needs of the patient.
As its name implies, a conventional denture is the most commonly known and sought after treatment for patients needing complete tooth replacement. The process of receiving a complete conventional denture typically comes in steps, as the dentures are only applicable after the remaining few teeth are removed and the gum tissues have entirely healed. Once your mouth has fully healed, Dr. Roberts will fit you with an acrylic base, in which the new artificial teeth are held within. As mentioned previously, these new artificial teeth are completely removable, and can last anywhere from five to ten years.
Although the above-mentioned conventional dentures are the most common and arguably best solution, the prospect of waiting a couple of months (the typical amount of time for gum tissue to heal) to receive them may prove too long for some patients. Therefore some patients opt for the immediate denture, which can be created and ready for use immediately after the remaining natural teeth have been removed, and can continue to be used through the duration of the healing process. Although immediate dentures are a popular quick fix, once the tissue has healed, the denture will likely need to be refitted, or even replaced altogether.
Although somewhat complex and often unfamiliar to those outside the realm of dentistry, the implant supported overdenture is quickly becoming the preferred style of denture among both patients and dentists alike, including Dr. Roberts. The loss of all your natural teeth can sometimes be particularly taxing on the overall health of the mandible or jawbone, resulting in damage or bone loss. Although this has sometimes been the case among denture users in the past, thanks to recent advancements in dental implants, the implant supported overdenture can prevent such an occurrence. To be a recipient of this unique denture option, you must have a strong and healthy jawbone, and must be willing to undergo minor surgery in order for the denture retainers to be inserted within the gum tissue. Once the implants are in place, the overdenture will snap firmly in place, creating a comfortable and secure fit.
While the appearance of your new dentures is almost guaranteed to please you, adjusting to using and living with your new set of dentures, might prove to be a bit more challenging. Perhaps the best approach when adjusting and learning how to correctly eat with your new dentures is to start with soft, easy to eat food, and taking baby steps while chewing. This can include; cutting your food into small bite size pieces, using both sides of your mouth to chew (in order to keep pressure even), and avoiding foods that are particularly hard or sticky. Fortunately these setbacks are generally temporary, and will dissipate as you become more familiar with your dentures; additionally Dr. Roberts at Adams Dental Group can make further adjustments to your dentures if necessary.
Another adjustment in living with dentures is denture hygiene. Like anything, your dentures will need a certain degree of daily care and general maintenance. While this may sound tedious at first, much of your denture care can be easily incorporated into your daily routine, and eventually become second nature. To properly maintain your dentures, you should take time each day to remove, rinse, and apply denture cleaner to the device. This should be done with great care, as dropping them or scrubbing them incorrectly could result in breaking or damaging your dentures. To avoid any unnecessary accidents, you may try doing this over a soft surface, and using a specialized toothbrush with extra soft bristles, made specifically for dentures. In addition to cleaning your dentures, you should still take the time to clean and brush your gum tissue and tongue.
As mentioned previously, dentures have long provided people (both past and present) with comfort and relief in the event of considerable tooth loss. They continue to become more and more effective as time goes on. Remember, even if you have suffered a substantial amount of tooth loss, there is no reason why you shouldn’t still be able to have teeth. So if you’re tired of eating only soft food, and ready for a new set of dentures, come see us! George Washington couldn’t tell a lie and neither will we when we say; you’ll love your new teeth!
Travis A. Roberts and his experienced, friendly team at Adams Dental Group offer affordable family dentistry and gentle dental care in the Kansas City, KS area. We have two locations that are conveniently located and offer appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At Adams Dental Group, we provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to specialty procedures, including dental implants, dentures, endodontic or root canal treatment, teeth whitening, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at our East location (913) 621-3113 or at our West location (913) 296-8030 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Travis A. Roberts, DDS June 20th, 2017
Posted In: Services | Procedures
Tags: dentures
