Tooth loss doesn’t just change how you look; it can also cause issues with eating and even affect your overall health. Luckily, there are reliable restorative treatments to replace missing teeth, like full or partial dentures. At our Silver Spring, MD, office, we offer dentures that provide a stable, natural-looking solution for missing teeth. Dentures can help you eat and talk more comfortably, restoring both function and confidence.
Our dentures consist of durable materials like acrylic or plastic, which fit securely on your gums. Keep reading to learn more about the denture options available at Advanced Total Dental Care.
Fixed (Implant-Supported) Dentures
Many people choose fixed dentures because they’re strong and stable. Dental implants hold these dentures in place, which are tiny posts placed in the jawbone. The implants provide a solid base for the dentures, making them feel more secure and comfortable.
To get fixed dentures, you’ll need two to six dental implants placed in your jaw. Dr. David Rever will guide you through the whole process, making sure you feel comfortable and informed. The procedure is done under local anesthetic, so you won’t feel pain while the implants are placed.
In some cases, we may provide temporary dentures while your implants heal. Once the implants have fused with your jawbone, you’ll receive your permanent dentures, giving you a new, stronger smile.
Removable Dentures
Depending on how many teeth you’ve lost, Dr. Rever will recommend either partial or full removable dentures. Dentures help you eat, speak, and smile like normal. Dr. Rever will work with you to decide which type of denture will work best for you.
Here are two types of dentures we can offer:
- Transitional Dentures: These are temporary dentures that help your gums and mouth adjust to wearing dentures. They don’t fit as perfectly as permanent dentures, but they’re useful while your mouth heals.
- Conventional Dentures: These are custom-made full or partial dentures. Dr. Rever carefully fits them to your mouth for comfort and function. You can get dentures that match your natural teeth, giving you a complete and comfortable smile.
Getting Dentures in Silver Spring, MD
Creating dentures involves both science and art. First, Dr. Rever will take a detailed impression of your upper and lower jaw ridges. We then send this mold to a dental lab where they will create the base of your dentures. Working together with the lab, Dr. Rever will choose the right size and shape of prosthetic teeth to give you a natural-looking smile.
For dentures to work properly, your bite needs to be balanced. This means the upper and lower dentures should come together correctly. Dr. Rever will make sure your dentures fit well and function as they should, helping you chew and talk without any problems.
Adjusting to Dentures
If you’ve just lost your natural teeth and are using immediate dentures, you may notice some tissue shrinkage or bone loss after a few months. This is normal and can cause the dentures to become loose.
You have two options if this happens: You can either have your temporary dentures relined, which involves adding material to the base so they fit better, or you can switch to a set of conventional full dentures. Full dentures typically last longer and provide a better fit.
With good care, dentures offer a functional and affordable way to replace missing teeth. They can help you regain your ability to eat, talk, and smile confidently again.
For more information or to schedule a denture consultation, contact our office at Advanced Total Dental Care in Silver Spring, MD.
Dentures and Partials FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions we get about dentures in our Silver Spring, MD, office:
Can you permanently attach dentures?
Yes, we can attach dentures permanently to dental implants. This type of denture is called an implant-supported denture. It’s a reliable and popular choice for replacing missing teeth, especially for people looking to replace a full row or old dentures. Implant dentures provide a stable, long-term solution.
Can I get dental implants if I already have dentures?
Yes, you can get implants even if you currently wear dentures. However, the process may involve some extra steps, like a bone graft, to rebuild your jawbone and make sure the implants fit securely. Long-term denture wear can affect your mouth’s structure, so you may need other procedures to prepare for implants.
What should I do if my denture breaks?
If your denture breaks, stop wearing it right away. A broken denture can hurt the sensitive tissue in your mouth. If you’re noticing problems like loss of appetite or bleeding gums, it might mean there’s a bigger issue with your teeth or gums. Be sure to schedule a visit with Dr. Rever to fix or replace your denture as soon as possible.
Can you whiten dentures?
Yes, you can whiten your dentures at home. You can find denture-whitening products available at most pharmacies. You can also use a mix of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to clean your dentures and remove stains. For the best care, it’s a good idea to visit a dental hygienist once a year for a deep cleaning of your dentures.
How do I take care of removable dentures?
Caring for removable dentures is simple. After every meal, clean them to get rid of food and bacteria. Use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste to brush them at least once a day. You should also soak your dentures in water with hydrogen peroxide or mouthwash overnight to keep them fresh.
How long does it take to get implant dentures?
In total, getting implant dentures can take anywhere from 4 to 9 months, depending on your specific needs. Pretreatments like bone grafting and gum disease treatment can add to treatment time. The longest portion of treatment is osseointegration when the implant posts fuse with the jawbone.
Are dentures comfortable?
Dentures can be comfortable once you get used to them, but it may take some time. At first, you might feel a little uncomfortable because your mouth needs to adjust to having the dentures in place. Dentures are custom-made to fit your mouth, so the more your dentist adjusts them, the more comfortable they will feel.
With time and proper care, most people find their dentures comfortable and easy to wear every day. If they start to feel uncomfortable or loose, you should visit your dentist for adjustments.
How much are dentures?
The cost of dentures depends on:
- Your number of missing teeth
- The type of denture
- Pretreatments
- Sedation
While implant-supported dentures cost more than removable dentures, they last longer. We will review the estimated denture cost before treatment. Dental insurance can also cover part of the cost of denture treatment.
Restore Your Smile Today
If you’re ready to restore your smile with dentures, call our office in Silver Spring, MD, at (301) 637-0960. You can also book an appointment online with Dr. Rever. If you have questions about dentures or other tooth replacement options, Dr. Rever will be happy to answer them at your next visit.