Dentures

Dentures are used to replace teeth and restore your smile. They can be used to replace your natural teeth which were lost because of tooth decay, gum disease, or injury. Dentures can improve your health because they make it much easier to eat and chew your food properly. They can also make you look younger because facial muscles may sag without teeth and dentures help to fill out your face and improve your appearance and profile.

Types of Dentures

Full Denture

Full Denture

Today’s dentures resemble your natural teeth and can be used to improve your smile. There are three main types of dentures used in today’s dentistry.

Conventional dentures can be removed when not worn and are placed in your mouth after your teeth are removed and the gum tissues have healed. This process may take several months.

Partial dentures are used when not all of your teeth are removed. They may be removable or part of a bridge to fill the gap where teeth are missing. Partial dentures are used when one or more of your teeth remain and can help your natural teeth from shifting and give you a natural bite.

Partial Denture

Partial Denture

Immediate dentures are placed on the same day that your teeth are removed so that you won’t have to go without teeth during the healing process. Dr. Buckingham takes measurements and models of your jaw during your first preliminary visit so that your immediate dentures fit properly.

If some of your teeth can be saved you may be fitted for overdentures. Sometimes teeth are kept in place to help strengthen and save your jawbone, as well as provide support and stability for your new dentures. Overdentures may also be used in conjunction with implants.

Dr. Buckingham will examine your teeth, jaw, and mouth and determine which type of denture is best for you.

Getting Used to Your New Dentures

For a few weeks your new dentures may feel a bit awkward. They may feel loose for a time until your muscles of the cheek and tongue learn to keep them in their proper place. You may also feel some minor irritation or soreness, and you may notice an increase in saliva production. All of these symptoms will pass in time, and follow up visits to your dentist for examination and adjustments are important.

Like your natural teeth you need to take care of your new dentures. Brush your tongue, gums, and roof of your mouth each day with a soft-bristle toothbrush before you insert your dentures. This cleanses you mouth and helps to increase circulation and remove plaque. Rinse and brush your dentures each day before cleaning them. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to prevent scratches on your dentures. When you’re not wearing them keep them covered with water in a safe place so that they do not warp.

Call or contact us today if you have any questions or want information about dentures. At Buckingham Dental we want you to have the smile you deserve, and we look forward to hearing from you soon!