Dentures are an affordable and aesthetically pleasing solution for replacing all of the teeth on one or both dental arches. They are made up of a set of artificial teeth set into an acrylic base that fits securely over the gums. For patients who are either missing all of the teeth on a dental arch or who require extensive tooth extractions due to widespread damage or decay, dentures can help restore function and rejuvenate the appearance of your smile. Dr. Brian Stanworth has years of experience helping patients obtain a higher quality of life and improved self-confidence with dentures.
What Are the Different Types of Dentures?
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are removable appliances that can replace sections of adjacent missing teeth for those who do not require full-arch replacement. They are often designed to be anchored to the surrounding natural teeth for a secure fit. Dr. Stanworth takes the time to carefully match the shade of the replacement teeth to your remaining healthy teeth in order to create the most natural-looking restoration possible.
Complete Traditional Dentures
Complete dentures—also called full dentures—are designed to replace entire arches of missing teeth. These custom-crafted restorations are composed of a set of replacement teeth set into an acrylic base, which mimics the appearance of natural gum tissue. The appliance is designed to fit securely over the gums, and Dr. Stanworth will take thorough impressions of your entire mouth to ensure the fit is as comfortable and stable as possible. The end result is generally enhanced dental function and renewed self-confidence.
Implant Dentures
Implant-supported dentures are an innovative full-arch replacement technique that can provide increased comfort and stability while preventing much of the bone loss associated with missing teeth. Using a few strategically-placed dental implants—usually 4-6 per arch—a denture prosthesis can be anchored within the mouth. Depending on the technique used, this prosthetic can either be removable or permanently affixed. Dr. Stanworth can discuss the different options with you during your consultation.
What Are the Benefits of Dentures?
Dentures are designed to improve the quality of life for those who are missing full arches of teeth or multiple adjacent teeth. Some of the benefits they can provide include:
- Enhanced smile aesthetics
- Improved chewing ability
- Greater confidence when speaking and smiling
- Better support for your facial features, which can prevent cheek sagging
- A cost-effective tooth replacement option
The team has a huge heart to serve the city with honest, genuine, top quality dentistry.
Who is a Good Candidate for Dentures?
Dentures are typically recommended for people who are missing a large number of teeth or who need to have most—or all—of their teeth extracted. There are various reasons why a patient would need to have their teeth extracted. In many cases, the dentition is severely worn and degraded, having suffered from chips, cracks, breaks, and other forms of damage. In other cases, a patient may have chronic cavities, weak teeth, and/or other problems stemming from poor oral hygiene. Severe facial trauma and genetic factors can also play a role.
Regardless of why the teeth need to be extracted and/or replaced, dentures can provide a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing solution for restoring a patient’s smile. Dr. Stanworth can assess your candidacy for dentures during your consultation. He can also discuss alternative restorative dentistry options with you, such as dental implants and fixed dental bridges, to help you make an informed decision.
How Do I Clean My Dentures?
Traditional dentures are designed to be removed at night, at which time patients should carefully and thoroughly clean the entire denture appliance using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brushing your denture appliance at least once a day allows for the removal of bacteria, food particles, and other debris that can build up on the surface of the prosthetic. Once your dentures have been brushed, they should then be soaked in a denture-cleaning solution overnight. This process helps to remove plaque and keep your dentures feeling fresh and clean. Dr. Stanworth can provide specific recommendations regarding which cleaning products to use to keep both your dentures and your oral health in optimal condition.
How Much Do Dentures Cost?
Due to the personalized nature of denture treatment, the cost tends to vary significantly based on the unique needs of each patient. Some factors that can influence the final cost include:
- What type of denture is being created
- Whether any additional procedures are being performed (such as tooth extraction)
- The materials used to craft the denture prosthetic
- Whether your treatment is eligible for insurance coverage
During your consultation, Dr. Stanworth can thoroughly assess your oral health needs, allowing him to develop a custom treatment plan that is uniquely tailored to you. From there, our team can provide you with a personalized price quote. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can also help you review your dental insurance information in order to determine whether your denture treatment is eligible for coverage. For those interested in additional cost-saving opportunities, Signature Smiles also offers an in-house Dental Discount Plan that can help you save money on a number of restorative and cosmetic procedures.
Contact Signature Smiles
Do you have questions about dentures? Contact our office today to talk to one of our team members or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Stanworth.
