Warren Dentistry is now Westview Dentistry. New name, same great team!
Warren Dentistry is now Westview Dentistry. New name, same great team!
Dentures are removable dental prosthetics designed to replace missing teeth. Commonly called “plates” or “false teeth,” dentures restore the function and appearance of natural teeth. While the term “denture” can refer to both fixed and removable tooth replacements, it most often means removable appliances that replace some or all teeth. Dentures have been used by dentists for centuries as a reliable solution for tooth loss.
We typically divide dentures into a few different categories. They are all removable, and they all contain pink gum material as well as the teeth.
Traditional Full Dentures – Traditional dentures include a large pink acrylic base that contains the plastic teeth. They rest on the gum tissues inside the mouth and rely on both a suction effect and muscle training to stay in the mouth.
Immediate Dentures – Immediate dentures are a type of traditional dentures that are ready for placement before the dentist extracts the teeth. That means the dentist extracts the teeth and immediately places the denture in the mouth. Most people prefer this treatment because it does not require you to go through any period without teeth.
Implant-Supported Dentures – Implant-supported dentures connect with dental implants in the jawbone, creating a secure attachment between the denture and the implant. The connection with the implants eliminates the possibility of the denture falling out. Implant-supported dentures do need to be removed nightly for cleaning.
In order to make a denture, your dentist works closely with a dental lab technician. We begin with detailed replicas of your gums (and teeth if we are planning an immediate denture). We work with the patient to select the size, shape, position and color of the teeth. The denture process includes several visits in our office for molds, measurements and try-ins.
When the final denture is ready, you return for a delivery appointment, which includes bite adjustments and fit adjustments as needed.
If you have never worn dentures before, you can expect a significant adjustment period. It takes time to develop the muscle control necessary to eat, drink, speak, and laugh with the new prosthetics in place in your mouth. You will begin with soft foods only, and over time, you will be able to return to eating a relatively normal diet.
It is common for the dentures to create sore spots on the gums due to friction. You should expect to return for adjustments several times within the first few weeks of wearing your new dentures.
Yes.
We still recommend yearly visits for evaluation of the dentures, professional cleaning of the dentures, and most importantly, an oral cancer screening.
It is common for denture fit to deteriorate over time due to changes in the gums and underlying jawbones. We can improve the fit of a denture with adjustments and relining the interior surface. Cleaning the dentures in a professional solution reduces the risk of fungal infections like thrush and keeps the denture teeth from looking yellow or dingy.
Oral cancer screenings are for every person, with or without teeth. Early detection is the key to beating oral cancer, so don’t miss a yearly visit with your dentist!
For more information on dentures, read our blog on A Guide to Restorative Dentistry.
Many people grind or clench their teeth while during the day or sleeping. If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or notice that your teeth are wearing down or cracking, you may need a night guard. A consultation with your dentist is the best way to determine if a custom night guard could benefit you.
Preventive care is key to maintaining healthy teeth. Preventative dentistry includes things like regular at-home hygiene, exams by your dentist, oral cancer screenings, and dental x-rays. But one commonly overlooked tool for prevention is a custom night guard. Night guards are a simple yet powerful dental appliance designed to protect your teeth from damage caused by clenching or grinding while you sleep.
People who subconsciously grind or clench their teeth during sleep suffer from a condition known as bruxism, often caused by stress or tension.
Many people with bruxism only become aware of their condition once they or their dentist notice the signs. Upon waking up, you may have headaches or jaw pain. At your dental visit, your dentist may see abnormal tooth wear, shortening or flattening of teeth, cracked/ fractured teeth or fillings, or gum recession.
The best protection against bruxism is a custom-made professional night guard. A custom night guard is designed specifically for you using advanced 3D imaging technology. Made from a thin, clear acrylic material, a professional night guard provides a comfortable fit and protects your upper and lower teeth.
While a night guard won’t stop teeth grinding, it can significantly reduce its dangerous effects. By creating a barrier between your teeth, night guards prevent damage caused by grinding and reduce the pressure on your jaw muscles.
If left untreated, night time clenching and grinding can lead to serious problems with your oral health, like:
These conditions will become more severe over time and may require costly treatment to restore your oral health to proper function. A custom night guard offers long-term protection against damage or dental trauma. By preventing wear and tear on your teeth, you can save time, money, and discomfort.
Remember, preventive care is the foundation of great oral health, and a custom night guard could be the perfect step to protect your smile.
We’re here to provide personalized care so your smile stays healthy for years to come. If you may be experiencing headaches, jaw pain, or signs of tooth damage caused by clenching or grinding, please schedule an appointment with our team today.
Should you have any questions or concerns regarding your dental care, we are more than happy to discuss how you can achieve a beautiful and healthy smile.
As a top dentist in Fort Worth, we have helped hundreds of families achieve their oral health goals and are eager to help you and your family do the same.