Dentures
Dentures
Dentures are an affordable option for replacing 1 or many missing teeth. Today’s full and partial dentures use lightweight materials that make wearing them more comfortable while also reducing slippage. In Boonton, New Jersey, Dr. Sharmila Chopra is a trusted provider of dentures for patients at Alpine Family Dental, using advanced techniques to ensure every denture fits comfortably and securely, so patients feel confident about the way they look.
Dentures Q & A
Full dentures replace all the top teeth or all the bottom teeth while partial dentures replace only a few teeth. Dentures consist of a strong, gum-colored framework that supports artificial teeth. The base or frame of the denture is designed to “hug” the gum contours to prevent slippage and discomfort. Partial dentures are often used in place of a dental bridge, especially in areas where a dental bridge cannot be sued, like far in the back of the mouth where there is no tooth to support the bridge on 1 side.
Teeth are “designed” to function in pairs. When a tooth is lost, it disrupts this normal bite balance, resulting in uneven tooth wear and increased risks of decay and other damage. Plus, once a tooth is lost, the teeth on either side of the gap begin to lean inward and their roots begin to weaken. Over time, these effects can cause a “domino effect” and eventually result in additional tooth loss. And finally, the loss of even a single tooth can cause problems with eating and talking, not to mention a decline in self-confidence. When multiple teeth are lost, the shape of the face can be altered as well.
The denture-making process begins with impressions of the patient’s teeth and gums. These impressions serve as models for the dentures, which are made in a special lab using state-of-the-art, lightweight materials that look just like natural teeth. Once the dentures are made, Dr. Gyanchand
carefully fits them to the patient’s mouth, adjusting them so they fit comfortably and snugly on the gums. For added security, denture adhesives can be applied to the denture to help them “stay put.”
That depends on the number of teeth being replaced. In most cases, adjustment takes a week or two. Patients may find adjustment is easier if they spend time reading aloud and eating a variety of foods.
Dentures that slip can be embarrassing, and they can also cause sore spots that can lead to serious infections. If dentures stop fitting well, call the office to schedule an appointment so Dr. Gyanchand can adjust them. Patients should always take their dentures with them when they have an
appointment to ensure the dentures fit properly and remain in good shape.
