Understanding Your Denture Options
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are custom-made to fit your mouth and match the appearance of your natural teeth. The type of denture that works best for you depends on how many teeth you are missing, the condition of your remaining teeth and gums, and your personal preferences.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures replace all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw, or both. They rest directly on your gums and are held in place by suction and the natural contours of your mouth. Complete dentures are typically recommended when you have no remaining natural teeth in an arch or when the remaining teeth are not healthy enough to be preserved.
These dentures can be conventional or immediate. Conventional dentures are made after your remaining teeth have been removed and your gums have had time to heal, which usually takes several weeks. Immediate dentures are prepared in advance and can be placed on the same day your teeth are extracted, allowing you to avoid going without teeth during the healing period. Immediate dentures often require adjustments as your gums heal and change shape.
Partial Dentures
If you still have some healthy natural teeth, a partial denture can fill the spaces left by missing teeth. Partial dentures consist of replacement teeth attached to a base that matches the colour of your gums. They are held in place by clasps that attach to your remaining natural teeth, providing stability while allowing you to remove the denture for cleaning.
Partial dentures also help prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of position, which can lead to bite problems and additional tooth loss over time. They restore your ability to chew a wider variety of foods and help maintain the natural structure of your face.
Implant-Supported Dentures
For patients seeking greater stability, implant-supported dentures offer an alternative to traditional removable dentures. This option uses dental implants as anchors to secure the denture in place. The implants are surgically placed in your jawbone, and once integrated with the bone, the denture is attached to them.
Implant-supported dentures may be removable or fixed. Removable versions attach securely to the implants and can be taken out for cleaning, while fixed versions remain in place and function similarly to natural teeth. This type of denture can improve chewing ability, reduce concerns about slipping, and help preserve jawbone density by stimulating the bone.
The Denture Process
Getting dentures involves several appointments to ensure a proper fit and natural appearance. During your initial consultation, Dr. Sante Aceti or Dr. Juliana Galessiere will examine your mouth, discuss your goals, and recommend the most appropriate type of denture for your needs. We use digital X-rays to assess the health of your jawbone and any remaining teeth when necessary.
If extractions are required for complete dentures, we allow time for your gums to heal before taking impressions. We create detailed models of your mouth to support an accurate and comfortable fit. You will have the opportunity to review the appearance and fit before your denture is finalized so adjustments can be made as needed.
Once your denture is ready, we provide instructions on how to insert, remove, and care for it. Follow-up appointments allow us to address any concerns and refine the fit as your mouth adjusts.
Adjusting to Your New Dentures
Adapting to new dentures takes time. They may feel unfamiliar at first, and you may notice increased saliva production. These sensations are normal and typically improve as your mouth adjusts. Speaking may also feel different initially, and practising at home can help you adapt more quickly.
Begin with soft foods cut into small pieces and chew slowly on both sides to maintain stability. Gradually reintroduce a wider range of foods as you become more comfortable. If you experience ongoing sore spots or difficulty with the fit, contact our office so we can make the necessary adjustments.
Caring for Your Dentures
Proper care helps extend the life of your dentures and maintain oral health. Remove and rinse your dentures after eating to clear away food debris. Clean them daily with a soft brush and a denture cleanser, as regular toothpaste may be too abrasive. When not in use, store your dentures in water or a recommended soaking solution to prevent them from drying out.
Continue to care for your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth by brushing daily. Regular dental visits remain important so we can monitor your oral tissues and assess the fit of your dentures. Over time, changes in your gums and jawbone may require adjustments to maintain comfort and function.
Get Dentures in Niagara Falls
If you are living with missing teeth or dentures that no longer fit comfortably, Niagara Dental Centre can help. Contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sante Aceti or Dr. Juliana Galessiere. We will evaluate your oral health, review your options, and develop a treatment plan designed to restore your smile and support your daily comfort.