Dentures and Partial Dentures
Dentures Dentist in Lake Stevens
A denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth
and surrounding tissue. They are made to closely resemble your natural
teeth and may even enhance your smile.
Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years, but may
have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.
Reasons for Dentures
-
Complete Denture - Loss of all teeth in an arch
-
Partial Denture - Loss of several teeth in an arch
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Enhancing smile and facial tissues
-
Improving chewing, speech, and digestion
What Are the Different Types of Dentures
There are two types of dentures -
complete and
partial dentures.
Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial
dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A Partial denture not
only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth
from shifting.
A Complete denture may be either “
conventional” or “
immediate.” A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed
and the gum tissue has healed, usually taking 4 to 6 weeks. During this
time the patient will go without teeth. Immediate dentures are made in
advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing
the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process.
Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will have to be made.
What Does Getting Dentures Involve?
The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, usually
over several weeks. Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements
are taken and used to create your custom denture. Several “try-in”
appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and fit.
At the final appointment, your dentist will precisely adjust and place
the completed denture, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit.
It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible
speech and chewing difficulty, however this will subside as your muscles
and tissues get used to the new dentures.
You will be given care instructions for your new dentures. Proper cleaning
of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits
will aid in the life of your new dentures.
Call or complete our Request an Appointment form today to schedule your appointment at our Lake Stevens dental practice.