At Gentle Dentistry in Tampa, Florida, we aim to preserve your natural teeth. Sometimes, we must resort to dentures and implant-supported bridgework to replace missing teeth. Artificial teeth, such as dentures, are common. You may have a pre-existing denture or partial denture you want replaced with something that fits and looks better.
Reasons For Dentures
Everyone’s oral health is unique. The most effective way to ensure their health remains good is to see Dr. Tong and his team every 3 to 6 months. That allows us to professionally clean your teeth, remove built-up tartar and plaque, and look for early signs of gum disease and tooth decay. When caught early, these are both quickly addressed. But if your dental health has been declining, there are early warning signs that it may be time to discuss dentures with Dr. Tong.
What Types Of Dentures Are Available?
Traditional Dentures
Dentures are held in the mouth with only passive retention. Impressions of the mouth are taken once teeth have been lost or removed, and dentures are made to fit the mouth. A complete denture replaces all teeth in an arch (upper or lower). A partial denture (“partial”) is made of metal or acrylic and can replace one or many teeth as long as you have healthy, strong teeth remaining to help support the prosthetic.
Typically, people with dentures must rely on denture adhesive to keep the denture in place. That is especially the case on the lower denture because the ridge of bone on the lower arch is much less substantial than the upper arch, so the denture “flops” more. The upper denture is usually the more stable denture, as it uses the upper palate’s surface area for added retention, acting like a suction cup.
Overdentures
An overdenture is a removable denture attached to dental implants. This option helps stabilize or retain the denture in the mouth. The denture will actually “click” into place like a snap-button jacket.
As far as dentures go, this is a much more stable and secure option, especially for your lower arch. Our opinion is that all lower dentures should be overdentures so that we can restore our patients’ confidence to chew, speak, and smile again without fear of floppy dentures.
Fixed Implant Dentures
Implant dentures and bridges are the ideal treatments as they are fixed (not removable) in the mouth and mimic the sensation of natural teeth. You do not remove these! Implants will replace the missing teeth (typically, four to six implants can replace up to 14 teeth), and your denture is attached to them. The advantage of implant dentures (also called implant bridges) is that they are the most durable and aesthetically pleasing option for replacing missing teeth.
Are These Dentures Safe?
The process for removing the decayed portion of the tooth is the same. Once the decay is gone and the tooth is clean, the space is shaped to prepare it for the filling. The space is then etched with an acid gel to aid bonding between the resin and the tooth. The composite resin is then placed in layers, hardened each time with a light. After the filling is complete, any uneven spots are removed, and the tooth is polished.
The Dentures Procedure
The process of receiving dentures isn’t immediate: it can range from several weeks for traditional dentures to 4 to 6 months for fixed implant-supported dentures. All types of dentures require several appointments to achieve optimum results. Once Dr. Tong determines the type of denture — traditional, overdentures, or fixed implant bridges/dentures — there is a general process, although it can vary depending on your situation:
- We make a series of impressions of your jaw and bite, measure the space between your upper and lower jaws, and detail how they work together.
- We create models, wax forms, or plastic patterns as demonstration dentures. You will try these for fit and function, and then Dr. Tong will use them to check the color, shape, thickness, fit, and overall performance of your dentures.
- Once you and Dr. Tong agree that the fit and structure are right, final impressions are made for your final dentures. These are then sent to the dental lab to guide the fabrication of your dentures.
- Once the dentures are finished, we test their fit and make any further adjustments. From there, Dr. Tong will probably make a few more minute adjustments as you get used to wearing your new dentures.
Call us to discuss your denture options in Tampa, Florida!
Dentures FAQs
How do I know when it’s the right time to consider dentures?
If you’re experiencing difficulty with chewing, persistent toothaches, shifting teeth, or have multiple dental restorations that are failing, it might be time to discuss dentures with us. Additionally, if you’ve noticed a change in your facial appearance, such as a sunken look due to missing teeth, our team can help determine if dentures are the right solution for you. We will conduct a thorough evaluation to identify whether dentures or another restorative option best fits your long-term oral health needs.
What is the difference between full dentures and partial dentures in terms of function?
Full dentures are designed to replace all teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, effectively restoring your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently. On the other hand, partial dentures are suited for patients who still have some natural teeth remaining. They provide stability by preventing remaining teeth from drifting. Both types of dentures are designed to enhance your comfort and functionality, tailored to your unique dental situation.
How long does it take to adjust to wearing new dentures?
Most patients typically need a few weeks to adjust to their new dentures. You may experience temporary changes in speech, mild soreness, or an increased flow of saliva during the adjustment period. To facilitate a smoother transition, please follow our dentists’ instructions, practice speaking aloud, and wear your dentures consistently. If needed, our team will make minor adjustments to ensure they fit comfortably as you adapt.
Are dentures comfortable to wear throughout the day?
Modern dentures are crafted using high-quality materials that enhance both comfort and stability. Once they are properly fitted, you should find that they sit securely and feel natural during your everyday activities. Should you experience any discomfort, we offer periodic adjustments to refine the fit and reduce pressure points. Maintaining good oral hygiene and gum health will also contribute to your overall comfort while wearing dentures.
How much do dentures typically cost, and does dental insurance help cover them?
The cost of dentures can vary based on the type you choose, the materials involved, and any necessary preparatory treatments. Our office works with various dental insurance plans that may cover a portion of the costs, particularly if dentures are essential for maintaining your oral health. We recommend discussing your insurance benefits with our team to obtain a detailed estimate and insurance breakdown, which will help you understand your potential out-of-pocket expenses.
How can dentures benefit my oral health beyond improving my smile?
Beyond enhancing your appearance, dentures can significantly improve your chewing efficiency, leading to better digestion and overall nutrition. They also help improve speech clarity and prevent the facial structure collapse that can occur with missing teeth. Properly fitted dentures will help distribute biting forces evenly, lessening the strain on any remaining natural teeth.
How can I find a dentist near me in Tampa, Florida, who provides high-quality denture services?
To find the right denture services in Tampa, contact our office to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team specializes in both removable and implant-supported dentures, providing personalized care to meet your needs. We focus on thorough evaluations, customization options, and follow-up adjustments to ensure your dentures fit comfortably and provide effective support for your long-term oral health. Contact us today to begin your journey to enhanced dental health!
Schedule A Consultation
To learn more about dentures, please contact our office today at (813) 734-7102 to schedule an appointment.
