Dentures in Kent, WA
If you are missing teeth, it is very important to your oral health and function that you replace them. Dr. Amrita Majumdar believes appliances called dentures are one of the best options for tooth replacement. Dentures are intended to recreate the appearance of a complete, attractive smile, and restore normal chewing and speech. Not replacing missing teeth can lead to complications like the inability to chew properly, shifting of the remaining teeth and sagging of the facial muscles. Luckily, today’s dentures are more comfortable, functional and attractive than ever, and can help preserve natural-looking facial contours.
How Dentures Work
Dentures can replace all or only some of your teeth. Complete dentures are designed to replace all of the teeth in your upper or lower jaw and rest on the gums. Partial dentures are meant to replace several teeth or clusters of teeth by connecting to your surrounding natural teeth. Complete and partial dentures are made of false teeth attached to a pink acrylic base meant to mimic gum tissue. Traditional dentures are removable and can be taken out and put back into your mouth. But nowadays, many people with dentures are choosing to anchor the implants to dental implant posts for added stability and comfort.
The Fitting and Placement of Dentures
Your dentures will be customized to the unique measurements and contours of your mouth. Producing your dentures requires some careful preparation and planning. Dr. Amrita will first conduct a thorough examination of your gums and supporting bone structure, and decide what type of dentures (partial versus complete) you need. He will take impressions of your gums to send to the dental laboratory that is tasked with creating your dentures. He will also specify the shade of the dentures to closely match any remaining, healthy teeth.
Dr. Amrita may or may not need to extract any remaining weak or failing teeth before the placement of your dentures. If that is the case, he can fit you for temporary dentures to wear while your permanent appliance is being created.
Once your customized dentures are ready, you will return to the office for another office visit. Dr. Amrita will try your new dentures on in your mouth and check the fit and feel. Tiny adjustments or tweaks can be made as necessary.
There will likely be a slight adjustment period as you adapt to your new smile. You should remove your dentures at night and clean and store them properly to maintain their integrity. You may also need to practice speaking or chewing with your new dentures. Eating soft foods for a few days after receiving your dentures may be helpful.
Dentures may need to be relined or remade every five to seven years. If you find it difficult to eat or speak with your dentures and want more stability, you should inquire with Dr. Amrita about your options to anchor the dentures to implant posts.
