Full and Partial Dentures: Bring Back Your Smile with Our Dentist in Marysville WA
At Sunrise Dental, we understand that transitioning to dentures can feel like a big step, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. Whether you're missing some or all of your teeth, dentures can help restore both function and appearance, allowing you to smile, eat, and speak with confidence. Our dentist in Marysville WA is here to guide you every step of the way.
Understanding Denture Options
There are several types of dentures available, depending on your needs:
- Complete Dentures: These replace all teeth on the upper and/or lower jaw and rest directly on the gums. To enhance stability, they can be designed as overdentures, which attach to remaining tooth roots, or implant overdentures, which are secured to dental implants. Some implant overdentures are removable by the wearer, while others can only be removed by a dental professional.
- Partial Dentures: These replace only some missing teeth and attach to the remaining natural teeth using clasps or mechanical attachments. Precision or semi-precision partial dentures (also called attachment partial dentures) are held in place with components that ensure a more secure fit.
If you're unsure which option is best for you, our experienced dentist in Marysville WA can help you determine the most suitable treatment plan based on your specific needs and oral health condition.
Types of Dentures Defined
To make an informed decision, it’s helpful to understand the different types of dentures:
- Conventional Dentures: Replace all missing teeth in a jaw and rest on the gum tissue.
- Conventional Overdentures: Replace all missing teeth, rest on the gums, and are supported by attachment to one or more tooth roots.
- Implant Overdentures: Replace all missing teeth in a jaw and connect to surgically placed dental implants.
- Conventional Partial Dentures: Replace some missing teeth and are held in place with clasps that wrap around adjacent teeth.
- Precision and Semi-Precision Partial Dentures: Replace some missing teeth and are secured with mechanical attachments.
Our dentist in Marysville WA will discuss these options with you in detail, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the benefits and differences of each type.
The Process of Getting Dentures
Getting dentures involves several steps that can vary depending on your oral health, the number of missing teeth, and the type of denture selected:
1. Initial Evaluation: A thorough examination and impressions of your mouth will be taken to create a model for your new dentures.
2. Preliminary Treatments: If necessary, extractions will be performed to remove any unhealthy teeth. For those opting for implant overdentures, implant surgery will be scheduled.
3. Healing Time: After extractions or implant surgery, a healing period of several weeks may be required before the dentures can be fitted. During this time, a temporary or “immediate” denture may be provided.
4. Final Fitting and Adjustments: Once healing is complete, the permanent dentures will be fitted. Adjustments will be made to ensure the best comfort and fit.
What to Expect as You Adjust to Your Dentures
It’s natural to take some time to adjust to wearing dentures. Initially, you may feel a sensation of fullness in your mouth, face, lips, or cheeks, but this will subside. You might also notice slight changes in your speech or chewing patterns, which is completely normal.
Here are some tips to help you adapt more quickly:
- Speech: Speaking slowly and clearly will help your tongue and facial muscles adjust to the new dentures.
- Chewing: Start with small pieces of soft food and gradually increase firmness. Chew on both sides of your mouth with your back teeth. A small amount of denture adhesive may provide extra stability.
If you have any concerns during your adjustment period, don’t hesitate to reach out to our staff at Sunrise Dental. We're here to ensure your comfort and confidence every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a better smile!