Dentures in Washington MO
James G. Mace, DDS offers dentures to help restore our patients’ smiles. We can provide dentures to restore complete sets of teeth on the top or the bottom. Patients typically choose dentures because they are the most affordable option for replacing an entire arch of teeth, or partial dentures to replace only some of the teeth.
What Type of Dentures are There?
We offer different types of full and partial dentures at James G. Mace DDS. Different materials offer unique advantages and disadvantages for each patient and situation. After his assessment, Dr. Mace will decide with you what type of denture is right for your smile. For many cases, patients benefit from the support and retention that dental implants provide for partials and dentures. Dr. Mace has the training and experience to place these implants, and can present you with options best-suited for your particular situation.
How are Dentures Made?
To make a set of dentures, first, you will have a consultation appointment with Dr. Mace. During this appointment, he will examine your oral health. After this, Dr. Mace and his team will take impressions of your mouth. There will be a number of appointments for determining how your teeth fit together, and trying in a wax set-up of your teeth to ensure the final result is natural and functional, and that you like the appearance of your new smile. The final appointment is delivery of your dentures, followed by appointments for adjustments as needed.
Do my Dentures Need to be Adjusted?
Yes. Over time the shape of your jaw changes. Since there is no longer a tooth root (or a metal post as in the case of dental implants) to maintain the bone, it starts to lose density. We recommend that patients come in every six months for a dental cleaning and exam. If you have both upper and lower dentures, we like to see our patients once a year for an exam and oral cancer check. We can assess if your dentures need to be adjusted during this time. However, if you have problems between appointments, feel free to call our office for an adjustment of your dentures and an exam by Dr. Mace.
How can I Care for my Dentures?
Caring for your dentures does take a few more steps than traditional dental hygiene routines. You should clean your dentures and perform dental hygiene twice a day. To start the process, first, remove your dentures and rinse them. It is essential to use warm water to remove bacteria. However, you should never use hot water because the heat can deform the denture. Brush the dentures as you would brush your teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with water, a mild soap, or denture cleanser. Cleansers also work well for soaking your dentures overnight, making them easier to clean. After thoroughly brushing the dentures, rinse off the dentures with warm water once again.
How to Care for Your Gums with Dentures
Plaque and bacteria can still build up on your mouth’s gums, tongue, or soft tissues. It is important to gently brush these structures twice a day. It is also essential to keep the dentures out of your mouth for several hours each day to give your tissues a rest. This will help the dentures fit better for a longer period of time. Most people prefer to simply keep their dentures out of their mouths while sleeping. Due to vanity, some patients don’t feel comfortable with this, so any three-hour period of time during the day will suffice.
Dentures are an affordable way to transform your oral health and the appearance of your smile. If you are missing multiple teeth, partial or complete dentures with or without the support of dental implants may be your solution. Call our office today to learn more about dentures or schedule an appointment.
