WHAT ARE DENTURES?
A denture, or a complete denture as it is often called, is a prosthetic device that is inserted into the mouth. It replaces natural teeth and provides support for the cheeks and lips. These teeth are made of plastic, porcelain or a combination of the two.
Most dentures are made of acrylic and can be fabricated in two different ways. First, a conventional denture is made after all of the required teeth have been extracted and the tissues (gums) have healed. Alternatively, an immediate denture is fabricated and inserted immediately after the teeth are extracted and the tissues are allowed to heal under the denture.
An upper denture has an acrylic section, which is usually flesh-colored, that covers the palate (roof of the mouth). A lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to leave room for the tongue.
Dentures can be fabricated to fit over endodontically treated teeth and a complete denture can be attached to dental implants to allow for a more secure fit of the appliance.
Depending on your oral situation, you may require full or partial dentures. To learn more about dentures, click on the video below.
DENTURES OVER TIME
Dentures over a normal course of time will wear and will need to be replaced or relined in order to keep the jaw alignment normal.
The alignment will slowly change as the bone and gum ridges recede or shrink due to the extraction of the teeth.
Regular dental examinations are still important for the denture wearer so that the oral tissues can be checked for disease or change.
HOW TO KNOW IF I NEED DENTURES?
This will be a conversation to have with Dr. Lauvetz-Enmeier as she will be able to determine your oral health and if dentures should be an option.
This could be the case if you have suffered from tooth loss as a result of periodontal disease or even due to an accident or age.
Removable partial dentures:
Please contact our office if you live in the Stillwater, OK area and are considering opting for dentures. Our helpful team will answer any questions you may have.
