Whether you’re missing a single tooth or you’ve lost so many teeth that you’re struggling to eat, dentures are an effective, affordable, and versatile treatment for tooth loss. Dentures restore support to the muscles around your mouth to help improve your speech and facial aesthetics.
Restoring the missing tooth structure in your mouth will help you chew and grind foods and prevent existing teeth from drifting. Removable dentures make it easy to pop your artificial teeth in and out and make cleaning a breeze.
Dentures will improve your quality of life by improving your nutrition, pronunciation, smile, and confidence. Contact us at Strahler Dental Partners today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Strahler or Dr. Penshorn.
We’re proud to offer a diverse and comprehensive set of denture services in Schertz. Dr. Cody Strahler and our dental team have the experience, knowledge, and advanced technology that you need to protect your oral health.
When you’re missing many teeth, you’re likely a good candidate for full dentures. A full denture is a comprehensive replacement for tooth loss - replacing all of the teeth in an arch or both arches of teeth. Full dentures are only for patients with severe tooth loss, as the remaining teeth in any arch that is being replaced with dentures need to be extracted.
This is because a full denture is fabricated to be held in place through suction and this is done by forming a seal along the gumline. After extracting your teeth, you will need about 8 to 12 weeks for your gums to fully heal before you can be fit for dentures.
Through repeated trial fittings, adjustments will continue to be made to the denture that is fabricated in the dental lab until it fits as comfortably and accurately as possible. Full dentures have an average lifespan of about 7 to 10 years but you may need to replace them sooner if your facial structure begins to change due to bone loss.
A partial denture is more similar to a bridge in its structure except that it is removable instead of fixed. Partial dentures are attached to the abutment teeth with metal clasps to prevent them from moving. The placement of a partial denture fills in gaps, prevents drifting teeth after tooth loss, and assists with tooth functionality. Partials have a maximum lifespan of 15 years.
Modern dentures are fabricated with the use of advanced technology which allows us to create a precise fit that doesn’t slip, properly functions as close as possible to real teeth, and looks like natural teeth.
Your dentures are created in a state-of-the-art dental lab using highly durable and aesthetic materials to improve your smile and restore missing tooth structure. You will be able to regain the functionality of your teeth so you can eat your favorite foods and speak more clearly so others can understand you.
By filling in gaps in the smile and replacing missing or damaged teeth with dentures, you will improve your facial aesthetics and look more youthful. When you lose teeth, the underlying jawbone begins to resorb. This can cause your face to sag over time due to a lack of support around these muscles. The replacement of missing teeth with dentures also restores muscle tone in the face.
The lifespan of dentures can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the quality of the dentures, the material they are made from, and how well they are maintained. On average, dentures can last anywhere from 5 to 8 years, but this can extend longer with proper care. Over time, dentures may require adjustments, repairs, or relining due to natural changes in the mouth, such as gum and bone structure alterations. It's essential for denture wearers to have regular dental check-ups to ensure their dentures fit correctly and remain comfortable. Additionally, the lifespan of dentures is influenced by daily care routines and handling; proper cleaning and storage can significantly extend their usability.
Modern dentures are designed with aesthetics in mind and can be very natural-looking. Advancements in dental technology and materials have enabled the creation of dentures that closely mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. When creating dentures, attention is paid to the color, size, and shape of the teeth to match them to the wearer’s facial features and skin tone, ensuring a natural and appealing appearance. Furthermore, denture bases are typically made to resemble natural gum tissue, enhancing the overall look. At Strahler Dental Partners, we personalized care to ensure that each set of dentures is tailored to the individual’s needs, so they not only fit comfortably but also look as natural as possible.
Caring for dentures is crucial for maintaining their longevity and ensuring oral health. Here are some key steps in denture care:
- Daily Cleaning: Dentures should be cleaned daily using a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser. Regular toothpaste is often too harsh for dentures and can cause micro-scratches where bacteria can accumulate. Gently brush all surfaces of the denture, including under the clasps where bacteria can hide.
- Soaking Overnight: Most dentures need to remain moist to keep their shape. Soaking them in a denture-cleaning solution or in water overnight can help maintain their condition.
- Handle with Care: While dentures are durable enough to withstand regular chewing forces, they can break if dropped or stepped on. When handling them, do so over a folded towel or a basin of water to reduce the risk of damage if they are accidentally dropped.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Regular check-ups at Strahler Dental Partners are essential. These visits allow for professional cleaning of the dentures, adjustments for fit, and examination of the oral tissues for health and comfort.
- Avoid Certain Products: Avoid using bleach-containing products on your dentures as they can weaken the dentures and alter their color. Also, avoid hot or boiling water, which can warp them.By following these care instructions, you can help ensure that your dentures remain functional, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing for as long as possible.
