Dentures
Dentures at El Portal Dental Group
Dentures are dental appliances used to replace natural teeth and provide support for the cheeks and lips. We offer both partial and full dentures. Most dentures are made of acrylic and are fabricated in two different ways: conventionally or immediately. Denture teeth are made of plastic, porcelain, or a combination of materials.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored piece of acrylic. Partial dentures are removable and are usually prescribed for patients who have a remaining tooth or teeth but still need to fill in the missing gaps of other extracted teeth.
Full Dentures
Full dentures are used when the patient has no remaining natural teeth. Full denture sets are removable and molded to fit snugly and comfortably in the mouth, allowing normal function and appearance.
Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures are made before the extracting of the teeth and can be partial or full sets. Immediate dentures are placed immediately after the teeth have been extracted, allowing the tissues to heal underneath the denture. This type of denture solution is ideal for those who need complete extractions of the remaining teeth. Immediate dentures allow for those who must lose their teeth to avoid the embarrassment of a toothless smile.
Conventional Dentures
Conventional dentures are fully removable dentures that are made after all the teeth have been extracted and the gums have had time to heal.
Upper Dentures
Upper dentures include an acrylic piece, most often gum-colored, that covers the full roof of the mouth.
Lower Dentures
Lower dentures are shaped like horseshoes to leave room for the tongue.
Denture Care and Maintenace
- Dentures should be brushed daily with a soft, large nylon denture toothbrush that has round-ended bristles.
- Make sure to use denture creams instead of traditional toothpaste. Traditional kinds of toothpaste are abrasive and can scratch your denture.
- Make sure to use cold water on dentures because hot water can warp the dentures.
- Visit your dental professional regularly.
- If you find that your dentures are loose, have them checked with your dentist immediately as they can cause unwanted pressure on the gums and bones.
- Be sure to regularly inspect your denture to ensure that it is appearing and functioning properly.
- While you are not using your dentures, be sure to cover the dentures with water or a denture-specific cleaning solution-this aids in prevention of drying out.
- Check with your dental insurance policy to see the coverage provided.
As time goes by, you may have to get your dentures relined or rebased to ensure the fit and function are maintained.
For more information on our traditional dentures, call us at 209-385-1479.