Dentures / Prosthesis

Dentures are removable hardware that helps replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue. Dentures come in two forms: partial or complete. Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain and work by not only filling in the gaps created by missing teeth, but also preventing other natural teeth from shifting. Complete dentures are used when all teeth are missing.

Although dentures are extremely durable and made specifically for your mouth, they might have to be eventually adjusted, repaired, or completely remade. They must be properly cared for every day, just like regular teeth. Always use a gentle brush or cleanser to clean your dentures, keep them moist at all times when not in use, and be sure to keep your own tongue and gums clean as well.

Reasons for considering dentures:

1. Loss of all teeth or several in an arch
2. Loss of smile
3. Slurred speech due to absence of teeth
4. Lack of chewing and digestion

Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures:

1. What should I expect on my first visit?
   Our Dentist’s goal during the first visit is to assess your condition to see if you’re a good candidate for dentures and give you a reasonable expectation of the function, appearance and cost of those dentures. Our Fresno Dentist will perform an examination of your mouth as well as a general health assessment. They will ask if you’re under a Physician’s care or if you have any health conditions or allergies that may affect the denture process. Your information will not be shared with anyone and is taken in the strictest confidence. After the examination, our Dentist will give you a detailed overview of the results you can expect from new dentures, including an approximate cost.
2. What is the average cost of dentures?
   Denture fees vary widely based on many factors including the complexity of your particular treatment and the time required to accomplish the treatment. The best way to determine the fees is to contact our Fresno Dental Office so we can discuss the payment and care you may need.
3. What different types of dentures are available? There are four main types of dentures to consider.
   Complete Dentures: When most people think of dentures, they tend to picture complete dentures, which are full replacements for all of your teeth. This can be a full set of either upper or lower teeth, or a combined set for your entire mouth.
   Complete dentures have to be properly fitted for optimum comfort and can last 5 to 10 years given proper care. These can typically be made six months after tooth extraction, once your gums have had time to heal.
   Immediate Dentures: Immediate dentures are put into place immediately after tooth extraction and are used as a temporary set while your bone and tissue stabilize following tooth extraction. There are a number of benefits to immediate dentures, although they may require frequent adjustments while your jaw heals into place.
   Overdentures: Overdentures are similar to complete dentures. The difference is that not all teeth are extracted and one or more natural teeth are used for support. This type of denture provides greater stabilization during chewing. Overdentures can be more costly than complete dentures and usually require more appointments to get them properly fitted in place.
   Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are designed to correct the gaps in your smile when only some of your teeth are missing. Metal attachments anchor the dentures to your natural teeth. Partial dentures maintain tooth alignment by preventing your remaining teeth from shifting. Partial dentures can also help you prevent further tooth loss due to decay or gum disease.
4. When will I receive my dentures?
   The length of time it takes to receive a completed set of dentures depends on your individual condition. Our Dentist will give you an estimate based on your individual situation.Our Dentist needs time to ensure the new set is properly crafted and fitted, but they also understand your desire to have them fast, and they will do their best to balance these two factors.
5. Do I have to wear denture adhesives?
   Dentures are custom-designed for a comfortable and good fit for you. As a result, they often don’t require the regular use of an adhesive. Poor-fitting dentures must be checked by your dentist as soon as possible to eliminate discomfort and the potential for irritation.
6. Will the dentures fit properly?
   Our Dentist will skillfully assess your personal physical characteristics to create a pair of customized dentures that will support and protect your delicate gums; allow you to speak, chew and use your mouth naturally; blend in with existing teeth; and compliment your natural facial structure and characteristics. The base materials, tooth materials, and colors of teeth are all chosen based on the shape of your face, your natural complexion, and the presence of existing teeth, and are completely unique to you.Our Dentist is a highly skilled craftsman, and you can be sure your new dentures not only fit well, but look natural, complimenting your existing facial features.
   Well crafted dentures are designed to feel as natural as possible in your mouth, however there may be a brief adjustment period. Most patients find that after a week of continuous wear, the oral cavity has adjusted to the new teeth perfectly, although it can take a bit longer for others. Be patient and continue to wear your dentures. They will feel as if you’ve been wearing them forever in no time.
7. When can I wear my dentures?
   This is personal preference, however we recommend that you wear your dentures as much as possible. It is widely agreed upon that you should sleep without your dentures, however if you choose to sleep with them it is important to keep your denture extremely clean. Remove them at least once a day and brush the tissues underlying the dentures with a soft tooth brush. This removes any plaque build up along with any food debris; it also stimulates the blood vessels which is an essential part of healthy tissue.
8. Will dentures affect the way I eat?
   Like anything new, you need time to adapt to your new denture. Chewing is one of the skills that needs to be adapted when you receive either replacement dentures or you are first dentures. You can help yourself accommodate by taking smaller portions and chewing slowly and avoiding sticky or tough foods for a little while. You should soon see an improvement due to the new dentures being more efficient as the chewing surfaces have less wear.
9. How do I care for my dentures?
   Whitening: It is not possible to whiten dentures like natural teeth because dentures are made of plastic. To minimize staining, properly clean your dentures daily to remove food and plaque bacteria. Brushing with a denture brush or soft toothbrush will prevent dentures from becoming permanently stained and keep your mouth healthy. Moisten the brush and apply a non-abrasive soap or denture paste (regular toothpaste is too abrasive). Brush every surface, inside and out, scrubbing gently. A variety of over-the-counter denture cleanser products may be safely used (by following the manufacturer’s instructions) to remove most stains. Do not use bleach on your dentures unless our dentist in Fresno, CA or prosthodontist gives you special instructions on using bleach. Dilute household bleach can be used to clean and disinfect your dentures, but don’t use bleach until you see your prosthodontist for instructions. More stubborn stains may require removal by your prosthodontist.
   Brushing: Do not brush your dentures with normal toothpaste. Toothpaste are designed to be used on teeth, and they often contain materials and chemicals that help whiten and strengthen teeth but may harm dentures, which are made of a very durable plastic. Even though the plastic is strong, it is not as strong as the enamel of teeth and may be scratched by using toothpaste to clean your dentures. You should use a dishwashing liquid and a special denture brush to clean your dentures by hand every day. After rinsing them thoroughly, soak your dentures in water-based cleaning solution overnight.
   Moreover, it is advisable to rinse your dentures and your mouth after every meal however at least once a day the dentures should be brushed to remove any plaque accumulation and food debris, and then use a denture soak. It is also advisable to brush your gums to remove any debris including any residual dental adhesive.
   Repairing broken dentures: The best solution is to return to the prosthodontist who made your dentures and have the cracked denture repaired professionally. It may seem easy to fix, but it is important that the repair is done correctly to prevent problems with chewing and to avoid any sore spots. The prosthodontist also needs to check the denture and adjust it after it is repaired. The denture may be too old and may no longer fit closely to your gums, and you may need a new denture.
10. What kind of denture cleaner should I use?
    There are many brands of denture cleaners on the market and what brand to use is usually down to personal preference. However, it should be noted that household bleach and everyday toothpaste can harm the denture. If you notice a lot a tartar or plaque buildup you may also use white vinegar to soak your dentures and then brush off any residual build up. Remember that you can have your denture professionally cleaned by a Dentist in a matter of minutes.
11. How often should I visit my Denturist after getting my dentures?
    You should have a check-up with your Dentist once a year for optimal performance of your dentures. During this annual visit, you Dentist can spot any issues or abnormalities that need to be taken care of, and they can recommend you to a specialist should you require further medical attention.