Dentures in Whitehouse, OH

Dentures are a time-tested solution for missing teeth, with historical roots that trace back to ancient times. Over the centuries, civilizations have tried various materials to replace teeth that fell out or needed to be extracted. Ivory, bone, wood and even teeth borrowed from others were used to fill gaps and create the semblance of a natural smile.

Although dentures are a very old concept, technological improvements have been dramatic in recent years. Today’s dentures are stronger, more comfortable and more natural-looking than ever before. And the process involved is simpler as well. Dr. Huntzinger can create for you a state-of-the-art set of dentures that will replace a few teeth, many teeth or a full set.

Benefits and Options

There are many compelling reasons to choose dentures, bridges or implants to replace missing teeth. Dentures prevent remaining teeth from drifting, changing your bite and creating problems in your mouth. The longer you wait to address the missing teeth, the greater the degree of misalignment you may experience, which in turn will make a secure fit for dentures harder to achieve. Dentures will also restore your ability to eat a variety of foods, to speak with confidence and to begin to smile once again.

Patients enjoy several options. If you have lost all of your teeth, the natural choice is a set of complete dentures, which use adhesive for a secure bond with the gums. A bridge or partial dentures may be appropriate if you retain many of your teeth. Both of these options are anchored to existing teeth to allow greater stability than complete dentures. These appliances can also be tethered to dental implants, which are artificial teeth affixed to the top of titanium roots that are deeply implanted into the jaw. Implants are an especially good choice to secure appliances in the lower mouth. Upper dentures benefit from the stability provided by the roof of the mouth, while lower dentures must include a large gap for the tongue.

Implants have the added advantage of providing essential stimulation to the bone of your jaw. Natural roots provide this stimulation when the tooth is intact; when it is lost, the loss of the root gradually leads to loss of integrity in the jaw bone. As the bone loses volume, your facial profile can also dramatically change.

Fit and Feel

Design and fitting are the key elements of creating a state-of-the-art set of dentures. The process requires several office visits, and begins with measurements of your mouth and bite, along with impressions your dentist will take of existing teeth. These allow your dentist to design a three-dimensional model and a set of trial dentures you can use to test the feel and fit of this custom appliance.

Once your permanent dentures have been fabricated, the emphasis will be on maximizing the stability and comfort of your new pair. After your dentures have been fine-tuned to your satisfaction, you will experience several weeks of adjustment, as your mouth, joints and tongue learn how to move in concert with your new set of teeth. Broad smiles are an immediate benefit, however, requiring no adjustment period at all.

Partial Dentures

Whereas traditional dentures are designed to replace an entire row or both rows of teeth, partial dentures are a good option if you still have some healthy teeth that can remain in your mouth. Partial dentures are custom designed to fit around your natural teeth, while also matching them in size, shape, and color to create a seamless smile. They are removable and function like ordinary dentures in almost all respects.

Taking Care of Your Dentures

Most modern dentures last several years, though it is possible to extend the lifespan to over a decade with great care. Each day, you should brush and rinse your dentures with a denture cleaner or gentle soap to keep them looking and smelling fresh. Toothpaste is too abrasive and can gradually erode the resin on the dentures. 

Anytime your dentures are not in your mouth (such as overnight), they should be soaking in cool or lukewarm water so that they can hold their intended shape. Dentures that are dry or placed in hot water are prone to warping.

Alternatives to Dentures

Dentures are a popular option for full mouth reconstruction. Procedures like dental bridges and dental implants are also highly effective ways to replace missing teeth, but these treatments are often prohibitively costly when an entire row (or rows) of teeth need replacement. Your dentist will discuss all your options so that you can make a fully informed decision about your healthcare and how you can best restore a fully functional and attractive smile. 

To learn more about dentures, or to schedule an appointment, contact Dental Health Associates of Whitehouse today.