If you have your upper and lower teeth missing, you need dentures. Dentures and partial dentures are removable appliances that can replace missing arches or missing sections of teeth. We custom-make and fit dentures properly to restore the look and feel of your smile. Dentures are a restorative dentistry treatment that improves eating and speaking function. We recommend dentures for patients who visit our Arlington, TX, office who want to restore multiple missing teeth.
Dentures and Partials in Arlington, TX
Partial dentures are dentures that replace rows of missing teeth. These dentures are similar to bridges but can replace multiple rows of missing teeth in different mouth areas. Complete dentures can replace all of your teeth. Also known as full dentures, complete dentures restore full tooth arches or rows of missing teeth.
Dentures are removable or fixed. Removable dentures typically lie on the gums and use adhesive to stay in place. However, implants can secure dentures so they function more like natural teeth. Both complete and partial dentures may use dental implants for support.
Implants are small titanium posts that act as artificial tooth roots. After a surgeon places these posts in the jaw and they heal, implants can fuse to the jaw bone. While the dental implant treatment takes time, it’s worth it for patients who want a more stable bite and longer-lasting restoration.
Benefits of Implants over Traditional Dentures
Dental implants offer many benefits if you need dentures. Implant-supported dentures are:
Stable
One of the most notable advantages is their superior stability and comfort. Implant-supported dentures are securely anchored to dental implants. This firm foundation prevents slipping dentures, to provide a level of comfort and stability that traditional dentures cannot match. As a result, you can speak and eat with confidence. You do not need to worry about your dentures slipping or falling out.
Strong
Another benefit of implant dentures is their durability and longevity. Implant-supported dentures can last a lifetime with the proper care. The implants themselves are designed to fuse with the jawbone. They will become a permanent part of your mouth.
Unlike removable dentures, implant-supported dentures do not need frequent adjustments and relining. This is common with traditional dentures as the jawbone changes shape over time. Because implants support the jaw, it will not change its shape.
Natural-Looking
Implant-supported dentures also offer a more natural appearance and improved oral health. Because implants are securely attached in the mouth, they help your dentures look and feel like natural teeth. You do not need bulky adhesive creams or pastes to keep your denture in place, which can be messy and uncomfortable.
In addition, implant-supported dentures help preserve the jawbone. Jaw bone loss is a common issue with traditional dentures. Implants support your facial structure and prevent facial sagging.
Treatment with Dentures in Arlington, TX
The first step in denture treatment is a thorough examination. If you have infected or damaged teeth, we may recommend root canal treatment or tooth extractions to prepare your mouth for dentures.
Once you are healthy, we will take impressions of your mouth to create a mold for the dentures. We send your dental impressions to a lab, where techniains create your custom denture from our precise measurements.
Once the dentures are made, you will return for a fitting appointment. At this visit, we will ensure your dentures are comfortable and properly aligned with the natural bite. We may make adjustments as necessary to achieve the perfect fit.
Implant-Supported Dentures
It takes more time to get implant dentures, but these restorations will last for years. Before we consider implants, we will ensure you are a good implant candidate. We will take digital X-rays to look for signs of jaw bone loss and determine where to place the implant posts.
If you do not have enough jaw bone to support the implants, we will recommend grafting treatment. Bone grafting will help build up enough healthy jaw bone tissue to support the implant posts. In addition, we may recommend other pretreatments to get you in good oral health. We provide tooth extractions, gum disease treatment, and root canal treatment if needed to ensure you are in good oral health.
Once you are ready for treatment, an oral surgeon will place the implant posts in the jaw bone. Over 3 to 6 months, your jaw bone will grow around the implant posts so they become stable. Then, we will place abutments or connector pieces that link the posts to your restoration.
We will take dental impressions and measurements to ensure your final dentures fit properly. A dental lab will create your final dentures according to your desired tooth shade. Finally, you will return to our office once your permanent dentures are complete.
Caring for Dentures
For removable dentures, begin by taking them out and rinsing them under warm water to remove food particles. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or denture brush to gently clean all surfaces, including gums and any metal parts. Avoid abrasive toothpaste that can damage your restoration. Use a mild hand soap or dentist-recommended denture cleaner.
You need to remove traditional dentures at night. You cannot sleep with these dentures in your mouth because it can increase the risk of infection or irritate your mouth’s soft tissues. With removable dentures, you should place your false teeth in a cup of water or denture cleaner to keep them moist.
If you have implant-supported dentures, you do not need to remove your false teeth. Instead, you can brush and floss your dentures, gums, and remaining natural teeth.
Brush gently with a soft-bristled brush. Pay attention to the attachments and around the implants. Use a non-abrasive cleaner to protect implant surfaces. While many patients can floss with regular floss, you may find it easier to use a water flosser or interdental brush around the implants.
How Much Are Dentures?
The cost of dentures depends on these factors:
- Number of missing teeth
- Number of dental implants
- Sedation
- Pretreatments
When you consider dentures, you should consider their longevity. While implant-supported dentures often cost more because of materials and surgery, they last longer. We will provide an estimate of your denture cost while we plan treatment.
Most insurance companies will cover a portion of restorative treatments. At Cooper Family Dental, we work with companies like Sunbit and CareCredit for payment plans. CareCredit offers a credit card to pay for dental treatments easily.
Restore Your Full Smile
Replace all your missing teeth with a high-quality restoration. Contact Cooper Family Dental for dentures in Arlington, TX, today at 817-646-1217. You may also schedule a dental appointment with us online.
Please let us know if you have questions about dentures or need to replace multiple missing teeth. We’re here to help you restore your smile.