DENTURES AND PARTIALS IN BENTON, AR

Patients typically endure trauma after tooth loss. This is because an incomplete smile affects oral health and one’s self-image. When tooth loss occurs – whether it’s the loss of some or all teeth – it is important to review your tooth replacement options. Full and partial dentures have long been the most affordable and effective way to replace missing teeth. Our dentist offers custom prosthetic teeth to help members of our community enjoy renewed appearance and oral function.

Dentures & Partials

THE EFFECTS OF TOOTH LOSS ON HEALTH:


Beyond the psychological effects of tooth loss, there are oral health ramifications to losing teeth. First, tooth loss will affect oral function. Teeth work as a system to disperse the force and pressure associated with chewing and biting food. When one tooth is missing, it affects the even disbursement of pressure and force. If multiple teeth are missing, remaining teeth are left with far more pressure and force than they should endure. All of this can lead to tooth wear (which will require restorations like crowns or inlays), and further tooth loss.


Another effect of tooth loss would be if any remaining teeth are left unsupported.The loss of one tooth normally produces a ripple effect. Since one’s ability to eat comfortably is affected, some patients may become malnourished because their diets are restricted.

AN AFFORDABLE SOLUTION TO TOOTH LOSS:

Dentures are an effective solution to tooth loss. These prosthetics address the loss of oral function along with the cosmetic issues associated with an incomplete smile. There are two types of dentures: full and partial. Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth in the upper or lower jaw,  while partial dentures only replace some missing teeth, not all.

Full and partial dentures are made specifically for each patient. Our dentist will take detailed pictures and molds of a patient’s mouth to develop the measurements and specifications for one’s new prosthetics. These specifications are then sent to technicians in a dental laboratory who will create the custom prosthetic teeth. Dentures are made from very lifelike materials (including porcelain and acrylic) to closely resemble the appearance of teeth and gums.

To learn more about your tooth replacement options, we invite you to call Scott Family Dentistry to reserve a consultation with our caring and experienced dental team.

Dentures and Partials FAQ

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about our dentures and partials. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • How do I care for my dentures or partials?

    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 your dentist 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. Toothpastes 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 dish washing 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.


    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.

  • Can I sleep in my dentures or partials?

    Yes, you can wear your dentures or partials at night but it is preferred that they be removed. You should remove your dentures at night and this will give your gums and bone a chance to relax from the pressure of the denture during the day. If you need to wear your dentures for social reasons or to prevent your jaws from over closing, you should find time during the day to properly clean your mouth and your prostheses. You should never wear your dentures 24 hours a day without preforming proper oral hygiene. Dentures should be cleaned at night and stored in water during the night.

  • Can I eat normally with dentures?

    Most patients need to learn how to use dentures properly and as a result, it takes a little time to get used to them. After a while, you should be able to eat fairly normally, but it may take more time to get comfortable with harder foods or sticky foods. Using a small amount of denture adhesive (no more than three or four pea-sized dabs on each denture) may help stabilize the dentures and help hold them in place while you learn how to get comfortable with them and may make the learning process easier.


    Chewing gum: Dentures and chewing gum do not usually work well together, no matter which brand of chewing gum you decide to try. The gum typically sticks to the acrylic plastic in the denture and may break a seal on the dentures, which will loosen them as a result. Gum may remain stuck to the denture and eventually harden and discolor. Ultimately, if you wear dentures, you should avoid chewing gum.

  • Is it possible to perfectly color match my partial denture to my remaining natural teeth?

    Prosthodontists and their teams are highly trained in the art of color and shade matching. Assuming it is a new partial denture, they can work to produce a match to your remaining natural teeth. If it is an existing partial denture, we would recommend having a new one made, as the expense would be about the same to recolor the old one.

CONTACT US TO GO OVER YOUR TOOTH REPLACEMENT OPTIONS INCLUDING DENTURES AND PARTIALS

Send Scott Family Dentistry a message with ease. We want to offer you the best solution for your dental problems. We accept many different insurances so don't hesitate to ask us if yours is accepted. DO NOT send personal health information through this form. Specific patient care must be addressed during your appointment. We promise to provide professional service and the best dental care available to the residents of Arkansas.

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