Full Dentures and Partial Dentures

Dentures
Dentures are a trusted solution for replacing missing teeth. At Casa Dental of Santa Ana our patients frequently ask our Dentists about dentures to determine if they are a good solution for their particular needs. As with any dental solution, there are pros and cons to wearing dentures and whether or not they will work for you depends largely on your lifestyle and the goals that you have for your appearance and the functionality of your smile.

What are the types of dentures?
There are three main types of dentures: temporary, partial dentures, and complete dentures.

Temporary Dentures
We will often provide patients with temporary dentures while they are undergoing a cosmetic dentistry procedure to replace a missing tooth. Temporaries ensure that patients have a natural looking smile while waiting for dental implants or a dental bridge to be completed. This is an excellent solution for when a tooth is knocked out during a sports game or in an accident. The temporary denture is secured in place with a metal wire that works like a retainer and can be taken in and out whenever you like. If you are looking for an immediate solution for replacing a missing tooth call (714) 541-0837. Keep in mind that a temporary denture is only meant to be worn for a few months and will need to be replaced.

Partial Dentures
If only a few of your teeth are missing, partial dentures are a good solution for replacing them. Unlike a full set of dentures, these are held in place by a plastic base that is the same color as your gums. A metal framework is typically created in order to secure the base and prevent it from falling out. As long as you have natural teeth in place, you cannot wear a full set, so a partial set of dentures is necessary. We treat patients that want to know if a partial set is better than a cosmetic procedure. They function differently because dentures are removable and cosmetic dentistry solutions are typically permanent. If you live in the Santa Ana CA area, call for your consultation and we can provide you with a list of options to consider.

Complete Dentures and Repair

Complete Dentures
When all of your teeth are missing, complete dentures can replace them. This is the type of dentures that you typically see in cartoons and movies. Technology has improved in recent years, making them more comfortable and natural looking than ever. Dr. Babak Etemad can determine if this is the best way to replace your teeth or if an alternative solution would help you to achieve your goals. If you proceed with getting a complete set of dentures, your gums will be healed and ready in eight to 12 weeks after your teeth have been removed. When teeth are removed the bones and gums will start to shrink. By waiting for up to 12 weeks, you can be sure that your set of complete dentures will fit securely. Many patients prefer not to wait and get immediate dentures. This solution does not require a waiting period, but there will be adjustments later on after the gums and bone have settled into their permanent size.

How are dentures made?
In order for dentures to be created, patients need to schedule a dental appointment. At this time, the dentist will examine your gums and other teeth to determine if dentures are the best solution for you and if so, what type. A mold will then be taken of your teeth and gums so that the dentures can be created in a dental lab. Typically, several molds or impressions will be made so that the dentist can determine how your jaw functions and moves. Using these impressions, the lab will make a set of dentures that looks natural and fits perfectly. If necessary, adjustments will be made. Dr. Babak Etemad can discuss the process in more detail during a consultation.

Benefits of Dentures
Patients like how convenient dentures are. Whether you need a full or partial set, they can replace teeth in a non-invasive way. There is no surgical element to worry about, and temporary dentures can be fitted immediately. This provides a quick and easy solution. If, however, you are looking for something that feels more natural, you should consider a cosmetic dentistry procedure.

Negatives of Dentures
The biggest challenge with dentures is that they do not feel like natural teeth. Patients tend to agree that while they are functional, you still have to think about them where other cosmetic dentistry procedures make it easy to forget you ever lost a tooth in the first place. Modern techniques have made dentures more secure and comfortable than they used to be, but they are still a foreign object in your mouth and can become loose when eating or speaking. If you are currently experiencing this problem, call us at 714-541-0837 for a consultation.

Alternative Options
Patients have been enjoying the benefits of a dentures alternative. There is a procedure that combines implant dentistry with dentures. Those that need complete dentures can benefit by having a secure way to hold their dentures in place. If you live in the Santa Ana CA area, we will be happy to examine your gums and let you know if you are a good candidate for the procedure. In this scenario, an impression is taken of your mouth in order to create a denture that will be secured in place using implants. Once created, metal posts will be implanted under your gums, and the dentures secured to it. This way patients get the benefits of how quickly dentures can be created and the convenience of the stability that can only come from using implant technology.

How do I care for my dentures?
Every night you need to take your dentures out. We advise patients to rinse them thoroughly then use a denture brush to remove any food particles before rinsing them again. You also need to brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste. You can use an antiseptic mouthwash afterwards to kill any lingering bacteria and improve your breath. Your dentures should soak all night then be placed back in the mouth in the morning.

Helpful Related Links

• American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Terms. 2015
• American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2015
• WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2015

About our business, license, and website security

• • Casa Dental of Santa Ana was established in 2010
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  • We serve patients from the following counties: Orange County
  • We serve patients from the following cities: Santa Ana, Anaheim, Garden Grove, Westminster, Orange, Tustin, Costa Mesa & Irvine

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