Dentures in Solomons MD are worn for a variety of reasons such as accidents, tooth loss due to gum disease, a lack of treatment, or aging. Regardless the reason, there are important decisions and choices to be made by those considering dentures. Dentures are artificial replacements for one’s natural teeth that serve to restore dental function.
Complete Dentures
Complete or full dentures are made as either immediate or conventional. Immediate dentures are meant to be temporary and are constructed before the natural teeth are extracted. They are placed in the patient’s mouth immediately upon removal of the natural teeth so the patient does not have to go without teeth. Because the denture wearer’s bones and gums typically shrink while healing, several visits to the dentist for adjustments must be made while waiting for the conventional dentures to be ready. Conventional dentures typically replace the immediate dentures two to three months after the gums have healed.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used when the patient retains some of their natural teeth. Most are removable and consist of artificial teeth set within a pink base held together with a metal framework. A common form of a partial denture is known as a bridge, which can be removable or fixed.
Denture Making Process
Patients requiring Dentures in Solomons MD are typically seen by a dental specialist known as a prosthodontist. The process for fitting dentures entails several office visits over a three- to six-week period. Generally, a number of jaw impressions will be made and a plastic or wax model produced. Once the final product is ready, a perfect match is achieved after a few minor adjustments.
Securing Dentures
The choices for securing dentures include adhesives, metal clasps, or implants. Adhesives, in the form of a paste or powder, are the most popular. The adhesive is applied to the part of the denture that meets the gum and pressed firmly into place. Metal clasps are used in the case of partial dentures. The metal curves around the natural teeth and is hidden behind the teeth. Implants involve securing the dentures to metal posts implanted in the jawbone and provide the most secure fit.
Contact us if you are considering dentures or in need of new dentures. Modern dentures are vastly different from your grandmother’s false teeth. With properly manufactured and fitted dentures, no one will be able to tell the difference.
