For patients missing a full arch or all of their teeth, partial dentures and dentures have been the traditional treatment for the restoration of function and aesthetics. Partial dentures and dentures are restorative dentistry treatments Dr. Richard Sousa offers to Roslyn Heights, NY residents. Dr. Sousa places cosmetic dentures and partials to restore your smile using high-quality materials and a comprehensive treatment planning approach. This is to ensure that your new smile will feel as good as it looks and lasts a lifetime.
Types of Dentures
There are two basic types of dentures:
- Removable dentures: Custom dentures that can be taken out daily and placed using an adhesive product. These require daily cleaning and often become uncomfortable as the gums and jawline change and the fit deteriorates. We offer both partial dentures and complete dentures. A partial denture replaces some missing teeth and uses clamps that clip onto your remaining natural teeth. A complete denture replaces all teeth in the lower or upper jaw. It will cover the your entire gum area and provides a full set of artificial teeth.
- Fixed dentures: also known as implant dentures, a fixed denture provides the most natural result with oral health benefits. An implant denture is a dental restoration that attaches false teeth to metal posts surgically placed in your jawbone. Unlike regular dentures that sit on your gums, implant dentures snap onto these posts, making them more stable and comfortable to wear.
Dr. Sousa will recommend the placement of implant-secured dentures for patients who are candidates due to the high level of satisfaction among current patients and the dental health benefits they afford.
Benefits of Implant Secured Dentures:
- Improved bite function
- No slippage
- Prevents bone retention
- Prevents facial sagging due to missing teeth
- Increased gum health
- Helps prevent gum recession
What to Expect: Dentures
Replacing missing teeth with a denture or partial denture begins with a consultation. Dr. Sousa will evaluate all aspects of your dental health and appearance to determine the most suitable option for restoring function. He will discuss your unique concerns and aesthetic goals before making his recommendations so that the end result meets your needs and expectations.
At East Hills Dental we apply the same smile design principles to dentures that we use for all of our cosmetic dentistry patients. This is possible with our in-house laboratory facility and Dr. Sousa’s experience in both the dental and laboratory aspects of denture fabrication. Your new cosmetic dentures will be custom-designed to fit your perfect smile.
“I believe that when we design dentures we can create beautiful smiles that not only look totally natural but by correcting the vertical and supporting your facial structures we can rejuvenate your entire look.” Dr. Sousa
The first step in this multi-step process is to take dental impressions for creating a wax mock-up for you to preview. Dr. Sousa will utilize digital photography to enhance the treatment planning process and offer patients a view of their future smiles. The goal is to place a final dental restoration that complements your natural aesthetics, supports long-term dental health, and gives you back your quality of life.
About Dentures Implants
There are several ways to secure a cosmetic denture with implants, depending on the condition of your dental health and jaw bone. Dr. Sousa will strategically place the appropriate number of posts for securing your denture after careful treatment planning. A period of several months is necessary between the surgical procedure and the placement of the final restoration.
This allows for the process of osseointegration to occur and the soft tissues to heal. A temporary denture is typically placed so you can get used to the fit and feel of your new smile.
A new set of impressions will be taken before the fabrication of your final denture. This is to allow for changes that may have occurred in the shape of the gums during the healing phase and while the temporary was in place. Once ready, your new smile will be permanently secured to the implants for a stable, natural-looking result.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures
Dr. Sousa wants his patients to fully understand what to expect with dentures. Here, we have answers for the most common questions patients ask. We want you to feel confident and informed about your dental choices at East Hills Dental Associates.
My bottom denture seems loose. Is this normal?
The bottom denture will seem loose compared to the top denture. While there can be genuine issues, most of the time it’s simply due to the anatomy of the lower jaw. We recommend you take advantage of denture adhesive. If you think there may be an issue with the fit, please schedule an appointment to have them looked at.
Will I be able to eat and talk normally with dentures?
Wearing dentures for the first time will take some getting used to. Your dentist will suggest giving them time and having patience while you get acclimated to them. Your lips, teeth, and tongue will eventually adjust. You will want to start off with soft foods until then. Also, practicing speaking aloud will help you learn how to talk while wearing dentures.
What should I do if my dentures break?
While dentures are made from strong materials, they are not indestructible. Please, call us right away to schedule an appointment where we will try to fix them. Do NOT try to repair them yourself. Glues may contain chemicals that can cause harm to your body. If your denture is unable to be repaired, then we will immanently begin the steps to replace them.
How do I care for my dentures?
Clean your dentures daily by brushing them gently with a soft-bristled brush and warm water. Never use regular toothpaste. Rinse them after meals and soak them overnight in water or a special denture solution. Handle them carefully over a towel to prevent breaking if dropped. Remove your dentures at night to let your gums rest. Brush your mouth and gums before putting dentures back in. Attend regular dental checkups to ensure your dentures are in good shape.
Will I need teeth extracted before getting dentures?
You require an extraction if your teeth are in bad shape. Every patient is different. If you have severe tooth loss or most of your teeth are badly damaged, Dr. Sousa may suggest removing the remaining teeth. For complete dentures, we will remove any remaining teeth. However, if you only need partial dentures, we can place them while keeping some healthy, natural teeth.
How long will it take me to heal from getting denture implants?
Healing from denture implants takes time, longer than traditional dentures. The first 1-2 weeks after surgery, you’ll feel sore and might have swelling. Most people can return to normal activities after about 2 weeks. However, complete healing takes longer. Your jawbone needs 3-6 months to grow around the implants and make them strong. This process can sometimes take up to 8 months. Healing periods are different for each patient.