Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and restore your smile's functionality and appearance. They are custom-made to fit comfortably in your mouth and match the look of your natural teeth. Dentures can help you chew food, speak clearly, and maintain the structure of your face, preventing the sunken appearance that often accompanies tooth loss.
Types of Dentures
There are several types of dentures available, each tailored to meet different needs:
Complete Dentures
- Full Dentures
Full dentures replace all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They consist of a flesh-colored acrylic base that fits over your gums, with the upper denture covering the roof of your mouth and the lower denture shaped like a horseshoe to accommodate your tongue.
- Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures are placed immediately after the removal of the remaining teeth. They are often used as a temporary solution while waiting for the gums to heal before fitting for permanent dentures.
Partial Dentures
- Conventional Partial Dentures
These consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base, which is connected by metal framework that holds the denture in place. Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain and act as anchors for the denture.
- Flexible Partial Dentures
Made from a flexible plastic material, these dentures are more comfortable and less bulky than traditional partial dentures. They blend in with the natural color of your gums and fit snugly against your remaining teeth.
Implant-Supported Dentures
These dentures are anchored to dental implants, which are surgically placed into the jawbone. Implant-supported dentures offer a more stable and secure fit, reducing the risk of slipping and providing better chewing efficiency. Call us to learn more.
Benefits of Dentures in Tarzana, CA
Dentures offer numerous benefits, both functional and aesthetic:
Restored Functionality
Dentures enable you to chew food properly, improving your digestion and overall health. They also help you speak more clearly by providing the necessary support for your lips and cheeks.
Enhanced Appearance
Dentures fill in gaps left by missing teeth, giving you a fuller, more youthful smile. They also support the facial muscles, preventing the sagging and hollow appearance that can occur with tooth loss.
Improved Confidence
With a complete and attractive smile, dentures can boost your self-esteem and confidence in social and professional interactions.
Custom Fit
Modern dentures are custom-designed to fit your mouth comfortably and securely. Advances in dental technology allow for more natural-looking and comfortable dentures than ever before.
The Process of Getting Dentures in Tarzana, CA
Getting dentures involves several steps to ensure a proper fit and optimal comfort:
Initial Consultation
During your first visit, our dentist in Tarzana will assess your oral health, discuss your needs and preferences, and determine the best type of denture for you. This may involve taking X-rays or making impressions of your mouth.
Extraction (if necessary)
If you have any remaining teeth that need to be removed, our dentist will perform the extractions. Immediate dentures may be placed at this time, or you may need to wait for your gums to heal before being fitted for conventional dentures.
Impressions and Measurements
Our dentist will take precise measurements and impressions of your mouth to create a model for your custom dentures. This ensures that the dentures will fit comfortably and look natural.
Try-In and Adjustments
A wax model of your dentures will be created for you to try in your mouth. This allows our dentist to make any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit and appearance before the final dentures are made.
Fitting the Dentures
Once the final dentures are ready, our dentist will fit them in your mouth and make any final adjustments. You will receive instructions on how to care for and maintain your dentures.
Follow-Up Visits
Follow-up appointments are essential to check the fit of your dentures and make any necessary adjustments. Regular dental check-ups are important to ensure the continued health of your gums and remaining teeth.
Caring for Your Dentures in Tarzana, CA
Proper care and maintenance of your dentures are crucial for their longevity and your oral health:
Cleaning
- Rinse your dentures after eating to remove food particles and debris. Brush your dentures daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner to prevent plaque buildup and staining.
- Soak your dentures overnight in a denture-cleaning solution to keep them moist and free from bacteria. Do not use hot water, as it can warp the dentures.
Handling
- Handle your dentures carefully to avoid dropping and damaging them. When cleaning your dentures, place a towel or a basin of water underneath to cushion any falls.
Oral Hygiene
- Continue to brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. This helps prevent gum disease and keeps your mouth healthy.
Regular Check-Ups
- Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor the fit and condition of your dentures. Your dentist can make any necessary adjustments and ensure your oral health is maintained.
Conclusion
Dentures are a valuable solution for individuals who have lost some or all of their teeth, offering restored functionality, enhanced appearance, and improved confidence. At All Smiles Family Dentistry in Tarzana, CA, we are committed to providing high-quality denture solutions tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether you require complete dentures, partial dentures, or implant-supported dentures, our experienced team will guide you through the process and ensure you achieve a comfortable, natural-looking smile.
Proper care and maintenance, regular dental check-ups, and following your dentist's instructions are essential for maximizing the benefits of your dentures. With the right approach, dentures can provide a lifetime of improved oral health and quality of life. Contact All Smiles Family Dentistry today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, more confident smile.
Transform your smile today with expert care at All Smiles Family Dentistry in Tarzana, CA. Schedule your appointment now by calling 818-343-2244 or visit us at 18456 Clark St, Tarzana, CA 91356.