6044 Lute Road
Portage, Indiana
219-764-4004
Dentures and Partials
Dentures become essential when someone has lost their teeth or plans to have the remaining ones removed. In the face of tooth loss, the desire is for something comfortable, functional, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing – something that restores confidence in your smile.
Whether it is from aging, tooth decay or an accident, some people find themselves missing multiple teeth or an entire row of teeth. Dentures can provide natural-looking artificial teeth to replace the natural ones that are no longer functional or present in the mouth.
People who suffer from missing teeth and have trouble eating and speaking normally may find that dentures are an ideal solution.
Missing teeth can cause the remaining teeth to shift, causing problems with eating, speaking, and other functions. A partial denture can be constructed to fill in the gaps so that the neighboring teeth have the support they need.
Dentures
Crafting dentures is a collaborative effort between the patient and the dentist. Through consultations, we work closely with the patient to determine the ideal smile design. In this process, we customize your denture, considering factors like:
- Teeth size
- Teeth color
- Teeth position
- Gum color
These options are fully customizable and come included in the cost of your affordable dentures. Rest assured, your new dentures will not only be functional but will also present a natural and flawless appearance, giving you the confidence to smile again.
Partial Dentures
When dealing with a few missing teeth, partial dentures offer a practical solution for replacement. Unlike a complete set of dentures, these are anchored by a base, matching the color of your gums. A metal framework is typically crafted to secure the base, preventing any risk of it coming loose. If you still have natural teeth in place, a full set of dentures is not an option, making partial dentures a necessary alternative.
We serve patients in the Portage, Indiana area who are considering whether a partial set is a better option than a cosmetic procedure. It's important to understand that these options have different functions - dentures are removable, while cosmetic dentistry solutions are usually permanent.
How to take care of Dentures and Partial Dentures
Properly caring for your removable partial or full dentures is crucial to maintain their appearance and prevent stains. Here are some essential tips for denture care:
- Post-Meal Rinse:
- Remove and rinse your dentures after eating. Run water over them to get rid of food debris. Be cautious not to drop them—place a towel in the sink just in case.
- Handle with Care:
- Handle your dentures carefully to avoid bending or damaging the plastic and clasps during cleaning.
- Mouth Cleaning:
- After removing dentures, clean your mouth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush on natural teeth and a soft toothbrush or gauze for your tongue, cheeks, and palate. Remove any remaining denture adhesive from your gums if used.
- Daily Brushing:
- Brush your dentures at least once a day. Gently clean them with a soft-bristled brush and a nonabrasive denture cleanser to remove food, plaque, and deposits. Clean the grooves against your gums if you use adhesive. Don't use denture cleansers in your mouth.
- Overnight Soak:
- Soak your dentures overnight to maintain their shape. Use water or a mild denture-soaking solution.
- Rinse Thoroughly:
- Rinse dentures thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth, especially after using a denture-soaking solution to avoid harmful chemical ingestion.
- Regular Checkups:
- Schedule regular dental checkups for professional examination and cleaning. We will ensure a proper fit, preventing discomfort and slippage, and check the overall health of your mouth.
Things to Avoid when Caring for Dentures:
- Abrasive Materials: Avoid using stiff-bristled brushes, strong cleansers, and harsh toothpaste, as they have the potential to damage your dentures.
- Whitening Toothpaste: Whitening toothpastes typically contain peroxide, but they won't alter the color of denture teeth.
- Bleach-Containing Products: It is advisable to steer clear of products that contain bleach, as they have the potential to weaken dentures and cause changes in their color.
By following these straightforward steps and avoiding any potential pitfalls, you'll be able to keep your dentures in excellent condition and maintain a great smile.
