At Bethesda Family Smiles, we are here to help you through all stages of your dental health journey. As your smile ages, it is likely that you will experience tooth loss at some point in time. If you have lost most or all of your teeth, we can help you restore your smile using custom-made dentures and partials. Dentures and partials replace a full arch of teeth using a removable device that adheres to your soft tissues while in use. Learn more about dentures and partials from Dr. Khanna below.
Getting Dentures and Partials in Bethesda, MD
Dentures are one of the most popular tooth restorations because they replace a whole arch of missing teeth at once. You don’t have to worry about more of your teeth being lost in the future. They’re all taken care of with the dentures. There are a few different options that you have if you want to get dentures. Our office provides both traditional removable dentures and fixed implant dentures.
Traditional Dentures
Traditional dentures are probably what you think of when you hear the word dentures. Prosthetic teeth attached to a metal and resin base stay on the gums with suction. Usually, you need some sort of adhesive to ensure that they stay in the mouth properly. You have to remove them at the end of each day so that your gums can have a rest overnight. You’ll also need to clean them each evening with special tools and cleaners to ensure they stay bacteria-free.
Traditional dentures are one of the more cost-effective tooth replacement options. The treatment process with them is quick and easy as well. We can get you a full set of dentures within a few weeks, as opposed to months when you’re getting implant-supported restorations.
However, there are some downsides to traditional dentures. You can’t wear them all the time. They need to be taken out overnight so that the soft tissues of your gums can get a rest. Gum tissue gets irritated by the denture material rubbing against it. If you don’t give your gums a rest, you can end up with sores on the gums where they’ve been rubbing.
Removable dentures also don’t give you back your full bite function. You’ll have to eliminate foods from your diet because you won’t be able to bite or chew them with your dentures. The dentures are also at risk of sliding around in your mouth or falling out when you’re talking or speaking in public.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Fixed dentures stay in your mouth all the time, so you don’t have to worry about taking them out. Instead of using suction to stay in, the denture is attached to as few as four dental implants. They don’t require any adhesives or extra maintenance for them to be taken care of properly. You just need to brush and floss them like your normal teeth and visit the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings every six months.
Implant-supported dentures take a longer time than traditional dentures for you to have a finished restoration. Placing implant posts is a surgical procedure because we implant them to fuse with the jawbone. This requires healing time before we can finish your restoration. It takes around 3-6 months for the posts to fully fuse with the jawbone and be stable enough to support your final restoration.
However, fixed dentures come with a wealth of benefits compared to removable ones. You get back almost 100% of your bite function, so you don’t have to worry about eliminating anything from your diet. You also don’t have the risk of your restoration slipping or moving when you’re talking or eating out in public. They allow you to be confident in your smile when you’re out and about.
Dental implants carry benefits that other tooth restorations don’t. They’re the only restoration that helps to spur jawbone regeneration. With traditional dentures, you’ll need to reline or replace them at least once in your lifetime. The jawbone continues to deteriorate because they don’t have stimulation. Dental implants provide that stimulation and prevent the jawbone from deteriorating any further.
Dentures and Partials FAQS
Dr. Khanna has helped many patients restore their smiles after tooth loss. Tooth loss not only affects your confidence but also your ability to chew and speak effectively. When you need a set of dentures and partials to restore a full arch of missing teeth, we hope you will visit our practice. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions regarding dentures & partials:
What are dentures and partials?
Dentures and partials are custom-made appliances that can replace a full arch of missing teeth and help restore your smile. They are designed specifically for you, using impressions of your soft tissues to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
Should I wear my dentures at night?
While you can wear your dentures at night if you want to, we suggest removing them and allowing your soft tissues to breathe while you sleep. This can reduce the risk of any tissue inflammation or discomfort caused by constantly wearing dentures.
How should I care for my dentures?
You should care for your dentures using denture-specific products only. Regular toothbrushes and toothpaste will be too tough on your restorations and can potentially cause damage. When you remove your dentures, make sure to keep them in a denture solution to avoid them becoming dry and out of shape due to lack of moisture. If you are rinsing your dentures underwater, ensure the water isn’t too hot to prevent the material from warping.
How long will it take to get dentures?
The process of getting dentures takes a few weeks. You will first get impressions of your mouth. Then, we will create a model that a dental lab will use to fabricate your dentures. In most cases, it takes about two weeks for the lab to make your dentures and ship them to our dental office. At your last visit, we fit and adjust your denture to ensure a comfortable fit.
Will dentures feel comfortable?
You should expect your new dentures to feel strange at first. However, your mouth will eventually adjust. It is also normal for you to need a few adjustments over time to get the perfect fit. The more you practice eating and speaking with them in your mouth, the easier it will get. Over time, dentures should feel comfortable and function well.
Can I eat normally with dentures?
With removable dentures, you will need to avoid certain kinds of food. However, you will be able to eat most foods. We ask that you avoid tough foods or anything sticky. These types of foods can damage your new prosthesis. When you get them, start eating soft foods first and gradually work up to a regular diet. Chew slowly and evenly to keep your dentures stable.
How do I care for my dentures?
Taking good care of your prosthesis will extend the life of your dentures. You will need to clean them every day with a denture brush and cleaner. Soak them overnight in a denture solution. Avoid using hot water, which can warp them.
What if my dentures break?
If your dentures break, contact us right away. Never try to fix the denture on your own, and never wear it broken. We will perform a professional repair to ensure they fit correctly and function properly.
Will dentures alter my appearance?
Dentures can improve your appearance by holding the shape of your face and giving you a natural smile. They support your facial muscles and help you look your best. Getting dentures involves many steps, but with maintenance and regular dental visits, you can enjoy your new smile. If you have more questions, your dentist can provide personalized advice and support.
What are other tooth replacement options?
Dental bridges and dental implants are other tooth replacement options. If you are unsure which tooth replacement option will best meet your needs, feel free to schedule a restorative dentistry consultation with Dr. Khanna. She will advise you on your dental health needs and which option will be best suited for your smile.