Cosmetic Dentistry Buyer's Guide

Understanding Dentures

What Are Dentures?

Dentures, available at Cascade Dental, are prosthetic teeth that can be removed from the mouth that are intended to take the position of teeth that have been lost and to restore oral function and aesthetics. They come in two main types: complete dentures, which replace all teeth in an arch, and partial dentures, which are used to replace only some of the teeth that have been lost. 

Custom-crafted to fit comfortably and securely, dentures are typically made from acrylic, metal, or a combination of materials. Cascade Dental’s experienced team ensures a precise fit and natural appearance, allowing patients to speak, chew, and smile with confidence. 

Dentures are a reliable and cost-effective solution for those seeking to regain their smile and improve their quality of life.

Why You Need Dentures

Dentures offer several advantages, making them a preferred choice for individuals with missing teeth or those seeking an alternative to dental implants or fixed bridges. Some reasons to consider dentures include:

• Affordability: Dentures are often more cost-effective than other tooth replacement options.
• Versatility: Dentures can replace multiple teeth or even an entire arch, accommodating varying degrees of tooth loss.
• Restored Function: Dentures enable you to chew food, speak clearly, and maintain facial aesthetics.
• Improved Appearance: Dentures can enhance your smile by filling gaps and restoring your natural facial contours.
• Minimized Bone Loss: Dentures help maintain jawbone integrity by providing support to the facial muscles and preventing further bone resorption.

Types of Dentures

Dentures come in various types, each designed to meet specific needs and preferences:

Complete Dentures

Advantages:

• Suitable for individuals with total tooth loss in either the upper or lower jaw.
• Restore the entire arch of missing teeth and gum tissue.
• Enhance facial aesthetics and support facial muscles.

Considerations:

• May require an adjustment period for speech and eating.
• Regular maintenance and relining may be necessary over time.

Partial Dentures

Advantages:

• Ideal for individuals with some natural teeth remaining.
• Replace multiple missing teeth while preserving existing teeth.
• Restore chewing function and aesthetics.

Considerations:

• Require meticulous oral hygiene to prevent damage to remaining natural teeth.
• May need periodic adjustments for optimal fit.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Advantages:

• Provide superior stability and chewing efficiency.
• Prevent denture slippage or discomfort.
• Stimulate jawbone to minimize bone loss.

Considerations:

• Require dental implants for support, which may increase treatment cost.
• Implant placement involves a surgical procedure.

Choosing the Right Dentures: Factors to Consider 

Selecting the right dentures involves considering several essential factors:

• Candidacy Assessment: Consult with an experienced dentist who can assess your oral health, bone density, and overall suitability for dentures.
• Treatment Goals: Clearly communicate your expectations and desired outcomes with your dentist to ensure the dentures align with your vision for your smile.
• Denture Type: Depending on your specific case, your dentist will make a recommendation regarding the type of dentures that will work best for you.
• Material: Dentures can be made from various materials, including acrylic, porcelain, and composite resin. Discuss the pros and cons of each with your dentist.
• Cost and Budget: Understand the cost of the entire denture procedure, including any potential additional treatments like extractions or implant placement, and explore financing options.
• Experience and Expertise: Choose an experienced dentist who specializes in dentures and has a proven track record of successful denture placements.
• Follow-Up Care: Ensure that your denture provider offers comprehensive follow-up care and maintenance to monitor the fit and condition of your dentures.

The Denture Procedure

The process of getting dentures typically involves the following stages:

1. Initial Consultation: Your dental health will be evaluated by your dentist, take impressions of your mouth, and discuss your treatment plan.
2. Tooth Extractions (If Needed): If you have remaining natural teeth that need extraction, this step is performed before denture fabrication.
3. Impressions: Impressions of your mouth are taken to create custom-made dentures that fit comfortably and securely.
4. Try-In: You will have a chance to try in a wax model of your dentures to ensure proper fit and aesthetics.
5. Final Denture Placement: Once adjustments are made, your final dentures are fabricated and placed in your mouth.
6. Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups and adjustments are essential to ensure that your dentures are comfortable and performing properly and ensure your comfort.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Proper aftercare and maintenance are vital for the longevity and functionality of your dentures:

• Oral Hygiene: Clean your dentures daily using a denture brush and cleaning solution to prevent plaque buildup, staining, and odors.
• Dietary Choices: Avoid extremely hard or sticky foods that could potentially damage the dentures.
• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Attend regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of your dentures and address any issues or discomfort.
• Denture Adhesives: Use denture adhesives if recommended by your dentist to enhance denture stability and comfort.

Cascade Dental and Dentures

At Cascade Dental, we are dedicated to providing dentures of the highest possible quality that 

are adapted to your individual requirements and tastes. The highly trained dentists and dental technicians that we employ, along with the cutting-edge technology and materials that we provide, allow us to provide our patients with the very best results.

We recognize that the choice to have dentures is a big one, and because of this, we are committed to assisting you through each stage of the procedure. Get in touch with us right now to set up an appointment for a consultation and take the next step toward recovering the functionality, attractiveness, and overall quality of life associated with your smile.