Dentures & Partials: An Overview
As a restorative dentist in Columbia, Maryland, one of our many specialties is creating customized dentures and partials for patients looking to restore a full arch of teeth. Dentures, or false teeth, are removable oral appliances that restore the smiles of patients who lost all their natural teeth due to age, gum disease, tooth decay, or injury. A good set of dentures benefits both your health and your appearance.
That’s why our Columbia Family Dentist team is here to provide you with a pair of dentures or partials. We want to help you achieve a radiant, healthy smile, even if your natural smile is no longer there. Our restorative dentistry services are here for you when you need them the most.
Dentures & Partials In Columbia, MD
Creating customized dentures and partials involves a few visits to our office to ensure that your teeth will fit you perfectly. First, we thoroughly examine the current condition of your gums and any remaining teeth you have. If you require a tooth extraction, we plan it before you receive your dentures. Our office also offers tooth extractions, so this can all be done under one roof.
Next, we may recommend you have a few teeth implanted to help hold your dentures in place while they are in use. This prevents slippage and can make your set of teeth more secure than they would be in a bare mouth. Our office also does dental implant procedures, so we can schedule this if necessary.
When your mouth is prepped for your dentures or partials, our doctors will take dental impressions to ensure that the teeth we create for you will perfectly fit your smile. We aim to make your new dentures and partials look as natural as possible. Then, your impressions are sent off to our labs. We call you back to our office when your oral appliance is ready.
Dentures FAQs
Are dentures the only option for tooth replacement?
No. Although there are other options to replace missing teeth, dentures are the tried-and-true option for most patients. Today’s modern dentures are more versatile and can be permanent with dental implants to reduce maintenance and improve comfort.
How long must you wait to get dentures after tooth extraction?
Usually, you will need to wait until your gums heal from tooth extraction before getting your final denture restoration. This can take 4 to 6 weeks and depends on your overall health. In the meantime, your dentist can provide you with temporary dentures to aid you in the recovery process.
How long does it take to adjust to dentures?
If you are new to dentures, have patience, and don’t get frustrated if they “feel weird in your mouth” for the first couple of days and weeks. Everyone’s different, so adjusting to wearing them can take days or some time. Dentures are a major restoration that takes your whole mouth to adapt.
Can you eat normally with a partial denture?
Patients with partial dentures can eat whatever they would like. However, there may be some adjustment time after we place the denture. During the adjustment period, most patients stick to a soft diet.
Can you drink coffee with dentures?
Patients with dentures can drink coffee, but it is important to know that coffee can stain your dentures. To prevent staining, patients should rinse with water and brush their teeth after drinking coffee.
Schedule A Dental Exam at Columbia Family Dentist
Call Columbia Family Dentist at 410-670-8211 or schedule an appointment online today if you need a good set of dentures or partials.