Dentures in West Melbourne
Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. A complete denture replaces all teeth in an arch; a partial denture fills gaps and attaches to remaining natural teeth.
What dentures can help restore
Dentures can help with chewing, speech and appearance. Fit and comfort depend on the shape of your gums and jaw, and there is an adjustment period. They will not feel exactly like natural teeth, so realistic expectations and follow-up adjustments matter.
Complete and partial
Complete dentures rest on the gums and, for the upper arch, use suction against the palate. Partial dentures use a framework and clasps or other attachments connected to natural teeth. Keeping your remaining teeth healthy matters because they support a partial.
What to expect
Making a denture takes several visits for impressions, trial fittings of tooth position and shape, and final delivery. Soreness spots are common early on and are adjusted at follow-up visits. Tell us if anything rubs.
Implant-supported options
Dentures can sometimes be supported by implants for added stability. Whether this is an option depends on an assessment of bone, health and goals, and it is discussed case by case, not assumed.
Cleaning your dentures and your mouth
Remove and clean dentures daily with a soft brush and a non-abrasive product intended for dentures. Ordinary toothpaste can scratch the surface. Rinse the denture thoroughly before putting it back in your mouth; denture cleansers are not mouthwash.
Follow the instructions for your denture about soaking and storage, and avoid hot water, which can distort it. Clean your gums, tongue and any remaining natural teeth as well. Take dentures out for the period your dentist recommends, usually overnight, unless you receive different instructions after an extraction or other treatment.
The adjustment period
For the first days you may notice more saliva, a bulky feeling and altered speech. Reading aloud helps with speech, and starting with soft foods cut into small pieces helps with chewing. Sore spots are common and are adjusted at follow-up visits; wearing a denture through a sore spot makes it worse, so call rather than wait.
Living with dentures over time
Your gums and jawbone change shape over the years, so a denture that fit well may loosen. Do not use over-the-counter repair kits or glue, which can harm the denture or tissues. Loose dentures, persistent sores, or white or red patches in the mouth are reasons to book a visit, and regular exams continue even if you have no natural teeth.
Dentures, bridges or implants
Dentures are removable and can replace many teeth at once. Bridges are fixed but depend on neighboring teeth, and implants involve surgery and healing time. Which is reasonable depends on your health, bone, remaining teeth, time and budget, and it is discussed with expected costs in writing.
Common questions
Will dentures feel strange at first?
Yes, commonly. Speech and eating usually improve with practice and adjustments.
Can I sleep in my dentures?
Generally it is advised to take them out for part of each day. We will give guidance for you.
Can dentures be made more secure?
Implant support may be discussed depending on your assessment.
Will I know the cost before treatment?
Dr. Bailey discusses your options and gives expected treatment costs in writing before care begins. Questions about cost are welcome at any point.
Related care
Dr. John T. Bailey, DMD · West Melbourne Dentist · 917 South Wickham Road, West Melbourne, FL 32904.
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General dental education, not a diagnosis. Treatment recommendations depend on an individual examination.
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