Dentures – Bedford, TX
A New Smile Can Be Your Reality
If you are without most or all of your natural teeth, you can find hope in regaining your confidence and appearance again with the help of dentures in Bedford. At Meadow Park Family Dentistry, Dr. B and our team will work with you as well as our exceptional lab technicians to create a set of replacement teeth that not only look natural and blend in beautifully with your smile but also feel comfortable and allow you to use your teeth without any concern. Call us today to schedule an appointment to find out which type of denture is right for you.
Why Choose Meadow Park Family Dentistry for Dentures?
- Three Types of Dentures Available
- Dentist with Years of Experience
- Skilled Team Who Cares About Patients
Who’s a Good Candidate for Dentures?
Almost anyone can get dentures as long as they are missing at least one tooth, and the best way to learn if you can be a good candidate is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Buchupally. During this appointment, she will thoroughly examine your gums, jaws, and remaining teeth to ensure that dentures can effectively address your needs. If you aren’t ready for dentures just yet, you may be able to become one after receiving treatments to address gum disease or bone loss in the jaw.
Effects of Missing Teeth
Teeth can be lost as a result from injury, infections like tooth loss or gum disease, or even genetic causes. Tooth loss is known to cause a variety of issues such as difficulty with speaking and chewing, facial sagging, bone loss in the jaw, and diminished self-esteem. These issues can make it hard to enjoy yourself at social gatherings or even simply smile confidently at loved ones. Missing teeth can also make the remaining teeth more likely to be injured by unevenly redistributing the pressure of chewing or allowing food debris to be caught in the empty spaces. Both of these can lead to oral infections.
What Qualifies You for Dentures?
Dentures can be an excellent option for those who have lost teeth or deal with issues like dental sensitivity or extensive decay as long as they have healthy gum tissue and sufficient jawbone density. Patients will also need to commit to maintaining their oral health and their appliances with proper hygiene methods.
The denture that can best suit your needs depends on how many teeth you have lost. Partial dentures are great for those who have lost one or a few teeth while full dentures are best for those who have lost all or almost all of their teeth. Implant dentures can be an ideal option for those who wish for their appliances to fit more securely so they can chew and speak more easily. Dentures are also often more affordable than other tooth-replacement methods, which can make them great for those on a budget.
Alternative Tooth-Replacement Options
If you aren’t a good candidate for dentures, you can still explore other tooth-replacement options. Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed in the jawbone, where they fuse with the surrounding bone structure through the natural process of osseointegration. After an implant is placed, a crown made from high-quality materials that mimic the appearance of real teeth is attached to it above the gumline. While dental implants are more expensive than traditional options, they are permanent and can exert almost all of the same chewing force as real teeth. Some patients even use dental implants to secure their dentures in place for a superior hold.
Types of Dentures
Some dentures can replace one or two missing teeth. Some dentures replace all teeth and gums. When you visit our dental office for a consultation, our dentist will help you decide what type of denture is the best fit for your oral health. Here are some of the options we provide at Meadow Park Family Dentistry:
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures can be used in place of other tooth replacement options when the surrounding teeth are too weak to support structures like dental bridges or when more than one tooth is missing. Partial dentures will fit on the gumline and attach to nearby natural teeth to ensure that they don’t fall out of their place. They don’t have to be attached permanently and can be easily removed for cleaning and sleep.
Full Dentures
Full dentures are also known as complete dentures, and they replace all your natural teeth. They can be fitted to your top or bottom arch and are held in place with suction. Their stability can sometimes also be improved using an oral adhesive. They can be easily removed, just like partial dentures.
Implant Dentures
These dentures are fixed to the jawbone by dental implants, as the name suggests. Dental implants are permanent fixtures that attach to the jawbone. They can replace any number of missing teeth. The implant is made up of a metal post (usually made from titanium), an abutment, and a custom-made crown that looks like a natural tooth. Implant dentures can be attached in a variety of ways, but they should be treated and cared for in the same way as traditional dentures.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
The lifespan of dentures can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the dentures, the wearer’s oral hygiene habits, and changes in the mouth over time. On average, dentures can last between 5 to 10 years before they may need to be replaced or adjusted. However, it’s important to note that this is a general estimate, and individual experiences may differ.
Over time, the shape of the jawbone and gums can change, causing dentures to become loose or ill-fitting. This can lead to discomfort, difficulty chewing and speaking, and potential oral health issues. Regular dental checkups are essential to assess the condition of dentures and make any necessary adjustments or replacements to ensure optimal fit and function.
Proper care and maintenance of dentures can also contribute to their longevity. Dentures should be cleaned daily using gentle denture cleansers and a soft brush to remove plaque, stains, and food particles. It’s important to handle dentures with care, avoiding dropping them or exposing them to excessive heat, as this can cause damage.
While our dentures in Bedford can provide functional and aesthetic benefits, it’s important to be aware of their lifespan and plan for eventual replacements. Regular communication with your dentist will ensure that any changes in the fit or condition of your dentures are addressed promptly, allowing you to maintain comfort, oral health, and overall well-being.