Dentures were made as early as the 7th century B.C. These early dentures, made by the Etruscan people, were built from animal teeth held together with gold bands.
First, Dr. Landree will meet with you at Dental Studio 920, and explore all of your options for replacing your missing teeth. These include dentures, as well as dental implants and dental bridges.
If some of your teeth are unhealthy or you’re getting full dentures, you may need one or more tooth extractions. These will be done before your denture fitting.
If Dr. Landree approves you for dentures, you’ll come in for a follow-up denture fitting. Dr. Landree will take molds and images of your teeth and gums, and will create a bite mold of your mouth. After your first fitting, she will work with a dental lab to build a set of test dentures.
Next, you’ll come to our office and try out your first set of test dentures. Dr. Landree will work with you to adjust the fit, shape, and appearance of your dentures. Then, she will order a new set of test dentures from our partner dental lab. This process will be repeated several times, until your dentures fit perfectly.
Once your test dentures fit perfectly, Dr. Landree will order your final set of permanent dentures. Then, you’ll come to our office to try your dentures last time and get care instructions from Dr. Landree. We’ll send you home with a brand-new smile!
Partial dentures replace one or several missing teeth. They consist of multiple false teeth that are attached to a metal and plastic framework. This clips onto your remaining healthy teeth, holding your dentures in place and restoring your smile.
Full dentures use an acrylic, gum-colored base that supports a full row of teeth. They can be used to replace the upper, lower, or both rows of teeth. Full dentures require the removal of all of your remaining teeth, even if they're healthy. For this reason, full dentures are usually only recommended for patients who have serious oral health issues, such as extensive gum disease or tooth decay.
It is important to remove your dentures in before bed to prevent soreness and infection.
Usually, a set of full dentures will last somewhere between 5-10 years. Partial dentures typically last 10-15 years with proper care.
Over time, your dentures may wear down and require replacement. It’s important to continue coming to your six-month checkups at with your Green Bay dentist to ensure that your dentures are in good shape.
After you eat, you should remove your dentures and rinse them to remove any loose food particles. At least once a day, you should brush your dentures with a soft bristled toothbrush and mild, unscented, soap. This helps remove bacteria and food and prevents the buildup of stains.
At night, you should remove your dentures from your mouth to allow your gums to rest. During this time, you need to keep your dentures moist. You can store your dentures in a glass of water, or you can soak your dentures in an overnight denture cleaner. Denture cleaner is available at most drug stores and grocery stores.
Absolutely, you can eat with dentures. However, it may take a little time for you to get used to the new sensation. Initially, you might find it a bit challenging to eat certain types of food. It's advisable to start with soft foods like eggs, yogurt, or cooked vegetables that are easy to chew. Gradually, as you become comfortable, you can start introducing more solid foods into your diet.
Remember, it's essential to cut your food into smaller pieces and chew slowly using both sides of your mouth to prevent the dentures from tipping. Also, avoid biting down directly with your front dentures as it can lead to them becoming dislodged.
Dentures are not considered a permanent solution, but they can last a long time with proper care. The lifespan of dentures typically depends on various factors such as the type of dentures, the material they are made from, and how well they are maintained.
Over time, your gums and jawbone can change shape, which might necessitate adjustments or replacements to ensure your dentures fit well and are comfortable. Regular check-ups with your dentist at Dental Studio 920 are crucial to monitor these changes and ensure your dentures remain in optimal condition. If you have any issues with the fit or feel of your dentures, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
While it's possible to sleep with your dentures in, it's generally not recommended. Your gums and jaw need a break from the pressure exerted by dentures. Removing them at night allows your oral tissues to recover and helps maintain good oral health.
However, if you choose to sleep with your dentures, be sure to maintain a diligent cleaning regimen to avoid the buildup of plaque and bacteria. And remember, whether you sleep with your dentures or not, it's essential to soak them in a denture cleanser overnight to keep them moist and prevent them from warping.
The coverage for dentures can vary significantly depending on your specific dental insurance plan. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost, while others might cover the full cost. It's important to review your dental insurance policy or speak with your insurance provider to understand what is covered.
At Dental Studio 920, our team can also help you navigate your insurance coverage and provide you with an estimate of any out-of-pocket costs you might incur. We strive to make dental care, including dentures, as affordable and accessible as possible for our patients in Green Bay, WI, and Ashwaubenon, WI. We are always happy to help!