New Year, New Smile: Are Dentures Right for You?

Now that January is here, many Americans are working toward their New Year’s resolutions. While some people focus on weight loss or productivity, others want a healthier, more vibrant smile. But if you’re missing some or all of your teeth, knowing the best approach can be challenging.

At SolidSMILES Dental in Lewisville, Texas, Family and cosmetic dentist Hiral Patel, DDS, regularly works with patients to determine the best tooth replacement option, which in some cases is dentures. Read on to learn why you should consider dentures, how to tell if you’re a good candidate, and what getting them involves.

Why consider dentures?

Dentures offer an effective way to replace some or all of your natural teeth. If you’ve lost teeth due to dental extractions or trauma, it’s easy to assume it’s not a big deal. But without taking action, missing teeth can make biting and chewing painful, increase your risk of gum disease, or cause your remaining teeth to shift, leading to speech and aesthetic concerns.

We offer several types of dentures, including partial, full, and implant-supported dentures. Each option can be customized to your needs to improve your oral health and smile appearance. Thanks to modern materials and manufacturing techniques, dentures look natural and feel more comfortable than ever.

Signs dentures might be right for you

Dentures are a popular option for replacing missing teeth, but not everyone is a good candidate. Still, certain signs can indicate they may be a good option. Ask us about dentures if you have:

• A history of tooth loss
• Extensive decay
• Gum disease
• Pain or difficulty eating certain foods

You may also benefit from dentures if you feel self-conscious about your smile. 

After reviewing your dental records, taking X-rays, and conducting an oral exam, Dr. Patel can determine the most appropriate tooth replacement option for your needs.

What is the process for getting dentures?

The process for getting dentures depends on the type of dentures you need and how many of your teeth are missing. 

Partial or complete dentures

Partial and complete dentures are removable and either snap into place around your existing teeth or rest on top of your gums. Getting these types of dentures usually takes two appointments spaced a week or two apart. 

After Dr. Patel determines you’re a candidate, she takes impressions of your mouth and sends them to a denture lab. The denture lab uses your impressions to craft a custom set of dentures that look natural and fit perfectly. Once your new dentures are finished, you return to our office for a second appointment to try them on.

Implant-retained dentures

Getting implant-retained dentures is a more time-consuming process. These dentures attach to dental implants, which are small titanium screws that Dr. Patel inserts into your jawbone. It takes several months for the implants to fuse with your jawbone, so she provides you with temporary dentures while your mouth heals.

Everything else remains the same. Dr. Patel takes impressions of your mouth, and a lab uses them to craft dentures that fit perfectly. Implant-retained dentures stay in your mouth and require brushing and flossing like your natural teeth.

Ask us about enhancing your smile with dentures

If one of your New Year’s resolutions was to improve your smile and oral health, dentures may be your best bet. To see if you’re a candidate, make an appointment. Call SolidSMILES Dental today or book your visit online.