Complete and Partial Dentures Pittsburg CA

Dentures replace missing teeth in the mouth. If some of the teeth are missing and some remain, the denture is referred to as a partial denture. When all of the teeth are missing in an arch it is referred to as a complete or full denture. Complete dentures are called “conventional” or “immediate” according to when they are made and when they are inserted in the mouth.

Immediate dentures are inserted immediately after the removal of the remaining teeth. In order to accomplish this your doctor takes measurements and makes models of the patient’s jaws during a preliminary visit. An advantage of an immediate denture is that the patient does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. The disadvantage is that the gums and bone can shrink during the first six months after the extraction of the teeth. Depending how much the gums shrink it may be necessary to rebase or reline the denture in order for it to fit properly.

Implants provide stability and support for the denture as well as increased retention.

With the advent of implant dentistry it is now possible to use implants to help retain dentures, both partial and complete. Implants can be placed before the dentures are fabricated, or placed in the jaw for existing denture wearers. Implants provide stability and support for the denture as well as increased retention.

How do I take care of my dentures?

Dentures are very delicate and may break if dropped even a few inches. Handle over a folded towel or a basin of water when cleaning dentures. When you are not wearing them, store your dentures away from children and pets.

Like natural teeth, dentures must be brushed daily to remove food deposits and plaque. It’s best to use a brush designed for cleaning dentures. A toothbrush with soft bristles can also be used. Avoid using hard- bristled brushes that can damage dentures. Your dentures can be cleaned with soap or mild dishwashing liquid, as well as a commercial denture cleanser. Avoid using household cleansers, which may be too abrasive, as well as bleach which may whiten the pink portion of the denture.

Dentures may lose their shape if they are allowed to dry out or warp in hot water. When they are not worn, dentures should be placed in room temperature water or a denture cleanser solution.