Dentures in Lakeway fall into three broad categories: full, partial, and implant-supported. Each offers its own blend of advantages and considerations. All of them provide benefits for people who are struggling with the problem of missing teeth. It’s important to work with your dentist to find the option that’s right for you.
Partial dentures are used when the patient retains some of his or her natural teeth. The restoration itself typically includes a set of replacement teeth connected to a gum-colored plastic base. Clasps or other attachments join the appliance to the surrounding teeth.
Partial dentures usually require shaping the teeth that will be used to hold the restoration in place. The product is removable at the wearer’s discretion for cleaning or other purposes. A partial denture is often a good choice for patients who still have some healthy natural teeth.
A full denture is used in cases where all the teeth on the upper or lower jaw are either missing or in an advanced state of decay. The restoration is designed to fit the wearer’s gum line.
Using a full denture may require extracting the remaining natural teeth. The patient may use a set of temporary dentures while the permanent ones are being crafted.
Properly designed dentures mold to the contours of the patient’s mouth comfortably. However, there may be an initial breaking-in period during which the wearer experiences some discomfort.
Paste adhesives are sometimes needed to hold a permanent denture in place. These products should be used as supplemental measures only, never as a workaround for a poorly fitting product.
Full dentures require resizing every few years as the patient’s oral profile begins to change. The wearer may also need to modify his or her dietary habits; for example, cutting food into smaller portions.
Despite these potential drawbacks, traditional full dentures have helped millions of people to live healthier, happier lives. They’re well worth considering when you’re investigating your treatment options.
Implant-supported dentures differ from traditional products in that they’re supported by a series of small titanium fixtures embedded in the patient’s jaw. The patient may remove the appliance as needed for cleaning or other personal tasks. However, the restoration itself will never come loose by accident.
Implant-supported dentures require no adhesives. They allow the patient to eat his or her customary diet and enjoy an active professional and social life. They’re an increasingly popular option among those in need of full or partial tooth restoration.
Implant-supported dentures are not the right solution for all patients. They require a sufficient amount of healthy underlying bone to support the restoration. In some cases, a dental surgeon may be able to perform a corrective bone graft.
All types of dentures require reasonable self-care efforts on the patient’s part. These include keeping the appliance clean, brushing and flossing any remaining natural teeth and seeing the dentist for periodic exams.
To enjoy the greatest possible benefit from the restoration, the patient should also avoid all forms of tobacco and consume alcohol only in moderation.
Don’t let tooth loss keep you from enjoying a fuller, richer life. Discuss the restoration options mentioned in this post with your dentist soon. You’ll soon find yourself with plenty of reason to smile.
About the Author
Dr. Winston Eaddy has been practicing dentistry in Lakeway for 20 years. He earned his DMD degree from the Medical University of South Carolina and his advanced periodontist degree from the Boston University School of Graduate Dentistry. You can reach his office online or by calling (512) 263-4252.
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