Complete Dentures
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Overview
Losing your natural teeth can be an emotional experience, and the prospect of replacing them with dentures can feel overwhelming. Will they look natural? How will they affect your ability to eat and speak? What’s the process really like? At The Denture Place, Dr. Taylor Lawrence Dietl understands these concerns all too well. He’s helped countless patients navigate the journey to complete dentures in Tampa with compassion and expertise. While the idea of dentures may seem daunting at first, he’s witnessed firsthand how life-changing and confidence-boosting they can be when done right.
What are Complete Dentures?
Complete dentures, also known as full dentures, are removable dental appliances that replace all of the natural teeth in either the upper or lower jaw or both. They consist of a gum-colored acrylic base that fits snugly over the gums and a set of artificial teeth designed to mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth.
Why Might Someone Need Complete Dentures?
There are several reasons why someone might require complete dentures:
- Extensive tooth loss or decay: If a person has lost all or most of their natural teeth due to gum disease, tooth decay, or injury, complete dentures may be the best solution to restore their ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently.
- Aging: As people age, their teeth become more susceptible to wear and tear, making complete dentures a viable option for maintaining oral health and function.
- Genetic factors: In some cases, individuals may be genetically predisposed to tooth loss or have conditions that affect tooth development, necessitating complete dentures.
What to Expect When Getting Complete Dentures?
The process of getting complete dentures typically involves several steps:
- Initial consultation: During your first visit to The Denture Place, Dr. Dietl will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and determine if complete dentures are the right solution.
- Tooth extractions (if necessary): If you still have remaining natural teeth, we may need to extract them before your dentures can be fitted.
- Impressions and measurements: Once your mouth has healed from any extractions, our team will take precise impressions and measurements of your gums and bite to create custom dentures that fit comfortably and look natural.
- Denture fabrication: A dental lab will carefully craft your custom complete dentures using the impressions and measurements.
- Fitting and adjustments: When your dentures are ready, you’ll return to The Denture Place for a fitting appointment. Dr. Dietl will ensure a proper fit and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your comfort and ability to speak and eat properly.
- Follow-up visits: After receiving your complete dentures, you’ll need to attend follow-up appointments to monitor the fit and make additional adjustments as your mouth adjusts to the new appliance.
How Long do Complete Dentures Last?
With proper care and maintenance, they can typically last between 5 and 10 years. However, the gums and jawbone can change shape over time, which may require relining or replacement of the dentures to maintain a comfortable and secure fit.
How do I Care for Complete Dentures?
Proper care and maintenance are essential for ensuring the longevity and function of your complete dentures. Here are some tips:
- Brush your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner to remove food particles and plaque buildup.
- Soak your dentures overnight in a denture-soaking solution or water to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out and losing their shape.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, which can damage the denture material.
- Handle your dentures with care to prevent them from dropping or breaking.
- Attend regular dental check-ups to ensure your dentures function properly and address any issues or concerns.
Can I Eat Normally With Complete Dentures?
While it may take some time to adjust to eating with complete dentures, most people can return to a relatively normal diet. However, it’s essential to start with soft foods and gradually introduce harder foods as you become more comfortable with your new dentures. Additionally, it’s recommended to avoid sticky or hard foods that could dislodge or damage your dentures.
Tampa Complete Dentures
At The Denture Place in Tampa, Dr. Taylor Lawrence Dietl and our team are dedicated to providing exceptional care and ensuring your complete dentures fit comfortably and function properly. If you have any additional questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us. We’re here to guide you through the process and help you achieve a confident, beautiful smile with complete dentures. In addition to dentures, we also offer crowns and bridges as well as dental implants.