For anyone missing teeth, dentures can be a life-changing solution. They do more than simply replace missing teeth or restore your smile; they transform your oral health. You’ll be able to eat, maintain good facial structure and even speak better with a simple dental upgrade. Even if you are only looking for a few replacement teeth, the confidence and complete smile you’ll have with dentures is priceless.

What’s The Point Of Dentures?

But hearing the word “dentures” might send a shiver down your spine. Aren’t those for old people? Nope, anyone struggling to keep a functional mouth can complete their smile with dentures! At Springfield Dental, we want you to feel confident about choosing dentures and understand the many health benefits they bring beyond aesthetics.

Why Dentures Matter

Tooth loss affects far more than just appearance; it can impact your ability to chew and speak and may even lead to the loss of bone in your jaw. Dentures help address these issues in ways that improve your daily life and long-term health:

Improved Chewing and Digestion

Missing teeth can make eating a challenge, and when you can’t chew food effectively, it can disrupt digestion and limit the types of food you can enjoy. Dentures restore your ability to break down food properly, which aids in digestion and ensures your body gets the nutrients it needs.

Enhanced Speech

Missing teeth can make certain sounds difficult to pronounce, leading to slurred speech. Dentures can help you regain clearer speech by filling in those gaps, allowing your tongue and lips to form sounds more accurately. Many patients at our Springfield Ohio dentistry are surprised by how much easier it becomes to speak once they have a full set of teeth again.

Support for Facial Muscles

When teeth are missing, facial muscles can start to sag, giving the appearance of premature aging. Dentures help support these muscles, maintaining the shape of your face and giving you a more youthful look.

Bone Health

Although dentures don’t stimulate bone growth like dental implants, they can still protect the remaining bone structure in your mouth. By filling the gaps left by missing teeth, dentures prevent further shifting of natural teeth, which can slow bone loss in the jaw.

Boosted Confidence and Mental Well-Being

Living without teeth or with damaged ones can make you feel self-conscious about smiling, laughing, and even eating in social settings. Dentures restore the confidence to show off your smile and jump into life’s everyday moments.

Types of Dentures

When it comes to dentures, there are several types to choose from, depending on your specific needs. Here are the primary types available:

Full (Complete) Dentures

Full dentures replace an entire set of missing teeth, either in the upper or lower jaw. They rest on the gums and are custom-fitted to each person’s mouth. Full dentures are removable and may require adjustments over time to maintain a comfortable fit as your mouth changes.

Partial Dentures

If you’re missing only some of your teeth, partial dentures are a great option. They consist of a gum-colored base with replacement teeth attached, which clips onto your natural teeth with clasps. Partial dentures can prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of place, helping maintain your bite and smile.

Implant-Supported Dentures

For a more stable fit, implant-supported dentures are anchored by dental implants that are surgically placed in the jawbone. This type of denture offers added stability, which means less slipping or shifting, and helps preserve jawbone health.

Custom Dentures

Custom dentures are personalized to match your individual needs and preferences. Made to fit the natural look of your gums and teeth, custom dentures often feel more comfortable and offer a more natural appearance.

What To Expect When You Get Dentures

The journey to getting dentures may seem daunting, but it’s a straightforward process designed to ensure you’re comfortable with your new smile. Here’s an overview of the steps involved to get dentures at Springfield Dental:

Consultation and Examination

During your first visit, your dentist will assess your oral health, take X-rays if needed, and discuss the best denture options based on your needs. This consultation is a great time to ask questions and express any concerns.

Extractions & Immediate Dentures

We’ll make all the necessary extractions. If our team approves you for immediate dentures, we’ll place them right away. Otherwise, we’ll fit your conventional dentures to your mouth after your gums heal.

Fitting and Adjustments

After your gums have healed, your dentist will fit dentures to your mouth and make any necessary adjustments. This fitting process takes multiple appointments to ensure the dentures feel secure and natural.

Follow-Up Visits

As you start wearing your new dentures, you may need a few more follow-up appointments for further adjustments. These visits help ensure that any sore spots or pressure points are addressed and that you’re fully comfortable.

Natural-Looking and Comfortable

One common concern among patients is that dentures will look or feel unnatural. In modern dentures, we use advanced materials and technology that make them more comfortable and lifelike than ever before. Today’s dentures are custom-designed to match your mouth and facial features, providing a fit that enhances your appearance while feeling secure and comfortable. Advances in acrylic and porcelain materials also mean that dentures can closely resemble natural teeth, helping you feel confident and authentic.

How to Care for Your Dentures

Just like natural teeth, dentures require daily care to keep them in top condition. Proper maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your dentures but also keeps your mouth healthy. Here are a few essential denture care tips:

Daily Cleaning

Remove your dentures and clean them with a soft denture brush and denture cleanser daily. Avoid regular toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive and cause tiny scratches.

Rinse After Eating

Rinse your dentures after meals to remove food particles and prevent stains.

Handle with Care

Dentures can break if dropped, so be gentle and consider cleaning them over a soft towel or basin of water.

Regular Dental Check-Ups

Continue to visit your dentist regularly. These check-ups allow your dentist to examine your gums and check the fit of your dentures, ensuring they remain comfortable.

Find Your Confidence With Dentures

If you’re hesitant, remember that you’re not alone. Many adults have chosen dentures to improve their oral health and quality of life. And at Springfield Dental, we’re here to guide you through every step, from your initial consultation to adjusting your new smile. We’re committed to making your experience positive, comfortable, and empowering.

Discover the Life-Changing Benefits

If you’re considering dentures or are ready to upgrade your current set, Springfield Dental Group can help. Our compassionate team is here to provide guidance, answer questions, and ensure you receive the best possible care for your oral health.
With today’s options, dentures aren’t just a solution for missing teeth. They’re a pathway to a healthier, more confident life! Schedule a consultation today to explore your options and start your journey to better oral health!