Complete Dentures in North Miami Beach, FL
The Solution for Missing Teeth with Dental Implants and a Beautiful Smile
Complete dentures are a favored choice for individuals who need to replace missing teeth, especially those who have lost most or all of their natural teeth. They offer both functional and aesthetic benefits, helping to restore smiles and enhance oral health. Our North Miami Beach, FL dentist provides complete dentures as a reliable and effective method to rejuvenate your smile.
Reach out to our dental office today at 305-945-0909 to book your appointment!
What Are Complete Dentures?
Complete dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace a full arch of missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw, or both. Conventional complete dentures are generally made from acrylic resin and depend on the alveolar ridge and saliva for their retention. Customized to fit each person’s mouth, they are generally made from acrylic resin. These dentures sit directly on the gums, secured by suction or denture adhesive.
They offer a practical and aesthetic solution for those who have lost all their teeth due to decay, gum disease, injury, or other causes. Complete dentures utilize artificial teeth to help you eat, speak, and smile confidently, with denture retention being influenced by factors such as surface tension and viscosity.
Components of Complete Dentures
- Base: The acrylic base is crafted to resemble natural gums.
- Teeth: Made from acrylic or porcelain, these prosthetic teeth are designed to mimic natural teeth.
- Flange: This part of the denture extends into the cheeks and lips, aiding in retention.
Effects of Tooth Loss on Oral Tissues
Tooth loss can significantly impact the oral tissues, leading to various changes that affect both appearance and function. When natural teeth are lost, the jawbone begins to resorb, or shrink, due to the lack of stimulation that teeth roots provide. This bone loss can result in a decrease in bone density, altering the shape and size of the jawbone over time.
Additionally, the surrounding soft tissues, such as the gums and cheeks, can also shrink. This shrinkage can lead to a sunken facial appearance, making individuals look older than they are. The loss of teeth and subsequent changes in the oral tissues can also decrease the overall function of the mouth, making it more challenging to eat and speak effectively.
Addressing tooth loss promptly with solutions like complete dentures can help mitigate these effects, preserving the health of the remaining soft tissues and maintaining facial structure.
Complete Denture Types
There are several types of complete dentures, including:
- Conventional Dentures: These are crafted and placed once the remaining teeth are removed and the gum tissue has healed completely, which can take several months, leaving the patient without teeth during this period.
- Immediate Dentures: Inserted immediately after tooth removal, these dentures are prepared in advance. Although they allow patients to avoid being toothless during the healing phase, adjustments or relining may be necessary as tissues heal and change.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: These dentures are anchored using dental implants. They snap onto or connect with implants in the jawbone, offering improved stability and function over conventional dentures.
Denture Materials
The materials used in denture fabrication play a crucial role in the comfort, functionality, and aesthetics of the final product. Here are some common materials used to create dentures:
- Acrylic: A versatile and popular choice, acrylic is used to create the denture base and artificial teeth. It is lightweight, easy to adjust, and can be tinted to match the natural color of gums and teeth.
- Resin: Known for its strength and durability, resin is often used for the denture base and teeth. It provides a natural appearance and can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
- Nylon: This flexible material is used to create partial dentures. Nylon dentures are comfortable to wear and less likely to break compared to more rigid materials.
- Metal: Often used in the framework of partial dentures, metal provides strength and stability. It is typically combined with acrylic or resin to create a durable and functional denture.
- Porcelain: Valued for its aesthetic appeal, porcelain is used to create artificial teeth that closely resemble natural teeth. It is durable and resistant to staining, making it a popular choice for those seeking a natural look.
Each material has its unique benefits, and the choice of material will depend on individual needs and preferences.
Benefits of Complete Dentures
Complete dentures provide numerous advantages for those who have lost all their natural teeth, such as:
- Improved Aesthetics: Dentures restore a natural look by replacing missing teeth, supporting the lips and cheeks, and preventing the sunken appearance associated with tooth loss.
- Enhanced Chewing and Speaking: Dentures improve chewing efficiency, aiding digestion and nutrition, and help in clearer speech, preventing slurring or mumbling due to missing teeth. Denture adhesives enhance retention and stability, improving cohesion and adhesion beyond the natural properties of saliva.
- Restored Oral Function: Complete dentures enable eating a wider variety of foods that require more chewing, promoting a balanced diet.
- Easy to Maintain: Removable dentures are straightforward to clean and maintain. Regular cleaning and proper hygiene can prolong their lifespan and prevent issues like bad breath or oral infections.
- Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable than alternatives like dental implants, complete dentures are a practical option for those on a budget.
- Customization: Dentures can be tailored for comfort to fit the individual’s mouth. Modern materials and techniques enhance fit and comfort, ensuring they do not harm the underlying soft tissue.
- Minimal Healing Time: Unlike dental implants, which require healing post-surgery, dentures can be worn almost immediately after fitting and adjustments.
Getting Your Complete Dentures
The process for obtaining complete dentures involves several steps:
- Initial Examination: Our North Miami Beach, FL dentist will assess your oral health, review your medical history, and discuss your expectations.
- Impressions: Precise molds of the mouth are taken to design the dentures.
- Try-In: A preliminary denture model is tested for fit, bite, and appearance before the final product.
- Adjustments: Necessary modifications ensure a perfect fit.
- Final Fitting: You’ll receive your permanent dentures, along with aftercare instructions.
Denture Fabrication Protocol
Creating a new denture involves a detailed and precise process to ensure a perfect fit and optimal function. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the denture fabrication protocol:
- Initial Impression: The first step involves taking an initial impression of the patient’s mouth using a soft material. This impression captures the general shape and size of the mouth.
- Master Impression: A more detailed impression is then taken using a rigid material to capture the finer details of the mouth, ensuring a precise fit.
- Wax Rims: Using the master impression, wax rims are created to establish the correct shape and size of the denture. These rims help in determining the proper alignment and bite.
- Wax Teeth Try-In: The patient tries on a wax model of the denture to check for comfort, fit, and appearance. Adjustments can be made at this stage to ensure the final denture will be perfect.
- Delivery: The final step is the delivery of the new denture. The patient receives their completed denture along with instructions on how to care for it properly.
This meticulous process ensures that the new denture will be comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.
Candidacy for Complete Dentures
Several factors determine eligibility for complete dentures, including:
- Complete tooth loss
- Good oral health
- Strong jawbone
- Realistic expectations
- Commitment to oral hygiene
Oral and maxillofacial surgery plays a crucial role in preparing for complete dentures, ensuring that any necessary surgical considerations and follow-ups are addressed to optimize outcomes.
To learn more about your denture candidacy, contact our dentist in North Miami Beach, FL today. Reach out to our dental office at 305-945-0909 to schedule your appointment!
Complete Denture Costs
Complete dentures range from $1,000 to $4,000. The cost of full dentures varies based on several factors:
- Location: Costs can vary significantly by location, often higher in urban areas compared to rural areas due to increased overhead and living expenses.
- Material: Dentures are made from various materials. Premium materials often look more natural and last longer but are more expensive.
- Type of Denture: Options include conventional full dentures and immediate full dentures. Conventional dentures are crafted after tooth removal and gum healing, while immediate dentures are made beforehand and positioned right after tooth removal. Immediate dentures may cost more due to their expedited process.
- Dentist’s Experience and Reputation: Experienced and reputable dentists or prosthodontists may charge more than those new to the practice.
- Additional Procedures: Sometimes, additional dental procedures, like extractions, are necessary before fitting dentures, adding to the overall cost.
Postoperative Denture Care
Proper care of your new dentures is essential to maintain their comfort, functionality, and appearance. Here are some key steps for postoperative denture care:
- Cleaning the Denture: Regular cleaning is crucial to prevent the buildup of plaque and bacteria. Use a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner to clean your dentures daily.
- Storing the Denture: When not in use, store your dentures in a clean, dry place. If your dentures are not being worn overnight, keep them in water or a denture-soaking solution to prevent them from drying out and losing their shape.
- Avoiding Certain Foods: Be mindful of the foods you eat. Avoid hard or sticky foods that can damage your dentures. Cut food into smaller pieces to make chewing easier and reduce the risk of dislodging your dentures.
- Scheduling Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your dentist are important to ensure your dentures continue to fit properly. Your dentist can make any necessary adjustments and provide additional care tips.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your dentures remain in good condition, providing you with a comfortable and functional solution for your missing teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my full dentures?
Full dentures typically last between 5 to 10 years with proper care and maintenance. Their lifespan depends on factors such as oral hygiene, wear and tear, and the materials used. Keep in mind that as we age, our mouths change, and dentures may not fit as well as when first made.
How long does it take to get used to wearing complete dentures with denture adhesive?
Adjusting to complete dentures can take several weeks or even months. Initially, you may experience discomfort, soreness, and difficulty speaking or eating. However, with time and practice, most people adapt to wearing dentures and enjoy their benefits.
Transform Your Smile With Dentures Today!
By understanding the requirements and process, you can make an informed decision and enjoy the advantages of complete dentures for years to come.
Call our North Miami Beach, FL, office today at 305-945-0909 to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve patients in North Miami, Aventura, and West Park.