Mayda Ferguson, DDSDentures – Metairie, LA
Replace Your Entire Smile
Missing teeth can really take a toll on your self-confidence. You might be
afraid to smile or laugh in front of people in the same way you did when you
had all your pearly whites. Luckily, your
dentist
offers an easy solution – dentures. This set of prosthetic
teeth can be used to restore your smile back to its former glory. If
you’re ready to say goodbye to the hassle of missing most or all of
your teeth, then
contact
Second Line Family Dentistry today to schedule a consultation for dentures in Metairie.
Types of Dentures
There are three main kinds of dentures:
- Full dentures: Designed to replace the entire top or bottom arch of teeth, full dentures are what you most often think of when someone mentions dentures. They stay in place with natural suction against the gums and denture adhesive if necessary.
- Partial dentures: Also known as partials, partial dentures are ideal for patients who are missing only a few teeth. They consist of a metal framework onto which several prosthetic teeth are attached. They stay in place with the help of metal clasps or brackets. Like full dentures, partials are removable, and they prevent remaining natural teeth from shifting out of place.
- Implant dentures: By placing four to six dental implants in your jaw, we can provide enough support for a permanent or removable denture, depending on your personal preference. Dental implants provide unmatched stability and can last for upwards of 30 years if you take proper care of them.
Who’s a Good Candidate for Dentures?
If you have experienced moderate to severe tooth loss, dentures are likely an excellent solution. Whether you are missing multiple teeth in different areas of the mouth, or you no longer have any healthy teeth, dentures can help! To find out if dentures are right for you, you will need to schedule a consultation. After reviewing your medical history and examining your smile, Dr. Ferguson can put together a custom plan just for you. Until then, here’s what you should know.
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The Effects of Missing Teeth
Teeth are very strong, but they aren’t completely safe from damage. Teeth can be harmed in a variety of ways, including tooth decay, gum disease, and trauma to the mouth. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, there are many negative effects of tooth loss, including facial sagging, difficulty speaking, trouble eating, and low self-esteem. By replacing your missing teeth with dentures, you can improve all of these effects.
What Qualifies You for Dentures?
Dentures are an ideal option for people who are missing several, most of, or all of their teeth. Depending on the number of teeth you are missing and where they are located in the mouth, we can put together a custom plan just for you. It’s important to have excellent oral health before getting dentures, so any tooth decay or gum disease will need to be addressed ahead of time. Once your smile is in ideal health, we can move forward with the dentures process.
Alternative Tooth-Replacement Options
If dentures don’t sound like your cup of tea, there are a couple of other tooth replacement options that we offer:
- Dental Bridges: A dental bridge works by “bridging” the gap with a replacement tooth. The replacement tooth, also called a “pontic,” is supported by two dental crowns that are placed on the adjacent teeth. This is ideal for patients who are only missing one or a couple of consecutive teeth.
- Dental Implants: A dental implant is a screw-like post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth. This requires that the patient has a strong and sufficient jawbone. Dental implants have a higher upfront cost than dentures, but they are made to last for many decades.
Benefits of Dentures
Dentures offer a whole host of benefits, such as preserving your facial structure. When you suffer through tooth loss, the muscles of your face eventually begin to sag. Dentures help keep your facial structure looking exactly like it was before your tooth loss.
They also allow you to smile with confidence again. Missing teeth can really stand out in your grin and make you self-conscious about the appearance of your smile. You may develop a habit of covering your mouth with your hand or lips when you smile, laugh, or even talk. Getting your teeth replaced with dentures can allow you to do these things to your heart’s content without worrying about the way your smile looks.
Lastly, missing teeth severely impair your ability to eat a full, nutritious diet with healthy, crunchy foods like raw vegetables and tough meats. Dentures restore a majority of your original biting power, allowing you to eat virtually whatever you want once again.
Denture FAQs
Dentures in Metairie offer a reliable and aesthetically pleasing way to replace teeth. Before you commit to them, however, you may have questions about the treatment and how it works. That’s why we have compiled the following list of FAQs. If you don’t see the information you were hoping for, get in touch with us directly. A member of our friendly team will be happy to address all of your questions and concerns.
What Is the Best Way to Eat with Dentures?
If you have implant dentures, you can eat without taking any special precautions. With traditional dentures, you should be careful to distribute food evenly on both sides of your mouth. Also, instead of biting directly into tough foods (like apples or corn on the cob), you should cut them into pieces first.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
Traditional dentures usually last for 5 – 8 years before replacement becomes necessary. This is due to the fact that your jaw will change shape over time. Our team will reline (adjust) your dentures for you, but eventually, the changes to your jaw’s structure will reach the point where you need a new prosthetic altogether. Implant-retained dentures tend to maintain their original fit for an indefinite period of time because the implants prevent significant changes in the jaw’s shape.
How Much Do Dentures Cost?
Our team will provide you with a personalized estimate for the cost of your treatment when you visit us for your consultation. Regular, non-implant dentures are one of the most cost-effective means of replacing lost teeth. In most cases, insurance is willing to cover a significant portion of their price. Implant dentures cost more, but many patients feel they are worth it due to their outstanding stability and longevity.
What Do Dentures Feel Like?
When you first get your dentures, you will have a foreign object in your mouth. You might produce more saliva than usual, and your speech may be affected. However, most patients adapt to using their dentures quite quickly. Once you get the hang of using them, they may feel like a natural extension of your oral anatomy.
How Can I Care for My Denture?
You should clean your denture daily with a non-abrasive cleanser and a soft-bristled toothbrush. When you are not wearing your prosthetic, store it in water or a denture-soaking solution to keep it moist. Visit your dentist for regular checkups, wherein we will examine your gums, your remaining natural teeth, and your prosthetic.
