ºÚÁÏÉçÇø

Effects of Missing Teeth

If you are struggling with tooth loss, then you know firsthand that it can adversely affect your daily life. For example, you might find it difficult to chew your favorite foods, or you may hesitate to smile in public. You could even struggle to enunciate certain sounds. The good news is that dentures have the potential to help with all such issues; almost anyone with a significant degree of tooth loss can qualify for this treatment.

What Qualifies You for Dentures?

During your consultation with our team at United Dental Centers, Chicago, we will review your medical and dental history, complete a comprehensive oral exam, and learn more about your daily routine. Then, we can determine if you’re a good dentures candidate. If your gums are healthy, you’re struggling with moderate to severe tooth loss, and you’re committed to healthy habits, like brushing your teeth twice a day, there’s a good chance that the answer will be “yes!”

Important reminder: You may need preliminary care, like a tooth extraction or gum disease treatment. If that’s the case, don’t worry – that doesn’t mean having a complete arch of teeth is out of reach forever. Rather, it means we need to restore a healthy foundation so the final result is a smile that’s as healthy as it is beautiful.

Alternative Tooth-Replacement Options

Although dentures are incredibly versatile, there are some cases when they aren’t the best tooth-replacement solution. If that’s the case for you, then we will discuss the other options available, including:

• Dental bridges – Dental bridges are used to replace one missing tooth or up to four missing teeth in a row. If we decide that this is the best way to rebuild your smile, then we will secure a dental crown to the tooth on each side of the gap before securing the custom bridge in position.
• Dental implants – Dental implants are unlike any other tooth-replacement solution because they are inserted into the jawbone. As a result, the teeth surrounding the gap don’t need to be altered. Plus, it helps prevent bone loss and can last for 30+ years with proper care!

If you are ready to face tooth loss head-on, but you want to learn more about your treatment options first, we’re here to help! Schedule a consultation with us so we can learn all about your dental needs and help you decide the best path to a strong, healthy, and complete smile.

What Are Dentures Made Of?

Dentures consist of two components, those being:

• The base: This structure provides the foundation the denture needs to fit comfortably and securely, and it is usually crafted from acrylic that can be easily shaded to match the color of the natural gum tissue. Bases can also be manufactured from nylon, porcelain, resin, or metal. The bases of partial dentures may incorporate metal clips designed to allow them to connect with the remaining teeth for a more stable hold.
• The artificial teeth: The false teeth of dentures are typically made from porcelain or acrylic. While porcelain usually looks and feels more natural, it can be harsh on the remaining natural teeth, so it is typically only used for full dentures. The acrylic teeth used for partial dentures are also incredibly beautiful and lifelike.

The Denture Creation Process

Each denture from our office in Chicago will be carefully customized through the following process:

• Our dentist will take precise measurements of your bite to create a plaster replica of your mouth called a cast.
• This cast is sent to a trusted lab where a skilled technician will craft a wax version of your gumline.
• The technician will set artificial teeth into the wax using device called an articulator.
• These wax dentures will be sent back to our office so you can try them on. If they’re approved, we’ll send them back to the lab to be finalized. We’ll also supply you with temporary dentures to wear until your final appliance is complete.
• Back at the lab, the technician will place the wax dentures in a flask and boil them to eliminate the wax portions.
• After making holes in the teeth and adding a liquid separator, the technician will inject acrylic into the flask to replace the wax.
• The technician will carefully remove the plaster using special tools and clean the denture with an ultrasonic bath.
• The technician will trim and polish the denture.
• The denture will be sent back to our office for a fitting. After any final adjustments, you’ll be ready to show off your newly restored smile.

Adjusting to Your New Dentures

It’s normal to experience some discomfort while adjusting to a new set of dentures, but you should find that your appliance becomes increasingly natural feeling as you get practice using it. During your adjustment period, you may be able to wear your appliance more comfortably by using over-the-counter pain medication, sticking to a soft diet, exercising your facial muscles, and experimenting with an adhesive. However, contact our office in Chicago if your discomfort isn’t getting better after several days.