Dentures in Washington, PA
Missing teeth can impact your confidence and make everyday activities like eating and speaking challenging. If you have trouble regaining your confidence or enjoying your favorite foods because of your teeth, dentures might be the answer. These dental appliances have come a long way in recent years, offering not just functionality but also a natural appearance.
At Elizabeth L. Wakim, DDS, we offer a range of denture options tailored to meet your unique needs and preferences. With our advanced technology and compassionate care, we are adept at designing and placing high-quality dentures that fit comfortably and look natural. We also aim to provide you with an experience that is as smooth and positive as possible, whether you are considering full or partial dentures.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are removable appliances that offer a solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring oral function. Whether you’ve lost teeth due to injury, decay, periodontal disease, or occlusal trauma, dentures provide a way to regain the ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. They come in two main types:
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures are intended for individuals who have lost all of their natural teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Custom-made to fit snugly on the gums, these dentures not only restore function but also provide a natural appearance, helping improve the overall shape and structure of your face. Complete dentures rely on suction or dental adhesives to stay in place, offering a secure fit that allows for a variety of daily activities. Advances in denture materials and technology have also made them more comfortable and lifelike than ever before.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are options for individuals who still have some of their natural teeth remaining. These appliances fill the gaps left by missing teeth, ensuring your existing teeth remain properly aligned and supported. Partial dentures are typically made with a metal or acrylic framework that attaches to your natural teeth, and they can be either removable or fixed, depending on your preference and your dentist’s recommendation.
By preventing neighboring teeth from shifting out of place, partial dentures help maintain the integrity of your remaining teeth while offering a functional and aesthetic solution for tooth loss.
What Are the Benefits of Dentures?
Dentures can offer different benefits for individuals with missing teeth, making them a necessary choice for many. The benefits of getting dentures include:
Improved Appearance
One of the most immediate benefits of dentures is the restoration of your smile. Dentures can enhance your facial structure and boost your confidence, allowing you to smile freely once again.
Functionality
Dentures can improve your ability to chew and speak, making everyday activities easier and more enjoyable. Although they will not be able to completely restore your normal function, they can allow you to enjoy your favorite foods without discomfort.
Comfort
Modern dentures are designed to be comfortable and secure, providing a fit that minimizes irritation. With the right adjustments and adaptation, your dentures can feel like a great addition to your mouth.
The Process of Getting Dentures
During your first visit, we will assess your oral health and discuss your options. We will consider factors like your facial structure, jawbone health, and personal preferences to determine the best type of dentures for you.
Once we decide on the appropriate dentures, our team will take impressions of your mouth. This ensures a custom fit that provides both comfort and functionality. You will have a chance to try on the dentures and make any adjustments needed before they are finalized.
After receiving your dentures, follow-up appointments are essential to confirm they fit well and meet your needs. We will make any necessary adjustments to ensure comfort and functionality as you get used to your new smile.
Caring for Your Dentures
Maintaining your dentures is crucial for their longevity and your oral health. Proper care includes:
Daily Cleaning
Just like natural teeth, dentures require daily cleaning to prevent plaque buildup and stains. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for dentures and a gentle cleanser. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can be abrasive.
Soaking
When not in use, soak your dentures in a solution recommended by your dentist to keep them moist and prevent warping. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly before wearing them again.
Regular Check-Ups
Regular dental visits are essential to ensure your dentures fit well and to check for any changes in your oral health. We can provide adjustments and recommendations to help you maintain a healthy smile.
Reach Out to Elizabeth L. Wakim, DDS in Washington, PA for Dentures
At Elizabeth L. Wakim, DDS, we prioritize your comfort and satisfaction. Our compassionate team is committed to providing personalized care tailored to your needs. We use advanced technology to create high-quality dentures that look and feel natural.
If you are ready to take the first step toward restoring your smile, contact us today at (724) 225-5070 or through our contact form. Let us help you regain your confidence and enjoy life with a beautiful, functional smile.
Common Questions
Candidates for dentures typically have significant tooth loss, but it’s essential to consult with a dentist who will evaluate your oral health, jawbone structure, and personal preferences to determine the best solution.
Traditional dentures rest on the gums, relying on suction or adhesives for stability. Implant-supported dentures are anchored to dental implants, providing a secure fit and enhanced chewing ability.
The timeline depends on the type of dentures and whether extractions or healing are necessary. Traditional dentures may take several weeks, while implant-supported options might require several months for complete placement.
With practice, most people adapt to eating with dentures. Initially, you may need to stick to softer foods and gradually reintroduce firmer items as you adjust.
Clean your dentures daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush or a denture-specific brush and a non-abrasive cleaner. Soaking them overnight in a denture solution helps maintain their shape and cleanliness.
Dentures typically last 5–10 years with proper care. Over time, they may need adjustments, relining, or replacement due to changes in your oral anatomy or wear and tear.
It’s common to experience slight speech changes when adjusting to dentures. Practice speaking out loud to become more comfortable and improve pronunciation.
Poorly fitting dentures can cause discomfort or sores. Visit your dentist for adjustments or relining to improve the fit and ensure they function correctly.