Dentures in Scripps Ranch
Tooth loss is a prevalent problem in adults of all ages, whether it happens due to tooth decay, gum disease, traumatic injury, cancer or simply wear and tear. More than 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, and more than 36 million Americans are missing all of their teeth, according to data from the American College of Prosthodontists.
Dentures are dental prosthetics designed to recreate the look and feel of missing teeth. Replacing teeth with dentures enables proper chewing and biting function; dentures also recreate the appearance of a complete, beautiful smile. And, they can keep your face looking full and youthful.
Dr. Jennifer Santoro offers several different types of dentures. During a consultation, she can evaluate you for dentures and help you find the right fit for your specific needs and goals.
Types of Dentures
Full/ Complete Dentures
Conventional or complete dentures are intended to replace all of the teeth in the upper and lower jaws. They are constructed from artificial teeth attached to a flesh-colored acrylic base that mimics the appearance of gum tissue. The base of the upper dentures covers the gums and the roof of the mouth, and the base of the lower dentures is horseshoe-shaped to rest over the gums without covering the tongue.
Conventional dentures are removable, but some patients opt to anchor the dentures to several implant posts placed throughout the jaw. This enhances the fit, comfort and stability of the dentures for individuals that have sufficient jawbone to support and retain the implant posts.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are meant to fill in gaps left by one or a few missing teeth. Like conventional or full dentures, partial dentures are designed from false teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base. Partial dentures rely on the remaining teeth for support; many of them have metal clasps or tiny attachments that affix to the adjacent teeth. Partial dentures can also be attached to crowns placed on the surrounding natural teeth.
The Denture Design Process
Your dentures will be customized to the unique contours of your mouth. Sometimes, Dr. Santoro must remove one or a few remaining teeth before fitting you for dentures. If extraction is required, she will allow several months for the affected tissues to heal.
How to Ensure Best Results
Once you have completely recovered from the tooth extraction, impressions and measurements will be taken of your mouth to send to the laboratory that constructs your dentures. Provisional dentures may be provided so you do not have to go toothless during this time. When your permanent dentures are ready, you will return for another visit and Dr. Santoro will “try on” the dentures in your mouth, checking the way they fit and feel. Any last-minute adjustments can be made as needed.
There is a brief adjustment period as you get used to wearing your new dentures. Dr. Santoro and our team will provide complete instructions for caring for your dentures. You should have your dentures checked periodically to ensure they still fit and feel good in your mouth.
Learn More about Dentures
For more information about complete or partial dentures, please call 858-566-8510 or email Village Center Dentistry and request an appointment with Dr. Santoro.
