Why Replacing Missing Teeth Is Essential

Missing teeth can cause many issues, many of which go beyond aesthetics. Here are some of the problems that can arise when missing teeth are not replaced, highlighting the importance of addressing tooth loss:

  1. Jawbone Loss: Teeth play a critical role in maintaining the strength and health of your jawbone. When a tooth is lost, the bone that supported it no longer receives stimulation and begins to atrophy, much like a muscle that isn’t used. This bone loss can affect the structure of your face, leading to a sunken, aged appearance. Dentures, especially when paired with dental implants, can help prevent bone loss by providing necessary stimulation to the jawbone.
  2. Shifting of Remaining Teeth: When a tooth is lost, the remaining teeth can shift over time, moving into the space where the tooth used to be. This can cause your bite to become misaligned, leading to painful conditions like TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder) and other discomforts. A proper tooth replacement helps maintain the alignment of your teeth.
  3. Bite Irregularities and Malocclusion: Missing teeth can impact how your upper and lower teeth come together when you bite down, a condition known as malocclusion. This can place undue stress on your remaining teeth, gums, and jaw muscles, causing discomfort and further dental problems.
  4. Chewing and Digestive Issues: Each type of tooth has a specific function—your front teeth help you bite into food, while your molars in the back grind and chew food for digestion. When you’re missing teeth, properly breaking down food can be difficult, leading to digestive issues like GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). Dentures restore your ability to chew efficiently, improving your diet and digestive health.
  5. Changes in Facial Structure: Teeth support the structure of your face. When multiple teeth are missing, your face may look sunken or hollow as the jawbone deteriorates. High-quality dentures can help maintain your facial shape, preventing premature aging when teeth are missing.
  6. Speech Impediments: Missing teeth can impact your speaking ability, causing slurring or difficulty pronouncing certain words. Dentures can help you regain your ability to speak normally, allowing you to communicate more confidently.

The Denture Process

Our dentist is committed to making the denture process as smooth and comfortable as possible. The process varies slightly depending on whether you need full or partial dentures, but here’s what you can expect:

  1. Initial Consultation: During your first appointment, Dr. Prill will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and recommend the best tooth replacement options. If you’re a good candidate for dentures, we’ll explain the entire process and begin planning your treatment.
  2. Tooth Extractions (If Necessary): If you still have any damaged or decayed teeth, they may need to be extracted before dentures can be placed. Tooth extractions are a routine process for many patients receiving full dentures.
  3. Impressions and Custom Design: Once your teeth have been removed or if you are already missing teeth, Dr. Prill will take impressions of your mouth. These impressions allow us to create custom dentures that fit comfortably and securely. We will carefully consider the shape of your mouth and bite pattern to ensure your dentures feel and function as naturally as possible.
  4. Temporary Dentures (If Needed): Patients may sometimes receive immediate dentures right after their teeth are removed. This provides a temporary solution while the gums and jawbone heal. Immediate dentures allow you to avoid going without teeth during the healing period, which typically lasts between six weeks to two months.
  5. Final Dentures: Once your mouth has healed, your final set of dentures will be crafted and placed. These custom dentures will be designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, giving you a beautiful, functional smile. If necessary, we’ll make adjustments to ensure the perfect fit.
  6. Follow-Up and Adjustments: After placing your dentures, we may need to make minor adjustments to ensure optimal comfort and function. Dentures can take some getting used to, but we’ll be with you every step to ensure the fit is perfect.

Full and Partial Dentures

At Signature Smile Family Dentistry, we offer both full and partial dentures:

  • Full: These are designed to replace all your teeth and are typically recommended for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth. They provide a complete smile makeover, restoring your teeth’ function and appearance.
  • Partials: If you still have some natural teeth remaining, partial dentures can fill in the gaps. They are held in place with metal clasps and help maintain the alignment of your remaining teeth while restoring your smile.

Contact Us to Learn More About Dentures

To learn more about how dentures can restore your smile and improve your quality of life, contact our restorative dentist today! Call Dr. Hilary Prill at (321) 633-4020 or complete our online contact form. We also offer complimentary second opinions—just bring in your x-rays and treatment plan, and we’ll provide a thorough review.

We frequently have specials for patients without dental insurance and offer flexible payment options to make dentures and other dental treatments accessible to everyone.

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