Missing teeth can be both embarrassing and troublesome, making chewing and articulation difficult. With affordable dentures from Silver Spring Smiles in Silver Spring, MD, you can get back to normal with a natural looking smile and renewed confidence.

Complete Dentures vs. Partial Dentures

Dentures serve as a removable prosthetic for missing teeth and the surrounding tissue. At Silver Spring Smiles, we offer two options: partial or complete dentures. Partial dentures are used when the patient still has some natural teeth, while complete dentures are used when the patient lacks any natural teeth.

Dr. Dufera uses two kinds of complete dentures: conventional or immediate. A conventional denture is created after the teeth and gum tissue have been removed, and the gum tissue has begun to heal, which normally takes around four to six weeks. Unfortunately, during this time the patient will have to function without teeth. About eight to 12 weeks after dental extraction, the conventional denture is ready for placement.

Immediate dentures are formed before the teeth and gum tissue have been removed, and are promptly placed after teeth removal. The obvious advantage of immediate dentures is that the patient never has to go without teeth while the mouth is healing. However, after tissues shrink and heal, which could take up to six months, modifications will need to be made. Generally, immediate dentures are considered a temporary fix until conventional dentures can be manufactured.

Partial dentures offer a more natural look and are an option for patients who still have one or more natural teeth in the jaw. A removable partial denture or dental bridge is composed of replacement teeth fixed to a plastic base which is made to resemble the gums, sometimes connected by a metal structure that holds the denture securely. This kind of denture fills in the spaces left by missing teeth while also keeping other teeth from shifting.

Life with Dentures

Patients often wonder what dentures will feel like, if they will make them look different, or whether eating will be difficult. Life with dentures may take some adjusting, but this form of dental treatment can enhance your smile and fill out your facial appearance.

In the first few weeks with your dentures, they may seem loose or feel odd until your mouth becomes accustomed to the new appliance and you get more comfortable putting them in and taking them out. Patients may also encounter mild irritation, soreness, or increased saliva during the initial stages. However, these issues will resolve themselves as the mouth adapts.

Practice makes perfect when it comes to eating with dentures. It might even be a little uncomfortable for some patients for the first several weeks. Be gentle on your new dentures by starting with soft foods in small pieces, chewing carefully using both sides of your mouth. This adjustment period won’t last forever. In no time, you can get back to your typical diet. However, when wearing dentures it’s important to be cautious with hot, exceedingly sticky, and hard foods. Also, avoid chewing gum and using toothpicks.

A Renewed Smile Is Only a Call Away

At Silver Spring Smiles, dentures are an affordable, effective option that eliminates the embarrassment of missing teeth. Dr. Dufera and his knowledgeable, compassionate team are ready to help you take back your confidence, so contact us at 301-588-5400 today!