Dentures

Tooth loss can significantly impact oral health and self-esteem, whether due to aging, injury, or dental disease. Missing teeth can make it difficult to eat and speak properly and can even affect your facial appearance over time. Fortunately, dentures in Wells, ME, provide an excellent solution for individuals looking to restore their smile, improve oral functionality, and regain confidence. With the help of our experienced dentist in Wells, ME, you can explore various denture options that fit your unique needs and lifestyle.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are custom-made to fit comfortably in your mouth, helping you easily chew, speak, and smile. Dentures come in two primary types: full dentures, which replace an entire arch of teeth, and partial dentures, which fill gaps where only a few teeth are missing. Modern dentures are designed to look natural and fit comfortably, offering an excellent balance between function and aesthetics.

Types of Dentures

When considering dentures in Wells, ME, it's essential to understand the different types available. Our dentist can guide you in choosing the right option based on your oral health, the number of missing teeth, and your preferences. 

Full (Complete) Dentures

Full dentures are designed to replace all the teeth in the upper or lower arch (or both). These are ideal for patients who have lost most of their natural teeth. Full dentures are typically made from acrylic resin and may have a base that mimics the natural color of your gums. The upper denture covers the roof of your mouth (palate), while the lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to accommodate your tongue.

There are two types of full dentures:

• Conventional Full Dentures: These are placed after any remaining teeth have been removed and the gums have healed. Healing can take several weeks to months, during which the patient may go without teeth or use temporary dentures.
• Immediate Full Dentures: These are placed immediately after removing any remaining teeth. While immediate dentures allow patients to not go without teeth, adjustments may be necessary as the gums heal and shrink.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are used when only a few teeth are missing and the remaining natural teeth are healthy and strong enough to support them. They consist of replacement teeth attached to a metal or acrylic framework that clasps onto natural teeth. Partial dentures not only fill the gaps left by missing teeth but also prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of place. Our dentist in Wells, ME, will design your partial dentures to fit securely and comfortably, ensuring they blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures are an excellent option for patients seeking a more stable and durable solution. Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, and the denture is attached to these implants, providing a secure fit that won't slip or move. Implant-supported dentures are especially beneficial for lower dentures. This option provides improved chewing ability, enhanced speech, and greater comfort. Patients with sufficient jawbone density can greatly benefit from this long-lasting and reliable option.

The Benefits of Dentures

Opting for dentures in Wells, ME, offers several benefits beyond just filling in the gaps left by missing teeth, including: 

Improved Oral Function

Dentures restore your ability to chew food and speak clearly. Missing teeth can make eating a wide variety of foods difficult, potentially leading to nutritional deficiencies. With dentures, you can enjoy a more varied and balanced diet, contributing to your overall health and well-being.

Enhanced Appearance

Tooth loss can cause the facial muscles to sag, giving you a sunken or prematurely aged appearance. Dentures help maintain the structure of your face by supporting the cheeks and lips, providing a fuller, more youthful look. Modern dentures are designed to closely resemble natural teeth, ensuring your smile looks as natural as possible.

Boosted Confidence

Missing teeth can make you self-conscious about your appearance, especially when smiling, laughing, or speaking. Dentures restore your smile and help you regain confidence in social and professional situations. Whether attending a family gathering or a business meeting, dentures allow you to smile proudly and interact comfortably with others.

Preservation of Remaining Teeth

Partial dentures not only fill the gaps left by missing teeth but also help maintain the position of your remaining natural teeth. Without the support of a partial denture, the surrounding teeth can shift into the empty space, leading to bite problems, uneven wear, and further tooth loss. Partial dentures keep your remaining teeth in place, contributing to a more balanced bite. 

If you have lost some or all of your natural teeth, contact us at Nortey Dental for the best dentures to restore your smile and improve your oral health.

The Denture Fitting Process

Getting dentures in Wells, ME, involves several steps to ensure the final appliance fits comfortably and functions properly. The entire process typically takes several weeks and multiple appointments with our dentist. 

Initial Consultation

During your first visit, our dentist will evaluate your oral health and discuss the best type of dentures for your needs. This may include taking X-rays and impressions of your teeth and gums to ensure a precise fit. 

Tooth Extraction (If necessary)

Our dentist will schedule extractions if you have any remaining unhealthy teeth that need to be removed before receiving dentures. If you receive immediate dentures, they will be fitted on the same day as the extractions. However, if you are getting conventional dentures, your gums must heal before the dentures are placed. 

Impressions and Custom Fitting

Once your gums have healed or your existing teeth are prepared, our dentist will take impressions of your mouth. These impressions will be sent to a dental laboratory, where your dentures will be custom-made to fit your mouth's unique shape and structure. 

Denture Fitting and Adjustments

Once your dentures are ready, you'll return to our dental office in Wells, ME, for fitting. Our dentist will ensure that the dentures fit comfortably and securely. Adjustments may be necessary to achieve the best possible fit. It may take some time to adjust to wearing your new dentures, but you'll soon be eating, speaking, and smiling confidently with practice. 

Caring for Your Dentures

Proper care is essential to maintaining the longevity and function of your dentures. Here are a few tips to keep them in great shape:

• Clean Your Dentures Daily: Just like natural teeth, dentures must be cleaned daily to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleanser to gently clean your dentures. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can scratch the surface of your dentures.
• Soak Your Dentures Overnight: Keep them moist by soaking them in water or a denture-cleaning solution when you're not wearing your dentures. This helps maintain their shape and prevents them from drying out.
• Brush Your Gums and Tongue: Maintaining the health of your gums and tongue is important for good oral hygiene. Use a soft toothbrush to gently clean your gums, tongue, and remaining teeth.
• Visit Our Dentist Regularly: Regular check-ups with our dentist in Wells, ME, are crucial to ensure that your dentures continue to fit well and that your oral health remains in good condition.

Conclusion

Dentures in Wells, ME, are a reliable and effective way to restore the function and appearance of your smile. Whether you need full dentures, partial dentures, or implant-supported dentures, our skilled dentist in Wells, ME, can provide a customized solution that fits your unique needs. With the right dentures, you can enjoy eating, speaking, and smiling confidently once again, improving your overall quality of life.

Schedule your appointment today at Nortey Dental, located at 1332 Post Rd, Wells, ME 04090, by calling (207) 646-5297. To learn more about the various services we provide, please visit our official website.