Complete dentures are a vital solution for individuals who have lost all of their teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. Whether due to age, disease, or trauma, tooth loss can significantly impact your quality of life. Fortunately, complete dentures offer a way to restore functionality and aesthetics to your smile. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about complete dentures, from their benefits and types to the process of obtaining them and maintaining them. If you are considering this option, especially if you are looking for a complete denture clinic in Edmonton, read on to make an informed decision.
What Are Complete Dentures?
Complete dentures are prosthetic devices designed to replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Unlike partial dentures, which fill in gaps left by missing teeth, complete dentures provide a full arch of artificial teeth. They are custom-made to fit your mouth and are held in place by the surrounding soft and hard tissues.
Benefits of Complete Dentures
- Improved Appearance: Complete dentures can enhance your facial structure and give you a natural-looking smile, boosting your confidence.
- Restored Functionality: They allow you to chew and speak more effectively than you could without teeth.
- Support for Facial Muscles: Dentures help maintain the shape of your face by providing support to the cheeks and lips.
- Affordable Option: Compared to dental implants, dentures are a more cost-effective solution for full-mouth tooth replacement.
Types of Complete Dentures
- Conventional Complete Dentures: These are made after all teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed. This process can take several months, during which you may be without teeth.
- Immediate Complete Dentures: These are made in advance and can be positioned as soon as the teeth are removed. While they offer the advantage of not being without teeth, they may require adjustments as the gums heal.
- Implant-Supported Complete Dentures: For a more stable solution, dentures can be anchored to dental implants. This option provides a secure fit and improved comfort.
The Process of Getting Complete Dentures
1. Initial Consultation
The first step in obtaining complete dentures is a consultation with a dental professional. If you’re in Edmonton, finding a reputable complete denture clinic in Edmonton is crucial. During the consultation, the dentist will evaluate your oral health, discuss your options, and take impressions of your mouth.
2. Custom Design and Fabrication
Once your dentist has taken the necessary impressions and measurements, your complete dentures will be custom-designed to fit your mouth. This process involves creating a model of your dentures and making adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit.
3. Fitting and Adjustments
When your dentures are ready, you will have a fitting appointment. During this visit, your dentist will place the dentures in your mouth and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a proper fit. It is common to have multiple follow-up appointments to fine-tune the fit and address any discomfort.
4. Learning to Use Your Dentures
Adjusting to complete dentures can take time. Initially, you may experience some discomfort or difficulty speaking and eating. However, with practice and patience, you will become more accustomed to your new dentures.
Maintaining Your Complete Dentures
Proper care and maintenance of your complete dentures are essential to ensure their longevity and your oral health.
1. Daily Cleaning
Just like natural teeth, dentures need to be cleaned daily to remove food particles and prevent plaque buildup. Use a soft-bristle brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser to clean all surfaces of the dentures.
2. Overnight Soaking
Most dentures need to be kept moist to maintain their shape. Soak them overnight in a denture-cleaning solution or plain water to keep them from drying out.
3. Regular Dental Check-Ups
Even with dentures, regular dental check-ups are important. Your dentist can check the fit of your dentures and your overall oral health, making any necessary adjustments.
4. Handle with Care
Dentures can be fragile, so handle them with care. Avoid dropping them, and always place them over a soft towel or water-filled sink when cleaning.
Common Issues and Solutions
While complete dentures offer numerous benefits, you may encounter some common issues. Here are solutions to some typical problems:
1. Soreness and Discomfort
It’s normal to experience some initial soreness. Over-the-counter pain relievers and saltwater rinses can help alleviate discomfort. If the pain persists, visit your complete denture clinic in Edmonton for adjustments.
2. Difficulty Eating
Start with soft foods and gradually introduce harder foods as you become more comfortable. Cutting food into smaller pieces can also help.
3. Speech Difficulties
Practice speaking slowly and clearly. Reading aloud can help you get used to speaking with your dentures.
4. Loose Fit
If your dentures feel loose, it might be due to changes in your gum and bone structure. Your dentist can reline your dentures to improve the fit.
Choosing a Complete Denture Clinic in Edmonton
Finding the right clinic is crucial for a successful denture experience. Here are some tips for choosing a complete denture clinic in Edmonton:
1. Research and Reviews
Look for clinics with positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied patients. Online reviews can provide insight into the quality of care and customer service.
2. Credentials and Experience
Ensure the clinic is staffed by qualified professionals with experience in prosthodontics and denture fabrication.
3. Comprehensive Services
Choose a clinic that offers a range of denture services, including consultations, fittings, adjustments, and repairs.
4. State-of-the-Art Technology
Modern dental technology can enhance the accuracy and comfort of your dentures. Look for clinics that utilize advanced equipment and techniques.
5. Personalized Care
Select a clinic that emphasizes personalized care and takes the time to understand your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Complete dentures are a reliable and effective solution for those who have lost all their teeth in one or both jaws. They can significantly improve your quality of life by restoring functionality and aesthetics to your smile. If you are in Edmonton and considering complete dentures, finding a reputable complete denture clinic in Edmonton is key to achieving the best results. By understanding the types, benefits, and maintenance of complete dentures, you can make an informed decision and enjoy the full benefits of a restored smile.