An estimated 50 million Americans have lost all their teeth, and 69 percent of adults are missing at least one tooth. This can lead to alignment problems, dietary limitations, and self-esteem concerns. Fortunately, with modern dentures, your dentist can help restore both your appearance and your oral health.
What are dentures?
Dentures are prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. Full dentures cover the upper, lower, or both arches of your mouth with artificial teeth. If you still have some natural teeth remaining, your dentist may recommend partial dentures to fill the gaps in your smile, fitting seamlessly into the empty spaces.
How do dentures feel?
It’s normal to experience some discomfort or awkwardness when first wearing dentures, as your mouth will need time to adjust. In the beginning, you may find it difficult to pronounce certain words, but this is temporary and will improve with practice.
Do dentures need to be replaced?
As we age, our mouth’s structure changes. Over time, dentures may need to be realigned, repositioned, or replaced entirely. It’s important never to attempt adjusting the dentures on your own; instead, consult with your dentist if you notice anything unusual.
How do I care for my dentures?
Proper care is essential to prolong the lifespan of your dentures. Handle them carefully to avoid damage, and always store them safely in a case when not in use. Clean your dentures gently with mild soap and water to remove bacteria and food particles. Keep them out of reach from pets and small children.
Should I still brush my gums if I have dentures?
Yes! Even though you have dentures, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene. Brush your gums twice daily to keep the soft tissue healthy and prevent any irritation or infection.
We offer dentures at our Longview dental office.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how dentures can improve both your appearance and oral health.
Good oral health is a key factor in bringing smiles to the faces of the entire family. When everyone has healthy teeth and gums, there’s more to smile about. Oral health issues can sometimes run in families, so addressing one person’s issue may help alert others to potential problems. A family dentist is a valuable asset for everyone in your household. This type of dentist cares for individuals of all ages, from young children to seniors, all in one practice. Family dentistry is dedicated to meeting the oral health needs of every family member, offering a wide range of benefits.
Establishing a relationship with a family dentist means that everyone in the household visits the same office for their appointments. Over time, the dentist and staff become familiar with each person’s needs, fostering comfort and ensuring that everyone receives consistent, high-quality care. A family dentist understands the unique needs of each family member, making the experience more personalized.
Family dentists are highly trained and equipped to handle various dental concerns. This includes routine services like cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and fillings. Some family dentists also offer advanced procedures such as implants, veneers, bonding, contouring, root canals, and even orthodontic care. When choosing a family dentist, it’s important to find one that provides services to meet the diverse needs of every family member.
In addition, family dentists are skilled at educating patients on how to care for their oral health. They teach children proper brushing and flossing techniques, remind teenagers about the importance of maintaining braces, and offer special care to adults for maintaining healthy gums. Seniors may require attention to keep their natural teeth in good condition. Family dentists are well-versed in addressing the oral health challenges unique to each stage of life, ensuring tailored care for optimal results.
Your smile is one of your most valuable assets, and maintaining good oral health should be a priority. Finding a trusted family dentist is the first step toward safeguarding your family’s oral well-being.
Take the first step towards optimal oral hygiene. Reserve your dental appointment at our Longview dental office now and experience personalized care.
Dental Implants: Benefits and Risks in [Longview]
Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, offering numerous benefits for both function and appearance. However, like any surgical procedure, there are also some potential risks to consider. If you’re thinking about getting dental implants, here’s what you need to know:
Benefits of Dental Implants
- Appearance: Dental implants blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a realistic and attractive smile.
- Comfort: Implants function just like your natural teeth, offering comfort and ease in daily activities such as eating and speaking.
- Support: Implants provide structural support to your jaw, preventing a “caved-in” appearance and preserving a youthful look.
- Sensitivity: Many patients report reduced tooth and gum sensitivity after receiving dental implants.
- Adjacent Teeth: Unlike dental bridges, implants do not affect or require alterations to neighboring teeth, preserving their health.
- Durability: Implants are a long-lasting solution, typically requiring only one surgery. Even if the crown needs replacing, it can be done without additional surgery.
- Speech: Implants restore your ability to speak clearly and naturally, unlike dentures that may shift.
- TMJ Health: Replacing missing teeth helps prevent jaw disorders such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems.
- Bone Loss Prevention: The titanium posts of implants fuse with your jawbone, preventing bone loss and gum recession over time.
Risks of Dental Implants
- Infection: Without proper oral hygiene, gum and tissue infections can occur. Following all recovery and care instructions is essential.
- Failed Integration: In some cases, the implant does not properly fuse with the jawbone, leading to discomfort or looseness. If this happens, the implant will need to be removed and replaced after the area has healed.
- Sinus Problems: If implants are placed in the back of the upper jaw, they may affect your sinuses, requiring additional surgery like sinus augmentation.
- Nerve or Tissue Damage: Though rare, implants can cause nerve or blood vessel damage, leading to pain, tingling, swelling, or numbness. This is typically avoidable with a skilled dentist or oral surgeon.
Choosing the Right Dental Implant Specialist
To minimize risks and ensure the best outcome, it’s crucial to choose an experienced and qualified dental implant dentist in [Longview]. A skilled professional will guide you through the process, ensuring a successful treatment and a beautiful, lasting result.
We offer dental implants for missing teeth at our Longview dental office.
