Dentures and Partial Dentures: Not Just for Seniors

While dental implants have gained popularity in recent years, dentures remain a preferred choice for many patients. Not every tooth replacement option suits every individual, and there are several reasons why dentures might be the right solution for you:

• Affordable tooth replacement: Dentures often offer a more cost-effective option compared to implants and bridges. Traditional full and partial dentures typically come with lower upfront costs, even when considering replacement every 5 to 10 years. Insurance coverage can also impact overall expenses.
• Lower procedural risk: Denture treatment carries fewer risks compared to dental implants, which require more invasive surgery. Patients who wish to avoid the potential complications or discomfort from implant surgery—especially those with age-related bone loss—may find dentures a safer alternative.
• Faster treatment timeline: The denture process is usually quicker to complete than implants, which can take a year or more due to multiple stages and extended healing periods.

The denture process typically begins with taking a precise impression of your mouth. Using this, the dentist creates a detailed model cast in dental stone. To ensure the perfect fit, our team may ask you to try several sterilized denture sets, allowing you to choose the ideal size, shape, and color of the replacement teeth. After your preferences are finalized, the dentist may adjust the model before sending it to the dental laboratory for fabrication.At the dental lab, skilled technicians craft a wax model of the gum line and create replacement teeth from resin, a material that closely mimics natural teeth. Before proceeding with finalizing the dentures, technicians seek approval from both the patient and the dentist to ensure satisfaction with fit and appearance.Once approved, the wax is removed and replaced with acrylic for a more natural look and durable finish. This involves boiling out the wax, drilling small holes, and injecting acrylic into the mold. Afterward, the dentures are carefully cleaned, polished, and prepared for delivery.The entire process typically requires four to five visits to the dentist’s office to ensure a comfortable fit and optimal function.If you’re in Chicago or nearby areas like Hermosa, Logan Square, or Oak Park, our dental team is here to guide you through each step of your denture journey with expert care.

When considering dentures, patients can choose from several options based on their unique dental needs. Advances in dentistry have also led to hybrid solutions that combine dentures with other treatments to offer greater comfort and function. Here’s a brief overview of the most common denture types:
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Full Dentures
Typically used by seniors, full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth and rest directly on the gums. Some patients qualify for immediate dentures, which are placed right after tooth extraction. For others, the dentist may recommend waiting 8 to 12 weeks post-extraction to allow the gums to heal before fitting the dentures.

‍Partial Dentures
If you still have healthy natural teeth remaining, partial dentures may be the best choice. These dentures use a metal framework with a pink base that anchors the false teeth securely to your existing teeth, preventing movement.

‍Implant-Supported Dentures
This option combines the stability of dental implants with the convenience of dentures. Instead of implanting individual teeth, a few implants anchor an entire upper or lower denture in place. Implant-supported dentures are fixed and not removable. However, not every patient is a candidate for this treatment.

‍Overdentures or Snap-In Dentures
For those who want the stability of implants but prefer removable dentures, overdentures are an excellent choice. Dental implants act as anchors for the dentures, offering improved fit and function. Snap-in dentures take this a step further by using special attachments on both the implants and dentures, allowing the dentures to snap securely into place.Choosing the right denture option depends on your oral health, lifestyle, and preferences.

At our dental office serving Chicago neighborhoods like Hermosa, Logan Square, and Oak Park, our team is here to discuss all available options and help you find the perfect fit for your smile.

Soak Dentures Overnight
To keep dentures in good condition, always soak them overnight in a denture-cleaning solution or plain water. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the material. Remember, denture solutions should never be used directly in the mouth—always rinse dentures thoroughly before wearing them again. Our dental team can recommend the best denture cleaning products tailored to your needs.

‍Clean Dentures Daily
Just like natural teeth, dentures need daily cleaning to remove food particles and prevent bacteria buildup. After eating or drinking, remove and rinse your dentures whenever possible. Brush your dentures at least once a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging the surface.

‍Maintain Oral Hygiene Even Without Teeth
Even if you no longer have natural teeth, oral hygiene remains essential. Gently brush your gums, cheeks, tongue, and roof of the mouth with a soft toothbrush or gauze pad to stimulate tissue and remove bacteria. Don’t forget to clean off any denture adhesive residues thoroughly.At our Chicago dental practice, serving areas like Hermosa, Logan Square, and Oak Park, we provide personalized advice to help you keep your dentures comfortable and your mouth healthy.