Dentures and partial dentures have been a long-standing tooth replacement option for patients missing several consecutive or a full arch of teeth. Traditionally, dentures have been a removable appliance that requires daily cleaning and the use of an adhesive to keep them in place and provide a stable bite.
Today’s dental patients enjoy a broader range of far superior options. An experienced restorative dentist in Greeley, CO, Dr. Thompson works with patients on an individual basis to replace missing teeth. We will recommend the most suitable option for your oral health needs, aesthetic goals, and budget.
Modern dentistry recommends that we strive to keep our natural teeth healthy for as long as possible for the best quality of life. With the advent of new technology in the dental field and improved standards of oral health in recent years, we are retaining our natural teeth longer than ever before.
This means that we must maintain consistent oral hygiene and schedule regular dental checkups throughout our lifetime. Dr. Clement Monroe and Dr. Kamron Monroe understand that our oral health needs change as we age and would like to discuss some special concerns for adults and senior patients.
Dentures: What are the Options?
Example of an All-on-four implant-secured denture.
Dentures can be either removable or fixed, using several dental implants to secure them permanently in place. When it comes to choosing the right type of denture for your needs, Dr. Thompson will evaluate all aspects of your oral health and take other important factors into consideration:
- Condition of your jaw bone
- Condition of the gums
- Function and stability of the bite
Whenever considered a viable option Dr. Thompson will recommend an implant-supported denture. This type of denture not only restores the most natural function and aesthetics but also provides benefits for your long-term oral health. The most important of these benefits is the support of bone health and structure in the jaw.
When a tooth or several teeth are lost the bone where tooth roots used to become diminished, changing the fit of the bite and the shape of the lower jaw over time. the placement of dental implants helps to stabilize bone tissue and stimulate the natural production of tissue to reduce bone loss in the jaw.
Dr. Thompson also offers All-On-Four for the immediate placement of a full denture. This unique procedure was developed to enable a wider range of edentulous patients or those needing a partial or full mouth of new teeth to receive a completely new smile the same day as a result of advanced treatment planning. All-On-Four can be completed in our office for convenient, comfortable, and consistent care.
Dentures FAQs
Can a dentist upgrade my existing dentures?
Not really. Traditional dentures can be adjusted or relined, but it is not possible to “upgrade” them. We can however create modern dentures that fit better than your old dentures. Your mouth changes over time, so you may want to get new ones if you’ve had your dentures for a long time.
Can dentures cause gum problems?
Yes. Ill-fitting dentures can cause gum irritation, and gum disease if they do not fit properly. Old dentures can harbor bacteria that are tough to remove.
Why do my dentures not fit anymore?
As mentioned before, your mouth changes over time. Your jawbone deteriorates and your gums recede due to normal aging. If you’ve had your denture for a while and it is causing issues, schedule a visit with our dentist for a consultation and recommendations.
Schedule A Denture Consultation in Greeley
If you have missing teeth or have been suffering from a slipping denture, schedule a consultation with Dr. Thompson. He will discuss your needs and appropriate tooth replacement options after an exam. Contact our Greeley dentist office at 970.205.9614 or request an appointment online.