Dentures Chapel Hill NC
Dentures have been used to replace missing teeth for centuries. Over the years, they have evolved into comfortable, attractive prosthetics that are a far cry from the “wooden teeth” of George Washington’s era. Today’s dentures are made of durable, appealing materials that perfectly mimic the look of natural teeth and gums. They are so comfortable that, when properly fitted, you may forget you’re wearing them!
At Studio G, Dr. Hart designs and fits custom-crafted partial and full dentures that restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile comfortably without breaking your budget. Our lightweight, affordable dentures are ideal for anyone who wants to replace missing teeth without invasive surgery, long recovery times, or the high price of implants.
Partial vs. Full Dentures
Partial Dentures are designed for people who still have some of their natural teeth. These removable appliances consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored base, often secured with metal clasps or wires attached to the remaining teeth. Partial dentures help prevent the remaining natural teeth from shifting and maintain proper bite alignment.
Full Dentures, also called complete dentures, are used when all teeth in the upper or lower jaw (or both) are missing. These dentures rest directly on the gums and are custom-made to fit your mouth. They’re typically made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, though immediate dentures can be placed right after extraction and adjusted as healing progresses. We may also provide you with temporary dentures during the healing period after teeth are extracted, then replace them with permanent dentures that have a more precise fit.
Most dentures are made of acrylic and can be fabricated two different ways.
- A conventional denture is made after all teeth have been extracted and the tissues (gums) have healed.
- An immediate denture is fabricated and inserted immediately after the teeth are extracted and the tissues are allowed to heal under the denture.
- An upper denture has acrylic, usually flesh colored, that covers the palate (roof of the mouth).
- A lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to leave room for the tongue.
The teeth are made of plastic, porcelain or a combination of both. Dentures can be fabricated to fit over endodontically treated teeth and a complete denture can be attached to dental implants to allow for a more secure fit of the appliance.
Dentures over a normal course of time will wear and need to be replaced or relined in order to keep the jaw alignment normal. The alignment will slowly change as the bone and gum ridges recede or shrink due to the extraction of the teeth. Regular dental examinations are still important for the denture wearer so that the oral tissues can be checked for disease or change.
How to Know if You Need Dentures
You might need dentures if you’re experiencing one or more of the following:
- Multiple missing teeth: Losing several teeth can impact your ability to chew and speak clearly.
- Difficulty eating certain foods: Trouble chewing, especially tougher foods, can be a sign your teeth aren’t functioning as they should.
- Gum disease or severe tooth decay: Advanced dental problems may require tooth removal, often leading to the need for dentures.
- Changes in facial appearance: Missing teeth can cause your facial muscles to sag, creating a prematurely aged look.
- Frequent dental pain: Ongoing tooth and gum pain might mean your teeth are beyond repair and need to be replaced.
A consultation with our denture specialist, Dr. Hart, can help determine if dentures are the right option for you or if another treatment would be more appropriate.
Ready to Smile with Confidence?
Your smile deserves expert care. Contact our trusted Chapel Hill professionals today to schedule.
Denture FAQs
How long does it take to get used to dentures?
It typically takes a few weeks to a few months for your mouth to adjust fully to new dentures. You may notice increased saliva production, minor sore spots, or difficulty speaking clearly during this time. As your mouth gets used to the appliance, these issues usually resolve on their own.
Does Medicare cover dentures?
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not usually cover dentures or routine dental care. However, some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may offer partial coverage for dentures and other dental services. It is best to review your specific plan or speak with a Medicare representative for detailed coverage information.
What are dentures made of?
Most dentures are made from acrylic, which is durable and mimics the appearance of natural gum tissue and teeth. Some partial dentures include metal components for added strength and stability, particularly where they fasten to your natural teeth. The materials used can vary depending on your specific dental needs and preferences.
How do you clean dentures?
Dentures should be cleaned daily to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria.
- Rinse them after eating to remove loose debris.
- Brush them gently using a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner (avoid regular toothpaste, as it can be too harsh).
- Soak them overnight in a denture-cleaning solution to keep them moist and sanitized.
- Rinse thoroughly before wearing them again.
- Don’t forget to brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth.
Caring for your dentures properly is essential to their performance. In addition to following the above cleaning routine, you should periodically bring them in for maintenance and exams so that Dr. Hart can make any needed repairs and reline them to ensure they remain comfortable and snug. If you have any questions about proper denture care, she can answer them at any appointment.
If you are tired of coping with missing teeth and would love to smile confidently again, call Studio G at Studio G Aesthetic & Family Dentistry Phone Number 919-942-7163 and schedule a consultation with Dr. Yarborough Hart to learn more about your denture options.