Dentures can be a suitable option to restore functionality and aesthetics to a smile that is missing all or many teeth. Crafted from attractive, durable materials, dentures closely mimic one’s natural teeth to create a full and functional smile. When you have dentures placed at OC Lifesmiles, you can trust that they will fit comfortably and look natural. Our team customizes each set to complement your facial features and bite for optimal results. With proper care, dentures can provide long-lasting comfort and help you smile with confidence.
- Denture Benefits
- Denture Candidates
- Types of Dentures
- Denture Procedure
- Denture Care
- Denture Longevity
- Denture Cost
- Additional Denture FAQs
What Are the Benefits of Dentures?
A full, beautiful smile can help you look and feel your very best, and traditional removable dentures typically provide the most cost-effective and conservative approach for achieving this goal. Whether you are missing many of your teeth, all of your teeth, or have a smile that is badly damaged by severe dental issues, dentures can be an effective solution for restoring a healthy, confident, and natural-looking appearance. Some of the many potential benefits of dentures from OC Lifesmiles include:
- Fully customizable to create a smile that suits and complements your appearance
- Crafted to fit your mouth and gums comfortably
- Made of high-quality, durable materials
- Manufactured by a trusted dental lab
- Enable you to once again smile with confidence
Who Is a Candidate for Dentures?
You may be a good candidate for dentures if you are missing several or all of your natural teeth and want to restore your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. Dentures are designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding gum tissue, making them an effective option for patients with significant tooth loss caused by decay, gum disease, or injury.
Ideal candidates should have healthy gum tissue and sufficient jawbone structure to support the dentures, although bone grafting or other treatments may be recommended if additional support is needed. Partial dentures may be suitable if you still have some healthy natural teeth, while full dentures are recommended for those missing an entire arch of teeth.
A consultation can help determine if dentures are right for you based on your oral health, lifestyle, and goals.
What Are the Different Types of Dentures?
Depending on the number of teeth missing, our Newport Beach dentist, John Cross, DDS, may suggest full or partial dentures, or an alternative denture option combined with other restorative treatments.
Full and Partial Dentures
Full dentures replace all of the missing teeth on one or both jaws. While it may take a few days to adjust to full dentures, they are comfortable and easy to wear. Partial dentures can also be crafted to fill in gaps between existing teeth.
Implant-Supported Dentures
In addition to traditional removable dentures, we also offer full-arch replacement options that are fixed in place with dental implants, which are called implant supported dentures or All-on-4® implant dentures. The right option for you will depend on a variety of factors, including the status of your dental and oral health, your cosmetic and functional goals, and your budget. Together with Dr. Cross, you will be able to explore all of your choices and select the customized treatment plan that is best suited to your needs.
What Can I Expect From the Fitting and Crafting Process For Dentures?
Dr. Cross will fit you for a set of dentures at our Orange County office. He will take impressions of your teeth and gums, and use these measurements to craft the design of your dentures. If you are interested in full dentures and still have some remaining teeth, those teeth will have to be extracted before your impressions are taken. Dr. Cross will explain the materials available for your dentures, discuss the aesthetic and comfort benefits of each option, and provide information about each material’s cost. Once all of the information has been gathered, it is sent over to a dental laboratory where your dentures are created.
Our practice works with a trusted laboratory to carefully and precisely manufacture your custom set of dentures. Once your dentures are ready, you will return to our office so Dr. Cross can check the fit and feel. We will make sure that you are fully satisfied with the color, shape, and appearance of your dentures before your appointment is over.
How Can I Properly Care For My Dentures?
If properly cared for, dentures can last for many years. When you receive your dentures, Dr. Cross will educate you on the proper way to clean, adhere, and maintain them. The precise instructions will depend on the material your dentures are crafted from, so it’s important to pay close attention to the directions Dr. Cross provides. Even though you may no longer have natural teeth, it is still important to make regularly scheduled dental appointments. It’s critical to check the status of your gum health and the fit of your dentures to prevent the development of problematic disease or discomfort.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
When crafted by a skilled dentist and cared for properly, dentures can last multiple years. Full dentures often have a longevity between 5 to 10 years, with partial dentures typically capable of lasting up to 15 years. Like natural teeth, dentures can experience wear and tear over time and may need to eventually be replaced.
There are multiple ways you can help keep your dentures in top condition, including:
- Maintaining a regular oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing
- Properly cleaning your dentures and never placing them in hot or boiling water
- Keeping up with dental appointments and cleanings
- Wearing a night guard if you clench or grind your teeth
How Much Do Dentures Cost?
The cost of dentures can vary for multiple reasons and contributing factors may include:
- The type of dentures being utilized
- How many teeth need to be replaced
- The materials used
Once your personalized treatment plan has been developed, you will receive a customized cost. Additionally, OC Lifesmiles offers payment and financing options to make the restorative solution more affordable.
Additional Denture Frequently Asked Questions
Does insurance cover dentures?
Dental insurance often provides partial coverage for dentures, but the extent depends on your specific plan. It’s important to review your insurance benefits or speak with your provider to understand your coverage details.
How often should dentures be replaced?
The need to replace dentures typically depends on wear, fit, and changes in your oral anatomy, with most lasting 5 to 7 years. Over time, natural bone and gum tissue can shift, causing dentures to become loose or uncomfortable. Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor the fit and condition of your dentures. With adjustments, relining, and proper maintenance, you may extend their lifespan, but significant changes in your mouth may require new dentures. Replacing them as recommended helps ensure optimal comfort, function, and a natural-looking smile.
Can I eat normally with dentures?
You can usually eat normally with dentures, though it may take some time to adjust. Begin with soft foods cut into small pieces, then gradually add firmer foods as you become more comfortable. Chew slowly and use both sides of your mouth to keep your dentures stable, and avoid sticky or hard foods that could damage or dislodge them. With practice and a proper fit, most patients can enjoy a wide variety of foods comfortably. Regular dental check-ups help ensure your dentures stay secure and function properly while eating.
For more information about dentures and the many implant-secured alternatives we offer, we encourage you to contact OC Lifesmiles to schedule a consultation with Dr. Cross.
