Complete and partial dentures are great options for replacing missing teeth. These restorative dentistry options can improve how you eat and speak. Dr. John Slate, a trusted dentist in Washington, DC, offers custom solutions to meet your needs. He provides dentures in the Washington, DC area to replace missing teeth and give patients their smiles back.
Benefits of Restoring Multiple Missing Teeth
Whether you have rows of missing teeth or all your teeth missing, replacing your teeth with a restoration like dentures can make a big impact on your everyday life. The benefits of dentures in Washington, DC include:
Better Bite Function
When you don’t have enough teeth for a full bite, it can be difficult to bite into hard or crunchy foods. You may avoids foods like apples, carrots, or steak. This can affect your nutrition and overall health. Replacing missing teeth helps restore your bite, making it easier to chew your food comfortably and enjoy the meals you love again.
Improved Facial Aesthetics
Dentures and other tooth replacements also help support your facial structure. When you lose teeth, your jawbone can shrink.
Without support from your tooth roots, your face can sag. Facial sagging can make your face look sunken or older. Replacing those teeth helps keep your face look natural and gives it structure.
Confidence Boost
Another benefit is that restoring your smile can boost your confidence. When you feel good about how your smile looks, you’re more likely to smile and speak up in social situations. We can replace front teeth so you can smile again.
Complete and Partial Dentures in Washington, DC
Dentures come in two main types. Complete dentures are for people who have lost all their teeth. These fit directly over the gums and are easy to remove for cleaning. They help restore the appearance of a full set of teeth and improve your ability to chew.
Partial dentures are for those who still have some healthy natural teeth. They fill gaps and prevent remaining teeth from moving out of place. Partials often attach to your natural teeth using metal clasps or other secure fittings to help them stay in position.
Removable vs. Implant Dentures
Removable dentures are a common way to replace missing teeth. They sit on top of your gums and can be taken out for cleaning. However, some people find that removable dentures can slip out of place or cause sore spots on the gums. These problems are usually fixed with small adjustments by your dentist.
As you get older, the shape of your gums and jawbone can change. This may cause your dentures to feel loose or uncomfortable. When this happens, your dentures may need to be relined or even replaced to improve the fit.
Dr. Slate also offers implant-supported dentures as a more stable option. These dentures are attached to dental implants, which are small metal posts placed into the jawbone. Implant dentures stay firmly in place when you talk, eat, or smile. They feel more natural and secure than regular dentures, and they help keep the jawbone strong over time. If you’re looking for a long-lasting solution, implant-supported dentures may be a great choice for you.
The Denture Process
The process begins with a consultation with Dr. Slate. During the visit, he will examine your mouth and take detailed measurements. This includes X-rays and impressions to ensure your new dentures will fit perfectly.
After gathering the details, he sends a plan to our dental lab where they will craft the custom dentures. Once they are ready, you will return to the office to have them fitted. Dr. Slate will make any adjustments he needs to ensure comfort. Follow-up visits are also important to keep your oral health on track and ensure the dentures continue to fit well over time.
Wearing dentures for the first time takes some adjusting to. You may feel awkward when eating or speaking, but this improves with practice. Start with softer foods and gradually work up to harder items. Practice speaking aloud to adjust to how your dentures feel in your mouth.
Some minor irritation is normal at first, but this should fade as your mouth adapts. If discomfort continues, Dr. Slate can make adjustments to improve the fit. Regular check-ups will help ensure you remain comfortable.
Implant Dentures in Washington, DC
If you want the stability of dental implants, you can get your new teeth over several visits. First, you’ll meet with Dr. Slate for a full dental exam. He’ll look at your gums, jawbone, and any remaining teeth to see if implant dentures are right for you.
If you’re a good candidate, Dr. Slate will create a custom treatment plan from X-rays and 3-D images of your mouth. He’ll decide how many implants you need and where they’ll go in your mouth. He’ll also talk about whether you need to have any teeth removed or if you need a bone graft to support the implants.
Next, Dr. Slate will place the dental implants into your jawbone and provide temporary dentures to wear while your implants heal. Healing usually takes a few months, during which the implants bond with your bone. Dr. Slate will then place abutments to connect the posts to your denture. Once your implants have fully healed, we’ll attach your custom-made denture.
Denture Care and Maintenance
Maintaining your dentures and partials after treamtent in our Washington, DC office will ensure your restorations last.
Removable Dentures
Removable dentures should be cleaned every day to remove food particles and bacteria. Use a soft toothbrush or denture brush and a denture cleaner. Gently brush all surfaces of your dentures. When you’re not wearing your dentures, place them in a glass of water or a denture soaking solution to keep them from drying out or losing their shape.
Handle your dentures carefully to avoid dropping or damaging them. If you notice any cracks, discomfort, or if they don’t fit properly anymore, call Dr. Slate for an adjustment or repair.
Implant Dentures
Implant-supported dentures are more secure, but they still need regular care. Brush your implant dentures and clean around the implant posts every day using a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or cleaner. You may also use special brushes or floss made for cleaning around implants.
Cost and Payment Options
The cost of dentures depends on the materials used and the complexity of your needs. Some insurance plans may cover part of the cost. Dr. Slate also offers payment options to make treatment more affordable.
Schedule a Denture Consultation
Dentures and partials are a reliable way to improve your oral health and your quality of life. Dr. Slate is here to guide you through the process and provide care you can trust. Contact our Washington, DC, office today at (425) 584-3751 to learn more or schedule an appointment online.