Dentures & Partials in Boise, Idaho
Replace Missing Teeth With Dentures
For patients missing one or more of their teeth, Scott E. Hayhurst Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Boise, ID offers full and partial dentures to bring functionality back to their mouths. Dentures have long been associated with older patients, but they are a very effective solution to replace missing teeth no matter your age. If you suffer tooth loss from a traumatic accident or due to health reasons, our practice will fit you with dentures to match your real teeth and mouth and provide reliable function.
Who Is a Candidate for Dentures?
Patients who are missing teeth have a few options to consider, including implants and dentures. Dentures are a removable appliance that replace missing teeth as well as some of the gum tissue. A dental implant must be fastened directly to the jaw bone. Therefore, patients who have bone and gum loss are better candidates for dentures since they lack the bone structure and gum tissue required for a dental implant.
The Different Types of Dentures
Dentures are available to fill various patient needs. Some, usually older patients, have bone deterioration to the degree that they can no longer support any real teeth. Other patients may find they only need a few teeth or as little as one tooth replaced. In either case, we have a solution for any patient requiring dentures.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures are applied to dental patients who are missing all of their teeth. Conventional dentures are made and placed in the mouth about eight to 12 weeks after all of the teeth have been removed. Immediate dentures are made in advance of teeth removal and are placed right away.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures, also known as a bridge, are used to replace only a few missing teeth. They are attached to a pinkish or gum-colored plastic base to help keep the denture in place.
The Benefits of Dentures
Just like real teeth, dentures require regular daily care to keep them clean and healthy. Patients may take a little time to get used to their new dentures, but they will enjoy the same great functionality as their real teeth once they do. Other benefits of dentures include:
- Dentures are less expensive than implants
- They don’t require any anchoring
- It’s a non-invasive procedure, and there is no drilling
- The process to measure, fit, and make dentures is relatively quick
Speak With a Boise Dentist About Dentures
Dentures are an efficient and affordable tooth replacement option for patients who lack the bone structure for permanent implants. Scott E. Hayhurst Family and Cosmetic Dentistry provides patients with custom-fitted dentures that will improve their ability to chew, speak, and smile. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for full or partial dentures.
What Is a Partial Denture, and How Long Does It Last?
A partial denture is a removable dental appliance that replaces multiple missing teeth in your upper or lower jaw. It consists of prosthetic teeth made of a natural-looking composite material, a metal or acrylic framework that supports the artificial teeth, and clasps or attachments that secure the dentures to your natural teeth. The lifespan of your partial dentures depends on the materials used, your overall oral and physical health, your oral hygiene, and your lifestyle. Most partial dentures last between 5-10 years.
Choosing Between Fixed Dentures and Flexible Partial Dentures
We can help you make an informed decision about whether fixed dentures or partial dentures are right for you. We will help you consider a variety of factors, including:
- Your Lifestyle and Oral Health – Fixed dentures are easier to maintain, as you can brush and floss as you would with natural teeth. They are also strong and durable. However, they require more invasive preparation, as we will need to grind down some of your natural teeth to create space for the dental crowns that will anchor the dentures in place. If your mouth changes over time, fixed dentures are less adaptable. Partial dentures are allergy-friendly, but have a shorter lifespan, are less durable, and have a greater risk of bacteria buildup that could affect your oral health.
- Your Budget – Partial dentures are often more affordable than fixed dentures, so if you are on a tight budget, they may be the better choice.
- Aesthetic and Personal Preferences – Partial dentures are known for being soft, pliable, and comfortable. However, they have a shorter lifespan, are not as stable, and may not look as natural as fixed dentures. Fixed dentures offer a long-term solution to missing teeth, and are more secure and stable. They may feel and look more like natural teeth.
The Fabrication Process for Partial Dental Dentures
You will need several visits to completely fabricate and fit your dentures. We will do a comprehensive dental exam to make sure you’re a good candidate for partial dentures. Then we will take dental impressions, which we will send to the dental laboratory. There, technicians will design the framework for your dentures, cast it, and create a wax trial denture with temporary teeth. They will send that to us to have you try out. We will check the fit, comfort, and bite and make any necessary adjustments. Then we will send it back to the dental lab, where they will make the final dentures. Those will be sent to us for a final fitting. We will then give you personalized instructions on proper oral hygiene, care, and maintenance.
How to Care for Removable Partial Dentures
It’s important to properly care for your removable partial denture to extend its lifespan and maintain your oral health. Follow these tips for partial denture care and maintenance:
- Brush your dentures twice daily with a soft-bristled denture brush.
- Clean your dentures daily with a denture cleaner.
- Handle your dentures with care.
- Wear a mouth guard as recommended when playing sports.
- Use an ultrasonic denture cleaner for tough stains or to remove buildup.
- Store your dentures in a storage container with denture cleaner solution overnight or when they are not in use.
- Rinse dentures thoroughly before putting them in your mouth after soaking or storage.
- Visit us every six months for an oral exam and to check the fit and condition of your dentures.
- Contact us right away if your dentures are damaged, if you notice signs of wear and tear, or if you are experiencing discomfort.