Tooth loss is a common problem among American adults. According to the CDC, more than 65% of adults ages 40 to 64 are missing at least one tooth. Nearly 20% of all adults over the age of 65 are completely edentulous (missing all of their teeth).
Although tooth loss can be an embarrassing situation and can deeply impact your quality of life, we want you to know that if you are missing several or all of your teeth, you are certainly not alone. We also want you to know that we offer solutions to restore your smile.
Today’s Modern Dentures
Modern dentures are designed to fit well and look natural. Chances are good that you already know someone who wears dentures and they look so natural that you never even suspected it!
Matt Ebert, DDS, has great skill when it comes to designing beautiful dentures that complement your features and your complexion. Each tooth is individually designed, and the lab crafts and places teeth in such a way that they look incredibly lifelike.
Your new teeth will be set into a base that fits comfortably over your gums and is held in place using suction. Partial dentures, which are designed to replace a few teeth, fit into a base that clips around your healthy teeth. If you want added stability and security, we can discuss dentures that clip into dental implants.
Caring for Your Dentures
Dentures and partials are removable appliances, which means that they do require a bit of extra care. Although your appliance won’t decay in the same way natural teeth do, it can accumulate plaque and bacteria, so daily cleaning is important to avoid bad odors.
Dr. Ebert can recommend specific products for cleaning your dentures. Avoid using a regular toothbrush or toothpaste. These products can be abrasive and damage the finish on your dentures. Brushes and cleansers designed specifically for dentures will protect and prolong the life of your dentures.
Dentures should be kept moist any time they are not in the mouth, and they should be washed using cool or lukewarm water. When dentures are allowed to become dry or are exposed to hot water, the plastic can warp, changing the fit and leading to discomfort and sores on the gums.
Additionally, it’s important to protect your dentures from falls. If you do happen to drop your dentures or you suspect damage for any other reason, please bring your dentures in so that Dr. Ebert can inspect them. Damage to dentures may not be immediately obvious, but it can still affect the way the denture fits.
Is It Time to Discuss Dentures?
Whether it’s time for your first set of dentures or you’d like to replace old dentures with a new, more modern set, call Brigham Dental Care today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Ebert. We can’t wait to restore your smile and your quality of life.