Dentures

Parker Colorado DenturesLosing some or all of your teeth affects your ability to chew foods, present a beautiful smile to friends, and pronounce many words.  But with today’s advances in dentistry, these challenges do not have to be forever.  Dentures come in many different configurations to help you replace the teeth you are missing. Dr. Evanson can create natural-looking appliances that fit your gums snugly, preventing the wiggling and loose grip often associated with dentures. Our team at Evanson DDS in Parker, Colorado, is dedicated to helping you achieve the smile that you desire and will work with you to create the best treatment plan for your particular dental needs.

At Evanson DDS, we offer many options for replacing missing teeth, including dentures, dental bridges, and dental implants.  During your consultation with us, we will talk to you about your goals for replacing your missing teeth and discuss your overall dental health. Together we can discover a solution that fits your budget, lifestyle and goals for dental wellness.

What Are the Consequences of Missing Teeth

Missing teeth in your mouth is more than just how it affects your appearance.  You may begin to suffer from serious challenges when you have lost one or more teeth such as:

  • Difficulty chewing and eating
  • Shifting of other teeth
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Changes in facial appearance
  • Stress on other teeth
  • Malnutrition

Dentures can boost your self-confidence by helping you have a smile that you are proud of and increase the quality of your life by improving your overall health and lifestyle.

What Types of Dentures Are Available?

Today, there are three main categories of dentures that you can receive depending on your particular needs:

  • Partial Dentures.  This type of denture scenario is fastened by clasps that anchor the partial to your adjacent teeth. A partial denture is used to replace one or more teeth, but less than an entire arch.
  • Full Dentures.  As the name implies, full dentures replace an entire set of teeth such as all your upper teeth or all your lower teeth. They are customized replacement teeth that improve your smile, your bite, and facial appearance.  Upper full dentures are secured by the suction created between the denture and the roof of your mouth. Lower full dentures rest on the gums and are held in place by their fit over the gums and jawbone.
  • Implant-Secured Dentures.  These dentures are removable like traditional dentures, but they are held firmly in place by two or more dental implants.  This category of denture is often preferred because it provides improved function,  puts less stress on adjacent teeth, and is less likely to slip than traditional dentures.

How Can Dentures Replace A Few Missing Teeth?

If an accident or issue like gum disease has caused the loss of two or more teeth in one area of the jaw, a partial denture is the easiest way to fill in the gap. These fixtures are removable for cleaning, unlike fixed crowns and bridges.

Does Dental Insurance Cover the Cost of Dentures?

Most dental insurance providers cover some or all of the cost of dentures. However, contact your company to find out the specifics of what they will cover.  When you have your consultation a member of our financial and insurance team will help you understand what fees you will be responsible for and can help you set up a payment plan if needed.

How Does The Dentist Create Dentures?

The dentures themselves are fabricated in a laboratory from durable and realistic acrylic resins. The entire process starts with multiple, different impressions taken by Dr. Evanson. Basic impressions are taken first, which are then made into custom fitting trays to capture the tiniest details of your gums and jaws. These molds allow technicians to create dentures that fit tightly without chafing or irritating the sensitive gum tissue.

How Often Do Dentures Need to Be Replaced?

Dentures will typically need to be replaced every five to 10 years. Patients find that the fit of their dentures changes over the years as their jaw bone shrinks. Since it is normal for your mouth to change and denture teeth to wear down, have them checked during a yearly dental visit.

What Foods Should Be Avoided With Dentures?

Many people put off investing in dentures because they are afraid they will not be able to eat their favorite foods. However, properly fitted dentures can handle nearly every chewy or tough food if you apply adhesives. It may be tricky to eat a few foods that require extensive biting power, such as corn on the cob. You can still enjoy these foods by cutting the corn from the cob or slicing crisp apples up before eating. Small pieces of chewy foods like steak are usually easier to handle than large chunks.

Will It Be Obvious That I Am Wearing Dentures?

There is a short acclimation period that comes with wearing dentures for the first time. Once you have had a few weeks to practice speaking and chewing with your new teeth, there are usually no outward signs you are wearing dentures. The materials used for the teeth and gums look extremely realistic. Partial dentures are even harder to detect, especially if they are replacing molars or other less visible teeth.

What Do I Do If My Dentures Are Causing Sores?

It is not unusual for a new denture to create sore spots on your gums, especially right after you get them as your mouth adjusts to them. New dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them. The dentures may feel loose while the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place. It is not unusual to experience minor irritation or soreness. You may find that saliva flow temporarily increases. As your mouth becomes accustomed to the dentures, these problems should go away. Follow-up appointments with Dr. Evanson are generally needed after a denture is inserted so the fit can be checked and adjusted. If any problem persists, particularly irritation or soreness, be sure to consult a member of our Evanson DDS team.  Adjustments help eliminate sore spots and get you back to not even noticing that they are there.

How Do I Care For My Dentures?

Dr. Evanson and our team at Evanson DDS will show exactly how to care for your dentures before you leave our office. Dentures still need to be brushed and cleaned to keep your mouth healthy. We will advise you on cleaning techniques for the appliance and tips for keeping your gums clean and healthy.

Even if you have lost all or some of your natural teeth, you should still visit your our office every six months. The Dr. Evanson will be able to evaluate the fit of your denture, offer suggestions for denture care and hygiene, and check for issues that may arise, such as oral cancer.

Call for a Consultation

If you would like to learn more about dentures, contact Evanson DDS in Parker, Colorado, for your consultation. During your visit, we will answer any questions you may have and provide expert recommendations on how you can reach all of your smile goals.  Dr. Evanson is highly skilled and trained to provide a variety of dental services. Her office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure you receive the best possible care.  We believe nothing exudes beauty and confidence like a bright, vibrant smile, and that everyone deserves to experience the life-altering benefits of a radiant, healthy smile.  Dr. Evanson is a family dentist in Parker, Colorado, with convenient access to the communities of Highlands Ranch, Aurora, Castle Rock and Lone Tree.