Dentures
Milwaukie, OR
According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, more than 35 million Americans are missing all of their teeth in one or both arches. Full or partial dentures can help restore both the function and appearance of missing teeth. Dentures are removable prosthetics that replace one or more teeth. In some cases, they may also need to replace the supporting structures of the jawbone, which can require a larger denture. Restoring your smile and improving your quality of life can be a transformative experience.
At Sue Walker Dentistry, we are committed to guiding you through your journey to a healthy smile and providing the highest standard of care. While dentures are an effective option, other treatments may be preferable depending on your individual needs. Contact us today to learn which solution is right for you.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures can be either conventional or immediate. For conventional dentures, one or more teeth may need to be removed, and the gums require eight to 12 weeks to heal before the denture is created and fitted. Immediate dentures, on the other hand, can be made in advance and placed as soon as teeth are removed, allowing the wearer to avoid the period without teeth. However, because the gums and jawbone shrink after tooth loss, immediate dentures often require multiple adjustments during the healing process to ensure a proper fit. Complete dentures are typically made from gum-colored acrylic resin with teeth made of acrylic or porcelain. Porcelain teeth are more durable and resist wear, while acrylic teeth are lighter, easier to adjust, and bond more securely to the denture base. Both materials offer effective solutions depending on the wearer’s needs.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are designed to replace one or more missing teeth and can serve as an alternative to a dental bridge. The most common and aesthetically pleasing options are cast metal partials and flexible partial dentures. Cast metal partials consist of a gum-colored acrylic base with teeth made from acrylic or porcelain. Metal clasps attach to adjacent teeth to hold the denture securely in place, making them ideal for long-term use. Flexible partials use pink acrylic clasps attached to a flexible plastic material, offering a more natural appearance and comfortable fit. While partial dentures are durable, they can degrade, crack, or chip over time, and a damaged partial may need to be replaced.
Denture Considerations
Dentures are a reliable solution for replacing missing teeth, but alternatives like dental implants may also be considered. Dental implants can help preserve jawbone structure and may eliminate the need for dentures in certain cases. However, not all patients are eligible for implants due to variations in jaw anatomy or overall oral health. Choosing the right solution for your smile involves more than selecting the most convenient option.
At Sue Walker Dentistry, our dentist can evaluate your individual needs and recommend the treatment that will provide the best long-term results. Contact us at 971-447-4385 to discuss your options and start your journey toward a restored, healthy smile.