Dentures

Tooth loss can significantly impact your daily routine and self-esteem, but there’s no need to face it alone. Dentures have been a reliable solution for generations, providing renewed function and confidence to those missing multiple or all of their teeth. At Hammons Family Dental, we proudly serve North Austin and Georgetown, Texas, offering quality dentures tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Whether you’re new to dentures or considering a replacement for an existing set, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

The Basics of Dentures

A denture is a removable prosthesis designed to replace missing teeth and the surrounding gum tissue. It restores not only appearance but also basic functions like chewing and speaking. Modern dentistry has significantly refined denture materials and techniques, making them more comfortable, stable, and natural-looking than ever before.

There are two primary types of dentures:

Full Dentures: Used when all the natural teeth in an arch (upper or lower) are missing or need extraction. They rest on the gum tissue and may rely on suction or denture adhesives for stabilization.
Partial Dentures: Ideal for those who still retain some healthy natural teeth. A partial denture fills the gaps with artificial teeth, anchoring to neighboring teeth with metal clasps or precision attachments.

Why Consider Dentures?

Restore Chewing Ability: Being able to enjoy a variety of foods is crucial for balanced nutrition and overall well-being.
Support Facial Muscles: Dentures can help maintain the shape of your face, preventing the sunken or collapsed look often associated with tooth loss.

Boost Confidence: A full set of teeth can greatly improve your self-image, encouraging you to engage more comfortably in social and professional settings.
Enhance Speech: Missing teeth can affect pronunciation; dentures help you speak clearly.

The Denture-Making Process

Initial Examination: We begin with a thorough evaluation, which may include digital X-rays to check jawbone health. We’ll discuss your goals and budget, as well as whether other restorative options—like implants—might be more suitable.
Impressions and Measurements: We take precise molds or digital scans of your mouth to capture the unique contours of your gums and any remaining teeth.
Fitting Sessions: Depending on the complexity of your case, you may have several “try-in” appointments. We’ll check the denture’s fit, bite, and appearance, making adjustments to optimize comfort and aesthetics.
Final Fabrication: Skilled dental technicians craft the dentures using durable, lifelike materials. We carefully select the shape, size, and color of the artificial teeth to complement your facial features.
Placement and Adjustments: Once the final dentures are ready, we fit them and make any fine-tuning adjustments. Follow-up visits allow us to address any pressure points or discomfort as you adapt to wearing dentures.

Immediate Dentures

For those requiring extractions of remaining teeth, immediate dentures can be placed the same day as the extraction, so you never go without teeth. However, because gums shrink during the healing process, immediate dentures often require relining or adjustments several months later to ensure a snug fit

Adapting to Your New Dentures

It’s normal to experience an adjustment period when you first start wearing dentures. Common issues may include:

Initial Discomfort: Mild soreness or irritation is common as your gums adapt.
Difficulty Chewing: Start with soft foods and gradually introduce firmer textures. Cut foods into small pieces to ease the transition.
Speech Changes: Practice speaking at home, reading aloud, or talking with friends to become more comfortable.

These challenges typically subside as you grow accustomed to the dentures. We’re always here to provide support or adjustments if you experience ongoing discomfort.

Caring for Your Dentures

Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of your dentures and protect your overall oral health:

Daily Cleaning: Use a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleanser to remove food debris and plaque. Avoid regular toothpaste, which can be too abrasive.
Soak Overnight: Dentures need to remain moist to retain their shape. Soak them in water or a denture-cleaning solution while you sleep.
Gum Care: Even without natural teeth, you should gently clean your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth. This promotes healthy oral tissues and prevents bad breath.
Regular Checkups: Over time, gum tissue and jawbone can change, affecting denture fit. Periodic checkups at Hammons Family Dental allow for relining or other adjustments to maintain comfort and stability.

When to Consider a Denture Reline or Replacement

Dentures are not a one-time, permanent fix. Changes in your mouth—such as bone resorption—can lead to a loose or uncomfortable fit. A reline involves reshaping the underside of the denture to conform to your evolving gum contours. If the denture’s teeth or acrylic base show significant wear or damage, a replacement may be necessary. We generally recommend a replacement every 5-7 years to ensure optimal function and aesthetics.

The Hammons Family Dental Commitment

Choosing to get dentures is a significant decision, and our team is here to make the journey as smooth as possible. At Hammons Family Dental, you’ll find:

Expert Guidance: We walk you through each step, ensuring you understand all your options and what to expect.
High-Quality Materials: Our dentures are fabricated from durable, lifelike materials that enhance both function and appearance.
Personalized Care: We take into account your facial structure, lifestyle, and budget, customizing your treatment plan for the best outcome.
Ongoing Support: From initial placement to maintenance and potential relines, we’re committed to your long-term comfort and satisfaction.

Our convenient location allows us to serve patients from North Austin to Georgetown, minimizing travel time and making follow-up visits more manageable. We also offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your busy life.

Discover Your Smile’s Potential

No one should feel limited by missing teeth. Dentures can be a transformative solution, returning the joys of a complete smile and the ability to speak and chew without worry. If you’re exploring the possibility of dentures—or if you’re unhappy with your current set—consider a consultation at Hammons Family Dental. Together, we’ll evaluate your needs and find the right type of denture to enhance your quality of life.

Reach out today to schedule an appointment. Whether you’re curious about full dentures, partials, or immediate dentures, our knowledgeable team is here to answer your questions and guide you toward a beautiful, functional smile you can rely on.

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At Hammons Family Dental, we make it easy for you to enjoy optimal oral health.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us today.