Dentures and Partial Dentures

Are dentures or the thought of dentures getting you down? Well it certainly shouldn't. Here at San Marcos CA dentist Dr. Leads office, it is our mission to give you your picture perfect smile. With the recent technology of dentures coming so far, Dr. Leads can replace damaged and/or worn dentures with the latest style to make you look and feel younger and more vibrant.

Dentures/Partial Dentures

A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Two types of dentures are available--complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain.

Complete Dentures

Complete dentures can be either "conventional" or "immediate." Made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has begun to heal, a conventional denture is ready for placement in the mouth about eight to 12 weeks after the teeth have been removed.

Unlike conventional dentures, immediate dentures are made in advance and can be positioned as soon as the teeth are removed. As a result, the wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. However, bones and gums shrink over time, especially during the healing period following tooth removal, so its important to speak with your doctor to make sure this is the best option for you. 

Partial Dentures

A removable partial denture or bridge usually consists of replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored plastic base, which is connected by metal framework that holds the denture in place in the mouth. Partial dentures are used when one or more natural teeth remain in the upper or lower jaw.

Do’s and Don’ts About Dental Adhesives

Dental adhesives may be helpful in securing dentures.

*Don’t use adhesives that contain zinc.  They may harm your body.

*Don’t use too much adhesive.  Three or four peas-sized drops of cream on each denture are usually enough.  If you are using powder, wet it with water, put a thin layer on the surface of the denture, and then shake off any extra.  In the case of pads, be sure to cut off any extra padding.

*Do hold the dentures in place for about 5 to 10 seconds.

*Do bite firmly to spread the adhesive.

*Do remove any extra adhesive that goes onto your cheek or tongue.

*Do remove all adhesive from dentures and from your mouth every day.

*Do contact San Marcos CA dentist Dr. Leads if you feel your dentures aren’t fitting correctly.  Don’t simply apply more adhesive.