Dentures & Partial Dentures - Kilgore, Tx
Dentures are a great option for those who are missing some or all of their teeth. This dental appliance is designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue, giving you a natural-looking smile. At Silvertooth Family Dental in Kilgore, TX, we offer both dentures and partial dentures to our patients.
Dentures are removable dental appliances that are made to closely resemble your natural teeth. They can help improve your smile, allowing you to speak, eat, and smile with confidence. There are two types of dentures - complete and partial dentures.
There are two types of dentures - complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth but also prevents other teeth from shifting.
A complete denture may be either “conventional” or “immediate.” A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, usually taking 4 to 6 weeks. During this time, the patient will go without teeth. Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process. Once the tissues shrink and heal, Silvertooth Family Dental will make adjustments.
Dentures are durable appliances that will last many years but may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.
Why would you need partial dentures?
Many people think partial dentures are only for people who lost all their teeth. A partial denture can fill gaps caused by missing teeth. This appliance is attached to your natural teeth using metal clasps or precision attachments.
Occasionally, dental implants may attach a partial denture to your teeth. A partial denture not only fills in the gaps left by missing teeth but also helps prevent the remaining natural teeth from shifting out of position. Some factors that contribute to teeth loss include:
- Poor dental hygiene
- Periodontal disease
- Tooth decay
- Trauma - Genetics
If you think you may need a partial denture, schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss the best treatment option for you.
Types of dentures
We can use different materials and manufacturing techniques to make dentures. The type of denture you need will be based on several factors, including:
Location in your mouth
The location of your missing tooth (or teeth) will help to determine the type of partial denture you need. For example, anterior teeth (those at the front of your mouth) are usually replaced with a removable partial denture that attaches to your natural teeth. A posterior tooth (one towards the back of your mouth) is usually replaced with a fixed partial denture attached to dental implants.
Posterior dentures can help in eating and speaking
Number of teeth on the dentures
Another factor that will influence the type of denture you require is your number of teeth. Dentures can be designed to replace either a few or all of your teeth. If you are only missing a few teeth, then you may be able to get away with what is known as a partial denture.
This type of denture fills in the gaps left by your missing teeth and is usually held in place by metal clasps that attach to your remaining natural teeth.
You will need a full denture if you miss all of your teeth. Full dentures are designed to replace all teeth in your upper or lower jaw. The number of teeth on your denture will also affect the price.
Materials used
As mentioned previously, dentures can be made from different materials. The most common type of denture is made from acrylic, a strong but lightweight plastic. This type of denture is usually the cheapest option.
Another material that we can use to make dentures is porcelain. Porcelain dentures are more expensive than acrylic dentures, but they are also more durable and look more like natural teeth.
Dentures can also be made from different materials, such as plastic and metal. These types of dentures are usually the most expensive but also the strongest and most durable.
How long does it take to get used to dentures?
It is not uncommon to get used to wearing 
dentures for a few weeks (or even longer). You may initially find it difficult to speak and eat with your new dentures. However, with time and practice, you will get used to them and eventually be able to talk and eat as you did before.
If you have difficulty adjusting to your dentures, talk to your dentist about what you can do to make the transition easier. They may be able to give you some tips and advice on how to get used to wearing dentures.
How long do dentures last?
With proper care and maintenance, dentures can last for many years. However, over time they may need to be relined, rebased, or even replaced. The lifespan of your dentures will depend on several factors, including the quality of the dentures and how well you take care of them.
What does getting dentures involve?
The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, usually over several weeks. Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture. Several “try-in” appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and fit. Your dentist will precisely adjust and place the completed denture at the final appointment, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit.
It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulty. However, this will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures.
You will be given care instructions for your new dentures. Proper cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new dentures.
At Silvertooth Family Dental, we understand that getting dentures can be a big decision. That’s why we take the time to answer all of your questions and help you choose the best option for your individual needs.
Overall, dentures and partial dentures can be a great option for those with missing teeth. They can restore your smile and your confidence, and they can help you eat and speak more comfortably.
If you're considering dentures or partial dentures, be sure to talk to your dentist at Silvertooth Family Dental in Kilgore, TX to learn more about your options. Contact us today!
Get In Touch
We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.