You’re not alone if you’re considering dentures. Millions of adults in the United States alone have dentures, and these dental appliances are becoming increasingly popular as people look for ways to restore their smiles. But what exactly are dentures, and what are the different types available? 

Whether you’re missing one tooth or all of them, dentures can restore the function and appearance of your smile. NewStart Denture + Implant Partners offers denture solutions in Raleigh, NC, that can restore your confidence. Call 919.822.9154 to learn more about denture solutions today. 

What Are Dentures? 

Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They’re custom-made in a dental laboratory from impressions taken of your mouth. Traditional dentures are supported by the underlying soft tissue and gums. Immediate dentures are placed in your mouth right after natural teeth are removed, and your gums heal under them. 

How Are They Made? 

Getting dentures usually takes several weeks and consists of multiple steps. First, you’ll need to have an oral examination and consultation with your dentist or prosthodontist to determine whether dentures fit you and which type best suits your needs. 

Next, impressions and measurements will be taken of your teeth and jaws to create a dental arch model. A dental laboratory will use this information to create your custom denture. A wax rim will then be placed on this model to check the fit, shape, color, and placement of the teeth in the denture base. The color of the gum tissue will also be matched so that it looks natural with your skin tone. 

You’ll be able to see what your denture will look like before it’s complete, and any necessary changes can be made at this time. Once you’re happy with its appearance, the final denture will be made from high-quality materials that look natural and feel comfortable in your mouth. 

Types of Dentures

There are two main types of dentures—complete and partial—each with its distinct benefits: 

• Complete dentures – These replace all the teeth in an arch, either the upper or lower jaw. They’re made up of an acrylic resin base that’s colored to match the gums, along with replacement teeth made from porcelain or plastic. Complete dentures can be either “conventional”—made after natural teeth have been removed—or “immediate” or placed in the mouth immediately following tooth extraction. 
• Partial dentures – Sometimes called “partial plates,” these replace one or more missing teeth but not all in an arch. Partial dentures usually consist of replacement teeth attached to pink or gum-colored plastic bases, connected by a metal framework that attaches to existing teeth with clasps, precision attachments, or tiny metal brackets bonded to existing teeth. 

Taking good care of your dentures is essential so that they last for many years. 

How to Care for Your Dentures 

Whether you have complete or partial dentures, you will benefit from following these tips on how to clean your dentures: 

• Remove and rinse dentures after eating  
• Clean your mouth after removing your dentures  
• Brush your dentures daily  
• Soak dentures overnight  
• Handle dentures with care 

Dentures can be a life-changing solution for those who have lost their natural teeth. They enhance the appearance of your smile and improve chewing, speech, and overall comfort. With proper care and regular visits to your dentist or prosthodontist, you can have a set of dentures that restore your confidence and let you live life to the fullest.  

Call NewStart Denture + Implant Partners to Inquire About Denture Solutions in Raleigh, NC 

Looking for dentures in Raleigh, North Carolina? The NewStart Denture + Implant Partners team is here to help. We offer a wide range of  solutions to suit your needs, and our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care. Contact our team online or call 919.822.9154 today to schedule a consultation.