If you are missing a full arch of teeth, you do not have to remain edentulous or suffer from a poorly fitted removable denture. Missing teeth can have a severe impact on your cosmetic appearance and your quality of life. The more teeth that are missing, the more likely this will affect your normal speaking and eating patterns. Lost teeth make it difficult to pronounce words correctly or chew thoroughly.
Our Gaithersburg MD dentist office is equipped to provide cosmetic dentures and partials to patients missing a full arch of teeth. With the help of our experienced restorative dentists, our patients can enjoy a beautiful new smile and a restored quality of life with our custom-made dentures and partials. Learn more below.
Dentures & Partials in Gaithersburg, MD
Dr. Steven Anolik and Dr. Corey Anolik are experienced restorative dentists in Gaithersburg, MD. They have the skills needed to restore your smile with dentures and partials. Traditional dentures are removable substitutes for lost teeth, used when patients are missing a full arch or all their natural teeth.
Partial dentures replace only a few missing teeth here or there to eliminate gaps left behind after tooth loss- similar to a dental bridge. Each person’s smile is different and will require a custom treatment plan. Our doctors will consult with you and evaluate your smile to help you determine which tooth replacement option is best for you and your dental health.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Our office strives to bring the benefits of modern dentistry to all our patients. Because of this mission, we are excited to be able to offer you implant-supported dentures. With the structural soundness of a few strategically placed dental implants, we can anchor your dentures into your mouth for more comfortable everyday use. Patients love implant-supported dentures because they do not slip and slide around their mouths while in use.
For implant-supported dentures, patients will need to undergo a dental implant procedure. The dental implants are surgically inserted beneath your soft tissues and allowed to fuse together with your jawbone over time. Once fully healed, those implants will hold your dentures firmly in place and allow you to utilize your smile just as you would naturally.
Traditional Vs. Implant Dentures
Traditional and implant-supported dentures offer valuable solutions when it comes to replacing missing teeth. However, these options differ significantly in terms of comfort, stability, maintenance, and long-term benefits.
Comfort and Fit
One key difference between traditional dentures and implant-supported dentures is how they fit in your mouth. Traditional dentures are removable appliances that rest directly on your gums. They are held in place by suction or dental adhesive.
While customized to fit your mouth, traditional dentures can sometimes shift or slip when you talk or eat. This movement can cause discomfort or sore spots on the gums, and it may take time to get used to wearing them.
On the other hand, implant-supported dentures are anchored to titanium posts surgically placed into your jawbone. These implants act as tooth roots. They provide a much more stable base for your dentures.
Implant dentures don’t slip or move for a more natural and secure fit. Because they are fixed in place, they generally feel more comfortable. You don’t have to worry about them moving when you eat or speak.
Stability and Function
Stability is another major factor to consider when comparing traditional and implant-supported dentures. Traditional dentures can shift or even fall out while you eat or talk, which can be inconvenient and embarrassing. This lack of stability may also limit your ability to eat certain foods, like crunchy or sticky items, as they could cause the dentures to move out of place.
Implant-supported dentures, however, are extremely stable. Since they are attached to implants integrated with your jawbone, they function like natural teeth. You can enjoy a wider variety of foods because you can chew and digest food properly, an essential benefit for overall health.
Bone Preservation
One of the most significant advantages of implant-supported dentures over traditional dentures is their ability to preserve jawbone health. When you lose teeth, the jawbone begins to shrink because it no longer receives stimulation from tooth roots. Traditional dentures rest on the gums and do not stimulate the bone. Over time, this can lead to bone loss. Your face can take on a sunken appearance and affect the fit of your dentures.
Implant-supported dentures, however, help prevent bone loss. The implants act like natural tooth roots. They stimulate the jawbone and encourage it to maintain strength and density. This bone preservation helps keep your face looking fuller and more youthful and can also prevent the need for future adjustments to your dentures.
Maintenance and Longevity
In terms of maintenance, traditional dentures require regular removal for cleaning and should be soaked overnight. They must also be replaced every 5 to 7 years due to wear and changes in your mouth’s shape. Over time, as your jawbone shrinks, traditional dentures may become loose and require adjustments or relining to maintain a good fit.
Implant-supported dentures are generally easier to maintain. Some are fixed in place and only need regular brushing and dental visits, while others are removable but still more stable than traditional options. Because implants support them, these dentures are less likely to need frequent adjustments.
The implants themselves can last a lifetime with proper care. Implant dentures tend to last longer, often ten years or more, before they need replacement.
Cost and Time Commitment
Traditional dentures are usually more affordable upfront and can be created and fitted in a relatively short amount of time. This makes them a good option for individuals who need a quick solution to replace missing teeth. However, the long-term costs of replacing and adjusting traditional dentures can add up over time.
Implant-supported dentures are more expensive initially and require surgery to place the implants. The process can take several months, as the implants need time to fuse with the jawbone before the dentures can be attached. While this may seem like a significant investment, many people find the long-term benefits worth the extra time and cost.
Dentures FAQs
We have answers to some commonly asked questions about Gaithersburg dentures and partials:
How many teeth do you need for a partial denture?
Partial dentures can replace one tooth or several. There’s no strict minimum. The key is having enough healthy teeth to support the denture. Usually, you need at least two strong teeth on each side of the gap. Dr. Corey will examine your mouth’s structure and remaining teeth.
Do dentures prevent bone loss?
Dentures don’t prevent bone loss because they don’t stimulate the jawbone like natural teeth. When you lose teeth, the lack of stimulation can cause the jawbone to shrink over time. This leads to bone loss.
While dentures help with chewing and appearance, they don’t address the underlying issue of bone preservation. Dental implants are a better option if you want to prevent bone loss. Implants function like natural tooth roots.
Can I sleep with partial dentures in your mouth?
Remove partial dentures at night. Your mouth needs a break. Sleeping with dentures can increase bacteria growth and irritate gums. It might also speed up bone loss.
Take them out before bed and soak them in a cleaning solution. This routine helps maintain oral health and extends the life of your dentures. You can put them back in after you brush your teeth in the morning.
Will dentures look like your old teeth?
Dentures can resemble your old teeth, because they are customized to match your natural appearance. Dentists work with you to choose the dentures’ shape, size, and color. While they might not be an exact match, modern dentures can look very natural and give you a familiar and comfortable smile.
Will implant dentures affect my ability to taste food?
Implant dentures are unlikely to affect your ability to taste food. Unlike traditional dentures that sit on your gums, we attach these dentures to implants placed in your jawbone. This means they stay in place better and don’t cover the roof of your mouth, which is the part of your mouth that plays a big role in how food tastes.
Because implant dentures don’t cover your palate (the roof of your mouth), they won’t block the taste receptors. This means you can taste your food just as you did before. It might take a little time to adjust to the feel of the dentures, but it should not impact your ability to enjoy flavors.
How soon after extraction can I get dentures?
You can usually get dentures 3 to 6 months after tooth extraction. This waiting period allows your gums and jawbone to heal properly for a better fit. However, in some cases, you can get “immediate dentures” right after the extraction. However, you may need adjustments as your mouth heals. We will recommend the best timing based on your situation and needs.
Will implant dentures affect how I speak?
Implant dentures can improve how you speak. Unlike traditional dentures, which might slip or move in your mouth, implant dentures are securely attached to dental implants. This stability helps you pronounce words more clearly and confidently.
At first, you might need a little time to get used to speaking with implant dentures, especially if you’ve been without teeth for a while. You can practice reading out loud or talk in front of a mirror. If you experience any issues, let your dentist know—they can make adjustments to ensure your dentures fit comfortably and work well.
Does dental insurance cover dentures?
Most insurance plans offer some coverage for dentures. It’s often around 50% of the cost. Coverage varies by plan and provider. There might also be waiting periods or annual limits. Some plans distinguish between partial and full dentures.
Check your policy details or call your insurance company. Our dental office can also help you understand your benefits and potential out-of-pocket costs.
Schedule An Appointment
If you are ready to learn more about your tooth replacement options, we hope you will visit TotallySmiles in Gaithersburg, MD. Our dental professionals are committed to the highest standard of care for your dental health needs. They are dedicated to an exceptional patient experience.
Schedule an appointment online today, or call 301-701-5861 if you have any questions about our options.