Missing teeth can impact your confidence, chewing ability, and overall oral health. If you’re looking for a solution to restore your smile, getting dentures at our dental practice near Oxford could be the answer. According to the Oral Health Foundation, 19% of the population wears some form of denture (from a study of 19 countries). That’s nearly one in five. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about dentures, from what they are to how to care for them.
What are dentures?
Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They can be full or partial, depending on the extent of tooth loss. Full dentures replace all teeth in an upper or lower jaw, while partial dentures fill gaps left by missing teeth while preserving your remaining natural teeth. When looking for a dentist in Oxford for your denture needs, it is important to find a clinic experienced in crafting bespoke dentures. Our team has years of experience providing outstanding dental care to patients in Kidlington and the surrounding areas. You can book a consultation with us to see how we can help you.
When should I get dentures?
You might consider dentures if you:
- Have lost multiple teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury.
- Experience difficulty chewing or speaking.
- Feel self-conscious about gaps in your smile.
- Are looking for a cost-effective tooth replacement option?
If you’re unsure whether dentures are right for you, consult our Oxford dentist for a thorough evaluation and personalised advice.
What are the treatment steps for getting dentures?
Step 1 – Initial assessment and model creation:
- Following a thorough consultation to discuss your needs and expectations, precise impressions of your mouth will be taken. These impressions will be used to create a wax model.
- This wax model serves as a preliminary version of your dentures, allowing us to evaluate the fit, bite alignment, and overall comfort before the final dentures are crafted.
Step 2 – Final denture fabrication and fitting:
- Based on the approved wax model, a skilled laboratory will manufacture your final set of dentures using high-quality materials.
- Once completed, you will be scheduled for a fitting appointment. During this session, the dentures will be carefully placed and adjusted to ensure optimal comfort and functionality.
Step 3 – Denture type and placement:
- For complete dentures, the appliance will be fitted to replace all missing teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. These dentures consist of a gum-coloured base with attached prosthetic teeth.
- Partial dentures are designed to fill gaps created by one or several missing teeth. They may utilise metal clasps or other retention methods to securely attach to your remaining natural teeth.
Step 4 – Post-fitting review and adjustments:
- After wearing your new dentures for a week or so, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled.
- This review allows us to assess the ongoing fit, functionality, and comfort of your dentures. Any necessary adjustments will be made to ensure a perfect fit and optimal performance.
Enhanced stability with implant-supported dentures:
- For those seeking enhanced stability and improved chewing and speaking abilities, we offer implant-supported dentures.
- This method involves strategically placing 2 to 4 dental implants, which act as anchors for your full dentures, providing a secure and reliable foundation.
What are the advantages of dentures?
- Improved appearance: Dentures can significantly enhance your smile, boosting your confidence.
- Enhanced chewing ability: They allow you to eat a wider range of foods, improving your nutrition.
- Improved speech: Missing teeth can affect your pronunciation; dentures can help restore clear speech.
- Support facial structure: They prevent facial sagging, which can occur after tooth loss.
- Cost-effective: An effective and accessible solution to restore your smile.
Are dentures or dental implants better?
This is a common question, and the answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a quick comparison:
Dentures:
- Removable
- Less invasive
- Lower cost
- May require adjustments over time
Dental Implants:
- Fixed (permanent)
- More invasive (surgical procedure)
- Higher cost
- Provide excellent stability and longevity
Summary of dental implants versus dentures
Dental implants are a fixed solution and are surgically implanted, whereas dentures are removable and rest on the gums. Both options fill gaps and restore smiles, but implants are a more permanent fixture. When considering dentures in Oxford, you will find that a consultation with us will help you to decide the best course of action for your individual needs.
How to look after your dentures
Proper denture care is essential for maintaining longevity and your oral health.
- Clean your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner.
- Remove your dentures at night and soak them in a denture cleaning solution.
- Rinse your mouth after removing dentures.
- Handle dentures with care to avoid damage.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups with our Oxford dentist.
Top tips for living with dentures
- Practice speaking and chewing with your dentures.
- Start with soft foods and gradually introduce harder foods.
- Use denture adhesive for added stability.
- Be patient; it may take time to adjust to your new dentures.
- Maintain good oral hygiene.
If you are considering dentures in Oxford, it is important to find a dentist that you trust, and that is experienced in this type of dental work.
Taking the next step
If you’re ready to explore your denture options, or if you have any questions about restoring your smile, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our experienced dental team. We can provide personalised advice and help you determine the best treatment plan for your needs. Book your denture consultation today and take the first step towards an informed choice about getting a more confident smile.
