Specialty Dentures

Dr Joseph Goodman is a Beverly Hills dentist who provides cosmetic dentistry services. Our clinic offers a variety of treatments for patients with missing teeth, which can improve the appearance of their smiles and their general oral well-being. We invite you to visit our clinic and explore our available options, including specialty dentures.

What Are Specialty Dentures?

Specialty dentures, sometimes known as partial dentures, are a noninvasive and cost-effective substitute for dental implants for people with missing teeth. They work similarly to dental implants, replacing rows of lost teeth and sitting over inserted or natural teeth. Thanks to the technological advancements in dentistry, modern dentures are lighter and more natural-looking than old ones.

Your dentist can make dentures that sit correctly in the oral cavity and fill gaps that result from lost teeth. The personalized fit increases comfort and allows you to wear your dentures inconspicuously throughout the day.

Partial or specialty dentures contain an acrylic base with false teeth attached to a metal structure held together by anchorage teeth. You can easily remove them for cleaning and added comfort while eating or talking. A dental professional can blend the color of the false teeth with your original teeth for a seamless look. After the dentures are installed, they can be fixed or replaced.

It is important to note that it could take some time to adjust to using the specialty dentures, and feeling slight discomfort when speaking and eating after your fitting is entirely natural. Nonetheless, oral nerves, muscles, and ligaments should naturally adapt to the dental appliance after a few days of use. Further, with continued use, the dentures will become “properly balanced and more comfortable.

Types Of Specialty Dentures

As previously stated, partial dentures can be repaired, removed, or replaced as necessary. Numerous options are available, and your particular needs will determine the best.

Below are the primary categories of partial dentures:

Removable Specialty Dentures

Removable specialty dentures, like full dentures, have a gum-colored plastic base resembling gums. Fabricated partial dentures sit in the empty spaces caused by lost teeth and are attached to a metal structure that draws nourishment from nearby dental implants or natural teeth. Alternatively, you might go with acrylic specialty dentures, which typically do not come with wrought wire clasps. They rely heavily on the gum for support, making them more temporary.

Removable partial dentures are a great option if you’re seeking a temporary tooth-loss fix. Additionally, they can be helpful in cases where fixed specialty dentures are not an option.

Fixed Partial Dentures

Fixed partial dentures, as their name implies, are not detachable. Implants support them and can fill the spaces left by lost teeth. You can consider fixed partial dentures for the following reasons:

• They remain more secure inside the oral cavity
• They maintain the contours of your face more effectively
• The strength and longevity of fixed specialty dentures are greater than those of removable dentures
• Align your teeth more effectively for a more pleasant bite

Overdentures

Overdentures are also known as Implant-supported dentures, Snap-in dentures, or Snap-on dentures. They differ from fixed specialty dentures because they do not permanently attach to the implants. Rather, they grab onto the metal supports, pulling enough reinforcement to remain in position.

When compared to full dentures, overdentures offer more stability. They offer several advantages, including:

• Provide long-term solutions for lost teeth
• Ensure pleasant chewing and better biting
• Provide the same functions and appearance as real teeth
• Wearing them is more comfortable

Immediate Specialty Dentures

Losing teeth, regardless of the cause, can be devastating. Even if you cannot stand your smile, there is still hope. Immediate dentures are convenient because there is no need to wait for tooth extraction before installation.

The primary disadvantage is that this sort of denture needs to be custom-fitted. Some patients feel serious discomfort, particularly during those initial days. Nonetheless, they provide outstanding support for four to six months, allowing you ample time to look for alternative tooth replacement options.

Material Alternatives for Specialty Dentures

Each year brings new advances in dentistry. Patients have numerous alternatives when seeking various services, such as dental restorations.

If a patient wants to regain the functionality and appearance of their smile with specialty dentures, they must first understand the various materials utilized in their fabrication. The best choice, however, will depend on their requirements and finances.

Partial dentures are typically crafted from the following materials:

Partial Metal

Specialty dentures with partial metal frameworks have a chrome and cobalt alloy metal base. Dentists use a high-quality resin that matches the denture to the shade of the individual’s teeth. This alternative is both more durable and lighter. Additionally, it offers excellent reinforcement for the teeth still there, ensuring they stay in place.

Porcelain

Porcelain is yet another material alternative. It is durable and strong and contributes to dentures that look natural. Furthermore, porcelain is relatively resistant to wear and offers a comfier fit.

Acrylic Resin

Acrylic resins are more durable than porcelain. They are easy to adjust and very comfortable to put on. If properly maintained, specialty dentures made from acrylic resin could last at least five years.

Flexible Speciality Dentures

Flexible specialty dentures are composed of thin thermoplastics, like nylon. The substance is free of BPA and is resistant to odors and stains. Furthermore, it is durable and suitable for people hypersensitive to metals since it lacks a metal fastener and provides adequate support, eliminating the need for denture adhesives.

What to Expect When Getting Specialty Dentures

Denture fabrication is not as complex as some people assume. The first step is to schedule a dental assessment appointment with a professional. Before determining whether partial dentures are a good fit for you, the dentist will look at your jawbone structure, the gums, and the placement of your lost teeth.

Examination

X-rays help your dentist more easily determine the actual condition of your teeth and identify those that need extraction. Remember that tooth removal is always the last option when preserving the original tooth structure is impossible.

Making the Impression

Partial dentures are customized for added comfort. This necessitates that your dentist create molds of the teeth to make sure that the new appliance fits perfectly, incorporating the curves and edges of your gums. The goal is to design a denture that conforms perfectly to your dental structure and complements the existing dental structure.

Fabricating the Denture

If necessary, you could ask your dental professional for immediate specialty dentures. They provide short-term remedies and could make you less aware of the spaces in your oral cavity. In the meantime, the dentist will submit the mold to a dental lab for fabrication. You can select the best materials for dentures depending on your requirements, preferences, and finances.

When the impression is complete, you will need to schedule another appointment. Based on your choice of denture, your dental professional will either irreversibly fix it or show you how to remove it to clean it. You could need more adjustments if the entire teeth set does not fit properly.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Specialty Dentures

Teeth loss can occur for a variety of reasons. Aside from common issues like tooth decay and facial injuries, you can lose teeth as a result of lifestyle choices such as smoking and eating tacky or sugary things like gummies.

If you choose to replace missing teeth with specialty dentures, below are some advantages and disadvantages to consider:

Advantages of Specialty Dentures

• They maintain your facial features
• They help you chew your favorite foods properly
• They stop the movement of your teeth caused by gaps
• Prevent more invasive dental replacement treatments
• Specialty dentures resolve speech issues resulting from tooth loss
• Improve your smile and general self-confidence

The Disadvantages of Specialty Dentures

• They do not appear as natural as implants
• They require regular refitting
• Consuming certain foods could destroy your dentures
• They cannot be worn overnight
• The main disadvantage of dentures is that they cannot offer the feel of real teeth. Meaning that the bone within the empty spot will gradually resorb, complicating future treatments

Tips That Can Help You Adjust to Your Specialty Dentures

New dentures do not provide an immediate, natural impression. It usually takes time for the mouth to adjust to the new dental restoration, mostly because the implant can feel bulky and unusual. High saliva flow and difficulty speaking and eating during the first several weeks are normal.

Here are some recommendations to help you practice and adapt to the new specialty dentures:

Tips for Eating

One of the first challenges you could face after obtaining your specialty dentures is that biting or chewing does not seem natural. The simplest method to relieve chewing difficulties is to start with semi-solid or soft foods. You can gradually introduce more solid foods as the mouth becomes accustomed to the specialty dentures.

Other suggestions that could help include:

• Take small amounts of water, tea, and other drinks. Straws should be avoided at all costs
• Chopping your food into little pieces and chewing on all sides. This helps maintain the dentures’ balance

How to Talk

You may have speech problems regardless of how many teeth specialist dentures are replaced or where they are implanted. Fortunately, this problem can be addressed quickly, especially as the increased flow of saliva reduces. The quickest technique to alleviate speech problems is to try to read something aloud. Take note of the terms you have trouble pronouncing and rehearse to improve your confidence.

Exercise the Facial Muscles

Once your face muscles have adapted to the specialty dentures, you can feel more at ease wearing them. This helps you chew, smile, laugh, and speak as usual despite minimal discomfort. If you are still experiencing discomfort or pain after a week, visit your dentist.

Use Adhesives and Bonding Agents

If you choose detachable specialty dentures, speak with your dentist about adhesive. These can enhance your self-confidence, especially if you are afraid of dropping the artificial teeth when talking publicly. You can try different adhesives to find the one that works well.

Also, you should adjust your daily routine depending on the kind of dentures fitted. For example, you should always have a handkerchief covering your mouth when you sneeze. This ensures you retain the gadget if it dislodges due to sneezing or coughing pressure.

How to Maintain Specialty Dentures in Good Condition for Long

With proper care, specialty dentures can last 7 to 10 years. Cleaning out dirt and food particles at least twice daily can help prevent straining.

In addition, remember to floss and clean your teeth to preserve good dental health. Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and use a high-quality denture solution on your specialty dentures. Also, clean the dentures with high-quality mouthwash to maintain healthy gums and keep bad breath at bay.

If you would like your equipment to last for many years to come, here are some recommendations that might help:

Cleaning Specialty Dentures

Fold a towel and set it on the bathroom counter. After removing the dentures, clean them in warm water for a few minutes. Apply denture solution using a soft-bristled toothbrush to eliminate plaque, bacteria, and food particles. Make sure you can reach every spot and remove any residual denture glue that could be attached to the gadget. Rinse the dentures again and soak them in warm water before bed.

Soaking prevents the equipment from drying out while not in use. If the dentures start to lose shape or feel stiff, you can soak them in denture solutions. Clean or brush the specialty dentures before wearing them in the morning. Once again, using warm water rather than hot water is important.

Maintaining Your Specialty Dentures

Dentures are fragile and should always be handled with care. If you must place them on a counter, always use a soft cloth rather than on tiled surfaces. Most importantly, do not use ordinary toothpaste to wash your dentures since anything abrasive could damage the artificial teeth, making them ugly.

Another important maintenance tip is to never sleep with specialty dentures. If they are detachable, always soak them in warm water before bed. This will help keep them in a comfortable fit. Furthermore, remove and rinse the dentures after each meal.

Complying with denture adhesive tube guidelines can prolong specialty denture life. Avoid using too much adhesive, and always be careful when removing the adhesive.

If the denture becomes loose or fractures, your dentist can repair it. If you have any concerns, see your dentist immediately to find the best remedy. Trying to repair the equipment in person could make matters worse.

Adjusting Specialty Dentures

Your denture may need to be adjusted over time. As you grow older, your oral cavity naturally changes, which could affect how well your denture fits. Over time, the gum ridges and bone in the mouth can shrink or recede, resulting in poorly fitting dentures. Loose specialty dentures can result in various problems, including oral infections and wounds.

Dentures that don’t fit well can be modified. Avoid using a do-it-yourself denture adjustment kit, as it can permanently damage the prosthetic. Over-the-counter adhesives often contain dangerous compounds and should not be applied to dentures.

If your specialty dentures no longer fit properly, break, crack, or chip, or one of your teeth is loose, you should contact your dentist immediately. In most cases, dentists can perform vital repairs or adjustments on the same day. For complicated repairs, the denture may need to be shipped to a specialized dental laboratory.

Due to regular wear and tear, dentures may need to be re-based, remade, or relined over time. The dentist relines or re-bases the denture by using existing teeth, refitting the denture’s base, or creating a new denture base. If your dentures are loose and your teeth show symptoms of substantial wear, you could have to replace them.

Costs for Specialty Dentures

If you consider having customized dentures, you may wonder how much you would need to spend. Treatment might cost anywhere from $650 to $2,500, depending on the device used and the number of lost teeth needing replacement. A fixed partial denture is more expensive, costing up to $6,500.

Fortunately, you might not need to break the bank to cover the entire bill. Some insurance plans cover the placement of specialty dentures. The amount your insurance company covers for the procedure could range from zero to fifty percent, depending on your coverage policy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Specialty Dentures

The following are some frequently asked questions about dentures.

Are Dentures and Denture Procedures Painful?

Some individuals feel discomfort during tooth extractions and a little soreness afterward. Denture fittings and impressions are painless. You may experience discomfort in your jaw joint or soft tissue when you first get your dentures while your mouth adapts to the new device. This usually lasts only several weeks.

Will Eating Be Difficult with New Specialty Dentures?

Using new dentures requires patience and can cause pain for some people for a few weeks. If you’re new to wearing dentures, start with softer meals. Chew slowly, using each side of the mouth. Add more foods as you become accustomed to the new dentures until you resume a normal diet.

Be cautious when eating solid or hot meals, foods with shells, and foods with cutting edges. Additionally, avoid foods that are too sticky or rough. You should also avoid chewing gum and using toothpicks while wearing specialty dentures.

What Kinds Of Meals Can I Eat While Wearing Partial Dentures?

Wearing partials doesn’t imply you have to give up the foods you love. You can find many foods that are gentle on the gums and simple to chew. Creating a food plan is an excellent method to prepare ahead. Partials make it easy to enjoy great meals like scrambled eggs, yogurt, and soft fruits for breakfast and fish, soup, and mashed potatoes for dinner.

Are Specialty Dentures Worn Around the Clock?

Your dentist or prosthodontist can advise you on the appropriate duration for wearing dentures and when to remove them. For the first few days after receiving them, you may be expected to wear them at all times, including while sleeping. Even though it can initially seem uncomfortable, this is the simplest way to identify the denture’s key problem areas.

After making any necessary modifications, remove the dentures before going to bed. This allows the tooth tissues to rest while the tongue and saliva cleanse and stimulate the mouth. Once you’ve woken up, you can put your dentures back in your mouth.

Will My Speech Be Affected If I Wear Dentures?

Yes, it will. After receiving specialty dentures, you might find it difficult to pronounce a few words. If this occurs, practice saying challenging phrases loudly. You can learn to talk properly while wearing dentures with effort and time.

If you notice a clicking sound when you speak while wearing your dentures, it’s important to contact your dental professional. Your dentures can fall when you laugh, smile, or cough. Chewing and swallowing gently can help you correct your dentures. If you continue to have speech problems, see your dentist or prosthodontist.

Will Wearing Specialty Dentures Affect My Physical Appearance?

Dentures are designed to closely resemble your natural teeth, so there should not be much cosmetic difference. Specialty dentures can improve your smile and make your facial features appear larger.

Find a Beverly Hills Dentist Near Me

Your teeth function well as a whole. Even one missing tooth could affect your oral alignment and lead to speech, bite, or chewing problems. Specialty dentures are an ideal choice for replacing lost teeth and restoring the function and appearance of your natural smile. If you are looking for specialty dentures in Beverly Hills, Dr Goodman is here to help. Dr Joseph Goodman and his team offer many missing tooth treatments to help you enjoy a healthy smile. Call our Beverly Hills clinic today at 310-860-9311.