Complete Dentures in O’Fallon IL

Tooth loss is a preventable yet common occurrence among older adults. The causes can vary from taking certain medications to poor dental hygiene habits. Regardless, missing teeth pose several issues, such as difficulty chewing or speaking.

However, complete dentures are an excellent solution. At Lake Pointe Dental Group, we provide the utmost care to patients of all ages. Schedule an appointment with us today to improve your smile and appearance with complete dentures in O’Fallon, IL!

What Are Complete Dentures?

Complete dentures are removable replacements for patients missing most of their teeth. They contain full prosthetic teeth that uphold facial structure and appearance. Each patient receives custom-fitting appliances for a comfortable and snug fit.

The complete denture base consists of pink or gum-colored plastic and rests on the gums. Upper sets cover the entire palate, or roof of the mouth. On the other hand, lower sets resemble horseshoes to allow ample space for the tongue. Some patients require an upper and lower set, while others need just one.

Why Might Someone Need Complete Dentures?

Dentures provide the necessary support to the lips and cheeks. When a patient is missing several teeth in a row, whether from an extraction or a medical condition, facial structure can change and display a “sunken” look.

Complete dentures provide many benefits to patients missing most or all of their teeth:

  • Avoiding the “sunken” facial appearance
  • Supporting facial muscles
  • Improving the ability to eat and speak
  • A confident smile

Complete vs. Partial Dentures

Knowing the difference between complete and partial dentures is helpful when considering a solution for missing teeth. Dr. Bean can assess your situation and determine which is best for you.

Partial dentures benefit those with a few missing teeth and are often referred to as bridges. They consist of a plate with one or more prosthetic teeth. If your remaining natural teeth are strong and sufficient, a partial bridge could be a solution. Dental implants can provide a solid foundation for those whose natural teeth can’t uphold a partial denture device.

Complete dentures, on the other hand, replace your entire set of teeth. We also offer implant supported dentures in O’Fallon, IL, to maintain your facial structure and provide greater stability.

The Complete Denture Process

Receiving complete dentures requires several appointments over approximately three weeks. Once our dentists determine the best option, you can expect the following steps:

  • Making several impressions of your jaw
  • Taking measurements of your bite
  • Creating models in the exact shape and size of the future dentures
  • Trying the model several times to ensure proper color, shape, and fit
  • Casting the final dentures in a dental laboratory
  • Making final adjustments as necessary

Complete Denture Aftercare

After receiving your final set(s) of dentures, it will likely take a few weeks to become familiar with the fit and functionality. Although it may feel strange when first placing them in your mouth, today’s dentures are much more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing than those of the past.

Keep the following when caring for your new set of complete dentures:

Sore Spots

It’s typical to experience a few sore spots within the first 24 hours after receiving your dentures. However, your dentist can relieve those areas through adjustments. We recommend an initial readjustment appointment immediately after placing the dentures and another about seven days later.

Chewing

Your new bite, or occlusion, will feel uncomfortable for a few days. It’s in your best interest to avoid hard-to-eat foods until we make all adjustments. Then, once the dentures are optimal, you’ll have no difficulty eating your favorite foods.

Upper vs. Lower Dentures

Upper dentures rest comfortably thanks to a layer of saliva between the appliance and gums that forms a seal. Lower dentures are relatively stable, but often the seal isn’t strong enough to keep them in place. If you suffer from dry mouth or have difficulty, we suggest using denture adhesives.

Cleaning Your Dentures

Proper denture care is of utmost importance for your fixtures and mouth. Follow these guidelines to adequately care for your new complete dentures:

  • Use a soft-bristled brush daily to remove food and plaque
  • Cleanse with mild dish soap
  • Rinse with water after every meal
  • When not wearing dentures, place them in a water-and-mouthwash solution

Cleaning Your Mouth

Ensure you brush your gums, remaining teeth, and palate with a soft-bristled brush every morning before placing the dentures. Doing so removes plaque and keeps the surrounding tissues strong. Additionally, rinse your mouth with lukewarm salt water daily to cleanse, and let your gums rest.

The Future

When missing teeth, your jaw bones and gums shrink up to 1/32 of an inch per year. Plan to visit us each year so we can assess your dentures and oral tissues. We’ll let you know if your dentures require relining or rebasing. You must maintain regular appointments because wearing ill-fitting dentures for too long can cause bone loss and oral disease.

Get Started With Complete Dentures in O’Fallon, IL Today

We at Lake Pointe Dental Group take pride in our full suite of dental treatments and services. Our team of professionals can identify and provide the best solution for your missing teeth. Schedule an appointment today to receive complete dentures in O’Fallon, IL!