What are My Denture Options?

A complete smile makes a huge difference in people's self-esteem and overall appearance. Dr. Michelle Mottinger knows her patients want to look good for dates, job interviews, and everyday life, which is why she offers dentures at her North Greensboro, NC, office.

Types of Dentures

There are two types of dentures--partial and full--and either dental implants can be used with either to maximize stability and functionality.

Partial Dentures

  • Traditional partial denture: This denture is attached to natural teeth on either side of the dental gap using metal clasps. Natural teeth need enamel preparation to accommodate the light metal frame.

Full Dentures

  • Traditional full dentures: This is best for people who have lost most or all of their natural teeth. Full dentures are attached or placed in the mouth by suction or attachment to remaining natural teeth.
     
  • Conventional full dentures: Your Greensboro dentist places the denture after the tooth-extraction site(s) is fully healed.
     
  • Immediate full dentures. This denture requires one or two appointments for proper sizing and Dr. Mottinger places it immediately after tooth extraction. You may need to visit your dentist a few times adjustments and relining as bone and gum tissue shrink.

Caring for Dentures

Dentures can be broken, so if you have removable dentures, take them out over a sink full of water or a counter with a towel on the surface. Also, use a denture-cleaning solution to keep dentures in at night and rinse thoroughly before placing them back in your mouth the next morning.

When brushing dentures, it's best to use specialized toothpaste. Brush and floss teeth gently to ensure bacteria don't eat away at the dental prosthetic and ruin them.

Have more questions?

Getting dentures is a smart solution. If you'd like to learn more about them and if you're a good candidate, speak with Dr. Michelle Mottinger at her North Greensboro, NC, office. You can schedule an appointment when you call (336) 375-1825 today!