Dentures

A denture replaces natural teeth and provides support for the cheeks and lips. Most dentures are made of acrylic, and the teeth are made of plastic or porcelain. To make your denture, Dr. Gardell uses new CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technologies to produce accurately measured dentures that fit and look great. The CAD system creates accurate three-dimensional photo simulations of how your denture will look, and the CAM system controls the manufacturing process.

By taking the human error factor out of the equation, your dentures are made with greater precision and in a shorter amount of time.

• A conventional denture is made after all teeth have been extracted and the gums have healed.
• An immediate denture is fabricated and inserted immediately after the teeth are extracted and the gums are allowed to heal under the denture.
• An upper denture is made of a flesh-colored acrylic that covers the roof of the mouth.
• A lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to leave room for the tongue.
• Over time, dentures will wear and will need to be replaced or relined in order maintain comfortable jaw alignment.
• Routine dental examinations still are important for the denture wearer so that the oral tissues can be checked for disease or change.

For a more secure fit, dentures can be attached to dental implants. If all of your lower teeth are missing, two to six implants may be used to support a lower denture. If all of your upper teeth are missing, a minimum of four implants may be used to support an upper denture. The denture can have attachments that snap it into place on the implants or a custom made bar can be fabricated to provide additional support for the denture. Denture designs vary depending on your bone density, the number of implants, and cosmetic considerations. During your visit, Dr. Gardell will respond to your questions and explain your denture options. Call or email us today to schedule a visit with our Centennial dentist office.