Dentures in Medford
Dentures in Medford are a popular option in tooth replacement. The denture is a removable set of prosthetic teeth attached to a gum-colored base. When all teeth have been lost, a full denture is applied. A partial denture replaces missing teeth either all in a row, or from different areas of the mouth. Dentures can be supported by suction, adhesive, brackets, or retained by dental implants. Dr. Giamberardino replaces teeth with both implant retained and non-implant retained full and partial dentures.
Full Denture: Traditional and Immediate
Full dentures in Medford can either be traditional or immediate. Traditional full dentures are placed once the gums have had time to heal after extraction of the teeth -- about eight to 12 weeks later. The wearer is without teeth during this time. Immediate dentures are prepared in advance and can be replaced in the same visit. Due to changes in gum and bone tissue during healing, however, the dentures will need to be refitted for a permanent device months after their placement.
Partial Dentures in Medford
The partial denture is used when one or more natural teeth remain in the mouth to replace several missing teeth, either all in a row or from different areas of the mouth. It fits in securely with the rest of the natural teeth, much like a missing puzzle piece. A partial denture restores the patient’s ability to eat and speak properly, and also prevents the remaining natural teeth from drifting out of alignment.
Do I Need a Full or Partial Denture?
If you have some healthy natural teeth remaining in your mouth, there’s no need for these teeth to be removed with a partial denture. A full denture is reserved for patients who are on the brink of complete tooth loss or who require the extraction of the whole row of their teeth. Your dentist will discuss your options and advise you on which is best for your tooth replacement.
Dental Implant Retained Devices
While dentures can be retained with adhesives, suction, brackets, or by using the surrounding natural teeth as anchors, dental implants provide unmatched stability for the prosthetic device. Dental implants are tiny titanium cylinders that are implanted beneath the gum line, where they act as prosthetic roots for the full or partial denture that is attached with special connecting abutments.
Dental implants keep the jawbone healthy and whole, preventing the degeneration of bone matter that occurs as a result of tooth loss. When the jawbone stays intact, the denture that sits on top does not need frequent refitting -- a common requirement of non-implant retained dentures. Oral sores and blisters are also avoided with a well-fitting device.
Additional benefits of implant-retained dentures include:
- No need for bothersome denture adhesives
- Restored ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence
- Freedom from worry that the implant will slip out at inopportune moments
Contact Giamberardino Dental Care and request an appointment to discuss your options in tooth replacement today! In addition to non-implant retained and implant retained full or partial dentures, we also offer life-like crowns for single-tooth replacement.