Getting Your Custom Dentures at Mint Dental
Losing teeth can significantly impact your life, not just due to the discomfort and pain it may cause, but also because it can affect your self-esteem and ability to eat and speak with ease. Luckily, our Pearl, MS, dentist, Dr. Alexa Lampkin, provides a solution through dentures.
Understand how the denture process functions before making your decision. To book an appointment with our dentist at Mint Dental, contact our Pearl dental office today by calling (601) 882-5600.
The Procedure for Dentures at Mint Dental
The denture procedure at Mint Dental generally consists of several steps. Patients need to note the process may vary depending on the type of dentures they receive, such as immediate dentures, compared to the traditional denture process described below.
Initial Consultation
The first step in determining if complete dentures are the right solution for replacing missing teeth is to schedule a consultation at our Pearl dental office with Dr. Lampkin. During this visit, your oral health will be evaluated, and your needs and expectations will be discussed.
Based on the evaluation, our dentist will develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique situation. Considerations include:
- The number of missing teeth
- The condition of your oral health
- The state of your jawbone
- Any potential complications
Preliminary Impressions
After deciding to proceed with dentures, our dentist will take impressions of your gums, teeth, and surrounding tissues to create a mold of your mouth. This mold is essential for crafting a personalized denture that fits securely and comfortably.
A dental laboratory will use these impressions and measurements to produce a detailed model of your mouth. This model assists in designing dentures that accurately conform to the unique contours of your mouth.
Wax Models
A wax model of the dentures will be crafted, allowing you to visualize how they will look and fit in your mouth. This stage is crucial for making any necessary adjustments to ensure the final product meets your aesthetic needs and expectations.
Final Denture Fitting
After the wax model receives your approval, the final dentures will be crafted. During the final denture fitting appointment, our dentist will fit the finished dentures in your mouth and make any necessary adjustments to ensure they fit comfortably and securely.
Follow-up Appointments
Once you have your new dentures, a follow-up appointment with our Pearl dentist will likely be scheduled to ensure they fit properly and that you’re comfortable with them. Dr. Lampkin may also offer guidance and tips on how to care for and maintain your dentures to ensure their longevity. It’s important to keep up with regular dental visits to maintain the condition of your new dentures and your overall oral health.
Do You Need Tooth Extraction Before Getting Dentures?
For many individuals requiring complete or partial dentures, having teeth extracted beforehand is a common step. This procedure is crucial to ensure the dentures fit properly and comfortably.
If a tooth extraction is necessary before you receive dentures, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area and then proceed to remove the required teeth. In certain cases, incisions may be needed in the gum tissue to access the teeth.
After the extraction, sutures might be placed in the gum tissue to aid the healing process. Patients are often advised to consume soft foods and avoid smoking and alcohol for a period to facilitate recovery.
Once your gums have healed, our dentist will begin crafting your dentures.
The Lifespan of Your Dentures
Once you’ve completed the denture process, you’ll want to ensure they last as long as possible. Typically, traditional dentures have a lifespan of five to 10 years.
To extend the life of your new dentures, consider the following tips:
- Material Quality: The durability of your dentures heavily depends on the quality of materials used in their construction. Opting for high-quality materials can contribute to a longer lifespan.
- Proper Care: Maintaining and cleaning your dentures properly is crucial. Neglecting oral hygiene can accelerate wear and tear. A healthy mouth supports the longevity of your dentures.
- Dental Health: Over time, changes in your mouth’s shape and structure can affect how your dentures fit. Regular dental check-ups can help address these changes.
- Denture Type: The type of dentures you choose (whether full dentures, partial dentures, or implant-supported dentures) can influence their durability. For instance, implant-supported dentures often provide greater stability and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
The timeline for receiving dentures typically ranges from a few weeks to several months. This duration depends on various factors, such as the type of dentures being crafted and any necessary modifications. The process involves several stages, including creating a preliminary model, manufacturing the final dentures, and ensuring they fit properly and comfortably.
Yes, there are various denture options to suit your specific needs. Full dentures are designed to replace all teeth in the upper and lower jaws, while partial dentures are used to fill in gaps from missing teeth and are held in place by clasps attached to existing teeth. Additionally, implant-supported dentures use dental implants to offer enhanced stability and comfort.
Achieve a Complete, Healthy Smile With Dentures
Getting dentures can be transformative for those who have experienced tooth loss. Although it may require some time to adapt to wearing and maintaining your new dentures, the advantages of being able to eat, speak, and smile as you would with natural teeth are incredibly rewarding. With Dr. Lampkin’s expertise, you can benefit from a comfortable and tailored denture fitting experience, along with continuous support and care to maximize the durability and functionality of your dentures.
To schedule a consultation at our Pearl dental office, contact our dentist at (601) 882-5600. We’re proud to serve patients from Brandon, Richland, Jackson, and neighboring areas.