If you are missing multiple teeth and are not interested in the surgery required for dental implants, call our Avanti Dentistry at (703) 952-0663 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Farshad Farhoumand and associates. Our dentists can see you for partial or full dentures in Tysons Corner, Virginia, to help you enjoy everything that comes with having a complete smile.
Dentures are a type of prosthetic teeth recommended when you need to replace multiple teeth. Dentures work to restore your oral function and smile, improving your ability to properly speak and eat, supporting your facial volume and enhancing your overall appearance. Dentures are custom made to fit your mouth comfortably and provide an aesthetically pleasing final result.
There are two main types of dentures:
- Complete Dentures — A complete denture replaces all the teeth in your upper or lower dental arch.
- Partial Dentures — A partial denture is used when some healthy teeth remain and includes a thin framework or clasps that attach to your natural teeth to ensure a secure fit.
Before & After Results
Before
After
Upper and lower complete dentures with esthetic teeth. Dr. Chrisopoulos specializes in creating beautiful dentures that function and create beautiful smiles
While dentures are traditionally removable, our dentists may recommend anchoring them in place with implants. We will review all your options with you during your consultation to help you make an informed decision regarding your dentures.
It will take several appointments to complete your dentures and ensure that they fit properly. After you have received your dentures, our dentists will also provide you with instructions on caring for your appliance so that you can keep it in good condition. We will also check your dentures at each of your regular dental visits to ensure that they fit and function properly and determine if any maintenance is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures
How does facial muscle tone impact how dentures fit over time?
Facial muscles naturally weaken with age; when teeth are lost, the surrounding structures no longer receive the stimulation they once did. This loss of support can cause changes in your bite and jaw alignment, affecting how dentures sit in your mouth. Denture wearers sometimes experience a gradual shift in fit as facial tone changes. Regular checkups help detect these shifts early, and adjustments can keep your prosthetics comfortable.
Can I use a water flosser with dentures or partials?
Water flossers are typically recommended for natural teeth and implant-supported restorations. However, they can be helpful for partial denture wearers who still have natural teeth. If you’re wearing full dentures, a water flosser isn’t necessary for the denture itself, but you can use it to clean the soft tissues underneath. This can reduce bacteria buildup and promote gum health.
How can diet affect the fit of my dentures over time?
Diet plays a significant role in how dentures fit, as it can influence jawbone structure. Hard and chewy foods can strain the prosthetics, causing wear and tear. Foods with high acidity can affect the denture materials, leading to minor distortions or discomfort. A healthy diet rich in calcium can also help maintain bone density, which is important for denture stability. Regularly monitoring how your dentures feel after meals is a good way to ensure that your bite remains correct.
Why do some people experience changes in taste with dentures?
Changes in taste are often related to the coverage of the palate by upper dentures. The palate contains taste buds that contribute to flavor perception. Some wearers may notice a muted taste experience initially. Alternative prosthetic designs like implant-retained overdentures (which don’t cover the palate) may be discussed if taste remains affected.
Is there an ideal time of day to wear or remove dentures for oral tissue recovery?
Yes. Removing your dentures at night is typically best for allowing your gums and jaw tissues to “rest.” Continuous wear can lead to tissue inflammation or infections. If you need to keep them in for social reasons, try to remove them for at least six to eight hours during the day. Always clean your mouth and dentures before reinserting.
Can dentures help with speech clarity, or can they worsen it initially?
When you first get dentures, your speech can be affected temporarily. It may take time to adjust to having a full set of teeth, and some people have trouble pronouncing certain words or sounds. Once you become accustomed to the dentures, they often improve speech clarity by providing a more natural structure for articulation. Regular practice speaking aloud or reading can help speed up the adjustment period.
Are there discreet ways to manage denture-related sore spots in public settings?
If you notice a developing sore spot, discreet relief options include using over-the-counter denture adhesive to cushion the area or keeping dental wax handy. Avoid removing your dentures in public unless necessary. If soreness persists, follow up with your dentist; a simple adjustment can solve the issue.
Call us today (703) 952-0663 for more information about dentures and to schedule your appointment with our dentists!
