Dentures

Are you missing teeth? You’re not alone. Millions of people use dentures to help them eat, speak, and smile with confidence after tooth loss.

Dentures are removable teeth replacements that can change your life for the better. Dr. Blevins and Dr. Gardner offer this tooth replacement option in our Mullins, SC, dentist office for patients with several missing teeth or a full arch of lost teeth.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are prosthetic teeth attached to an acrylic resin base that replace missing natural teeth. They sit on your gums and help you chew food, speak clearly, and smile with confidence. Modern dentures look natural and feel comfortable.

Dentures come in two main types: full dentures and partial dentures. Our dental care team will work with you to evaluate your oral health condition and help you choose the right type of tooth replacement for your needs.

We also offer immediate denture therapy to restore and rebuild your smile in a single visit. Dr. Blevins and Dr. Gardner can place a full or partial denture immediately after tooth removal so that you can leave with a fully functional temporary denture in place while the gums and soft tissue heal. After several months, we will retake dental impressions and create a permanent denture that is fitted to the new contours of your gums for a comfortable and lasting outcome.

Immediate dentures are often the best solution for patients needing teeth removed or missing teeth in the smile zone, impacting their appearance and ability to speak and chew properly.

Full Dentures

Full dentures replace all the teeth in your upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. If you’ve lost all your teeth due to age, injury, or health problems, full dentures can give you back a beautiful smile.

Full dentures stay in place using suction. They rest directly on your gums using a denture adhesive for extra security. Full dentures need to be removed at night to clean them and let your gums rest while you sleep. This helps to maintain the life of your denture and your oral health.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures replace some missing teeth when you still have healthy natural teeth. They fill in the gaps in your smile like puzzle pieces. They attach to your remaining natural teeth using small metal clasps. These clasps keep the denture stable while you eat and talk.

The base of partial dentures can be made of plastic or metal. Metal bases are thinner and more comfortable, but they typically cost more. Like full dentures, partial dentures should be removed at night for cleaning.

Benefits of Dentures

• Improved appearance and confidence
• Better ability to eat a variety of foods
• Clearer speech
• Support for facial muscles to prevent sagging
• Affordable tooth replacement option

New dentures might feel strange at first. Your mouth needs time to adjust. You might notice that you salivate more, have irritated or sore gums, and you may have difficulty chewing at first. These problems usually go away as you get used to your dentures. Most people adjust to wearing their new dentures within a few weeks.

Patients can improve their oral function after getting dentures by starting with soft foods cut into small pieces. Practicing speaking by reading aloud and conversing at home with loved ones will help you learn to speak clearly and confidently.

Caring for Your Dentures

Regular denture care helps them last longer. Clean your dentures daily by:

1. Removing and rinsing after eating
2. Brushing daily with a soft brush and denture cleaner (not toothpaste)
3. Soaking overnight in denture solution
4. Rinsing well before putting back in your mouth

Your mouth changes over time, so dentures need adjustments or replacement every few years. We will monitor the fit and condition of your dentures during regular dental care visits.

Are Dentures Right for You?

Dentures are a good option for many people with missing teeth. They cost less than dental implants and don’t require oral surgery. However, dentures aren’t perfect. They can’t stop bone loss in your jaw and may need to be replaced as your mouth changes.

During a consultation about tooth replacement needs, we will explore whether dentures are the best choice for your oral health needs. Depending on your needs and budget, Dr. Blevins or Dr. Gardner might suggest other options, like dental bridges or dental implants.

Remember, replacing missing teeth isn’t just about looks. It helps you stay healthy by letting you eat better foods and preventing problems with your remaining teeth.