If you’ve lost one or more teeth, it’s important to replace them. No matter your age, a smile remains an important social asset, and your range of nutritious food options diminishes if you don’t replace your teeth. Fortunately, dentures can replace any number of lost teeth, from a single lost tooth to an entire arch of lost teeth. Plus, we can design dentures that will give you fully functional teeth.
To learn more about our tooth replacement options, please call (509) 927-2273 today and schedule a consultation with a Spokane Valley denture dentist at Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics.
Types of Dentures
Dentures come in many types, depending on the number of teeth you need to replace, and the level of function you’re looking for. We offer three main types:
- Partial
- Full
- Implant
Partial dentures are designed to replace one or more missing teeth–but less than a full arch. They are made up of the right number of replacement teeth set in a metal or plastic base. The teeth squeeze in among your remaining teeth and the base fits along the floor or roof of your mouth which are held in by a combination of suction and the support of your natural teeth. In the past, metal hooks or clasps were required to support a partial denture, but now some people can get partials made without metal. We’ll evaluate your bite and see if you are a candidate for this type of partial.
Full dentures are designed to replace an entire arch of teeth. They’re held in place by suction against the roof or floor of your mouth. They are not very secure, especially for your lower jaw.
Implant dentures are secured by dental implants, a very effective combination.
Alternative Tooth Replacement Options in Spokane Valley
Dentures have long been the most commonly used tooth replacement option. If their performance was poor, well, at least it was predictable. Now more modern tooth replacement options offer both predictability and improved function.
Dental bridges are sometimes called fixed partial dentures (FPDs) because they’re basically denture teeth that are bonded to your natural teeth instead of a denture base. They let you bite and chew normally, but they have limitations. A bridge is supported by your natural teeth, which means removing some natural tooth structures. It can even put the supporting teeth at risk, which is why we only recommend bridges when there’s a minimal risk to supporting teeth.
Another dental bridge option is implant bridges. When you’re only missing a few teeth, you can get a dental implant or two to hold your bridge in place. Of course, your tooth situation has to be right for this treatment to be possible. Your Spokane Valley dentists can help you decide if an implant bridge is right for you.
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, usually made of titanium. When these artificial roots bond to your jawbone, we attach crowns or dentures to the implants. This can allow you to bite and chew normally. However, the exact function depends on the type of implant denture you choose.
Implant Dentures
We can improve the function of dentures by combining them with dental implants. First, implants can be implant-secured or implant-supported. Implant-secured ones are held in your mouth by dental implants. They don’t slip out of your mouth, but because they’re supported by your gums (which aren’t designed to support bite force), they don’t improve your function much beyond security. implant-supported convey force directly to the dental implants, which are anchored in your bone.
Dentures can also be removable or fixed, so only your dentist can take them out. Removable dentures are a little easier to care for and maintain, but they might not be as secure and can wear out more quickly. Fixed dentures are more secure, but they can be harder to maintain.
During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your goals and situation to recommend the best dentures for you.
Which Tooth Replacement Option is Best for Me?
Deciding which tooth replacement option is best for you doesn’t have to be difficult. We know that losing a tooth or teeth can be a traumatic experience, but our Spokane Valley dentists are here to help you every step of the way. Here are a couple of questions to ask yourself when determining which tooth replacement option is best for you.
- Can I get dental implants? The best tooth replacement option is dental implants. You can replace a full mouth of teeth with implant-retained dentures or a partial arch with an implant bridge. But there are some considerations when considering dental implants. Consider if you are fit for surgery, have any underlying oral health issues, if your jawbone is dense enough, and if your jaw is fully developed. Some of these questions are best answered by your Spokane Valley dentist, Drs. Ken and Marnie Collins.
- If you can’t get dental implants for one reason or another, the next thing to consider is how many teeth you’re looking to replace. If it’s only a few, a bridge is the best option for you. If it’s a full arch or full mouth, consider Spokane Valley dentures.
Experienced Spokane Valley Denture Dentists
Drs. Ken and Marnie Collins are experienced denture dentists who focus on helping patients in Spokane Valley achieve natural-looking, well-fitting, and functional dentures. They understand that dentures can be a daunting and overwhelming experience for many patients, and they strive to make the process as comfortable and stress-free as possible. They offer personalized consultations and take the time to understand each patient’s unique needs and concerns. Using the latest technology and techniques, they create customized dentures that look and feel like natural teeth, ensuring maximum comfort and functionality. With their experience and compassionate approach, Drs. Ken and Marnie Collins are trusted providers of quality dentures in Spokane Valley.
Get Dentures in Spokane Valley
If you are unhappy with your current dentures, we can help give you a better fit, comfort, function, and appearance. You’ll not only feel better, you’ll look better–and younger, too.
To learn how we can help you, please call (509) 927-2273 today for an appointment with a Spokane Valley denture dentist at Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics.
