Not Your Grampa’s False Teeth! Modern Techniques for Remarkably Realistic Dentures

Say the word “dentures,” and, like many people, you may have cartoonish images pop into your head. Picturing old, outdated prosthetics, you believe that dentures are uncomfortable and fake-looking. Fortunately, innovations in restorative dentistry mean that today’s practitioners can offer remarkably realistic dentures!

At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, Dr. Matthew Bridges combines cutting-edge techniques and modern materials to create quality dentures. Most importantly, he will carefully design your denture, taking all the time necessary to ensure a comfortable, functional, and beautiful prosthetic.

To learn more about our innovative methods or to schedule your restorative consultation, contact our office today.

Dentures: An Overview

Tooth loss is very common. Over 120 million Americans have lost all their teeth, and 36 million are missing at least one tooth. Furthermore, in a survey of 19 countries, nearly one in five people wear some type of dentures.

There are two different sizes of dentures. Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth. Partial dentures are for patients who still have some remaining healthy teeth. Both types are appropriate for the upper and/or lower arch. Removable dentures have a plastic base that fits over the gums. Partials also have small metal clips that keep them attached to the adjacent teeth.

In addition to traditional removable dentures, qualified patients can also select implant-supported prosthetics. These dentures connect to permanent implant posts, which are surgically set in the jawbone.

Fabrication Process

No matter what size or type of denture you choose, Dr. Bridges will begin with a thorough consultation. After taking impressions of your mouth, he will create a wax buildup. That way, you can try on a model, and the doctor can make adjustments to improve the look or feel of your prosthetic. Once you are both satisfied, he will send the buildup to a top-quality lab, which will create your final denture. When it is finished and back in our office, Dr. Bridges can make any necessary adjustments.

State-of-the-Art Materials

Removable dentures are made from several different materials. The base is usually a combination of metal and acrylic or polymer. The metal forms the framework of the prosthetic. The acrylic/polymer is carefully selected to match the color of your gum tissue.

The false teeth are typically made from acrylic, porcelain, or zirconia. Not only do modern porcelain and zirconia come in a wide range of shades. Their slight translucence gives dentures a natural sparkle and sheen.

With implant-supported dentures, there is no need for a framework. The teeth themselves will be crafted from the same high-quality materials as their removable counterparts.

Dental Implants for the Ultimate in Realistic Dentures

All of our dentures look natural. But for the most lifelike appearance, nothing can rival implant-supported dentures. Implants replace your missing tooth roots. The attached prosthetic will rest directly on your gums with no plastic base, metal clips, or adhesives.

If you are interested in implants, Dr. Bridges can assess your candidacy before referring you to a skilled oral surgeon. Once your implant surgery is complete, he will design and attach your custom denture.