Dentures in Bakersfield, CA
Convenient and Affordable Solutions for Missing Teeth at Gentle Family Dentistry
You don’t have to live with missing teeth for the rest of your life. Dentures are a tried-and-true option that helps patients eat, speak, and smile with confidence. At Gentle Family Dentistry, our Bakersfield dentist offers dentures in different types and styles, so we can help you choose what works best for you and your smile goals.
We’re proud to restore the smiles of patients in Bakersfield, CA. Contact our top-rated dentist today by calling 661-664-9900 to schedule an appointment.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable appliances used to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They’re made to resemble natural teeth and can improve your smile along with your ability to chew food properly. Dentures are typically made of acrylic resin, but they can also incorporate various materials, such as metal for added strength.
Types of Dentures
Traditional dentures are always a reliable choice, however, with recent advances in dentistry, there are other types of dentures you may want to consider. Depending on your dentist, they may recommend any of the following dentures:
- Complete Dentures: Also known as full dentures, complete dentures are used when all natural teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing. They’re custom-made to fit the unique shape and structure of the patient’s mouth.
- Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth are still present. Removable partial dentures attach to the remaining natural teeth and fill in the gaps where teeth are missing.
- Immediate Dentures: Immediate dentures are made before natural teeth are removed and are designed to be placed immediately after tooth extraction. They can be worn temporarily while the gums and bones heal and a permanent denture is made.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: Implant-supported dentures, also known as overdentures or permanent dentures, are attached to dental implants that are surgically placed in the jawbone. This provides a more stable and secure fit for the denture. You also don’t have to worry about any messy denture adhesive.
- Snap-in Dentures: Snap-in dentures are similar to implant-supported dentures, but they attach to mini-implants and are less invasive and expensive than traditional dental implants.
Which Dentures Are Right for You?
Choosing dentures is a big decision, but with some helpful guidance from our Bakersfield dentist, you can make the best decision for your oral health needs.
Some factors to consider when selecting your new dentures include:
- Budget: Make sure to determine your budget before choosing a denture type, as each type of denture will differ in cost.
- Material: Denture teeth can be made from different materials, such as acrylic, porcelain, and metal. Each material has its benefits and drawbacks, so think about which material is best suited for your budget, comfort, and aesthetic preferences.
- Oral health: The condition of your oral health is a key factor in determining the type of denture that’s right for you. For example, if you have significant bone loss, implant-supported dentures may be a better option than conventional dentures.
- Number of missing teeth: If you’re only missing a few teeth, partial dentures may be your best option, whereas if you’re missing most of your teeth, complete dentures may be the best.
- Lifestyle factors: Consider your lifestyle and how your dentures will fit into it. For example, if you’re very active and participate in sports or other physical activities, you may want to consider dentures designed for greater stability and durability.
- Talk to your dentist: Your dentist is your best resource when it comes to choosing the right dentures. They’ll evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals and preferences, and determine your candidacy for dentures.
Denture Benefits
While there are various tooth replacement options available, dentures offer multiple benefits, including:
- Restored speaking and chewing ability
- Improved facial appearance
- Affordability
- Non-Invasive
- Easy to care for
- Quick restoration
- It helps preserve bone
- Can be reversible
- Customizable
How the Denture Process Works
The denture process involves an initial consultation with a dentist, followed by the development of a personalized treatment plan. Impressions of the mouth are taken, and for full dentures, a wax try-in is conducted to check fit and alignment. Artificial teeth are selected and placed on a framework for partial dentures. The final denture is fabricated with a comfortable fit and natural appearance, and adjustments are made during a fitting appointment.
Depending on the type of denture you receive, the process may be different. For example, if you’re getting overdentures, you’ll need to get dental implants before the dentures are placed. Our Bakersfield dentist will review the procedure with you after deciding on the best type of denture for your oral health.
Cleaning Your Dentures
Cleaning your dentures is essential to maintaining your oral health and keeping your dentures looking and feeling fresh. Proper care can extend the life of your dentures and prevent complications.
Do the following when caring for dentures:
- Rinse dentures after eating
- Handle with care
- Brush daily with a soft-bristled brush
- Soak overnight with a denture cleanser soaking solution
- Rinse dentures thoroughly
- Clean any existing teeth
- Visit our dentist for regular exams and cleanings
Cost of Dentures
On average, basic dentures may range from $600 to $1500 per arch. Premium dentures can cost between $2000 and $4000 per arch. These prices can differ based on location and the specific dental practice. Additional expenses for consultations, adjustments, and maintenance should also be considered. Dental insurance may help cover some costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can eat with dentures, but you may need to make some adjustments to your diet. Initially, it’s best to stick to soft foods and cut them into small pieces to make them easier to chew. Over time, you can gradually introduce more challenging foods, but you should avoid very hard or sticky foods that could damage or dislodge your dentures.
While it’s possible to sleep with your dentures in, it’s generally not recommended. Removing your dentures at night allows your gums and mouth tissues to rest and recover from the pressure of the appliance during the day. It also allows you to clean and care for your dentures properly.
It may take some time to get used to wearing dentures, especially if you’re new to them. You may experience some discomfort or soreness in the first few weeks you wear dentures, but this should improve as your mouth adjusts to the new appliance. Make sure to follow your dentist’s instructions and wear your dentures as directed to help your mouth adapt to the change.
Implant-supported dentures are typically considered the most natural-looking dentures. This is due to their secure fit in your jawbone because of dental implants and their ability to be customized to perfectly match your unique smile.
Ready to Replace Your Missing Teeth? Schedule Your Consultation with Dr. Garger today!
At our dental office in Bakersfield, we understand the importance of a healthy and confident smile. Our dentist and team are dedicated to providing personalized and comprehensive care to patients who need dentures.
Contact us today at 661-664-9900 to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help restore your smile and confidence with custom-made dentures that look just like natural teeth.