When to Consider Dentures

When you are missing one or more teeth, you may wonder about the replacement options available. While dentures may conjure up images of older people, the fact is, people of all ages choose dentures to replace missing teeth. If you are experiencing problems with chewing, speaking, and the appearance of a gapped smile, it’s time to consider dentures as an option for replacing your missing teeth. 

Dr. Nataly Vilderman provides dentures and partials for patients throughout the San Francisco, California, area that are durable, comfortable, and natural looking. She and her team use only the latest state-of-the-art materials to give you back your smile and self-confidence. 

How do I know if dentures are right for me? 

Dr. Vilderman provides every patient a personal consultation to discuss teeth replacement options. During this consultation, she can explain more about the ins and outs of dentures. She can also help you decide if dentures are the best option to meet your needs and budget. 

Dentures are dental appliances that are designed to replace several missing teeth. They can be a more affordable option than having several dental implants. Implants are the closest replacement option to natural teeth, but dentures are preferable or more easily accessible to many people. 

Dr. Vilderman will also discuss any existing oral health issues that may need to be addressed before fitting you for dentures. This may include removing bad or broken teeth or dealing with gum disease.  

What are the options with dentures? 

The two main options from which patients can choose include complete or partial dentures

If you still have some or most of your natural teeth, partial dentures might be the best option for you. Partial dentures are held in place by attaching them to your existing teeth. They can also be anchored to dental implants

If all your teeth are missing, or those few remaining will need to be removed, full dentures are likely the best option for you. It takes at least eight weeks for your gums to heal after any teeth are removed. When the gums are fully healed, you can begin to wear your new dentures. 

Dr. Vilderman also works with you to choose what type of material is best for your new dentures and to ensure they fit comfortably and securely for the best possible experience. 

What is the process for getting dentures?

After determining which type of dentures are the best option to meet your needs, Dr. Vilderman and her team take molds of your mouth and teeth. These molds are used to construct your dentures. The denture material is shaped according to these molds and fitted with teeth and false gums that are made to conform to your natural gums. This process typically takes a few weeks. Meanwhile, Dr. Vilderman will take care of any oral issues to prepare you for your new dentures. 

When your new dentures are ready, you will return to Dr. Vilderman’s San Francisco dental practice to have them fitted and adjusted. We will also teach you how to clean and maintain them. If you have any trouble at all with the fit or comfort of your new dentures, we’re happy to make adjustments and help you get the best fit possible. 

If you’re ready to explore dentures to replace your missing teeth, or if you have questions about dentures or other teeth replacement options, contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Vilderman. You can also use our online booking tool to schedule your appointment.

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