A complete, confident smile is essential for your health and self-esteem. When you're missing teeth, it can affect everything from how you eat and speak to how you feel in social situations. If you're exploring options to restore your smile, dentures offer a reliable, aesthetic, and functional solution.
For many residents in National City and the surrounding areas, dentures are a life-changing treatment. At Crown Dental Group, we specialize in creating custom-fit dentures that look natural and feel comfortable. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the different types available to the cost and daily care.
What Exactly Are Dentures?
Dentures are custom-made, removable replacements for missing teeth and the surrounding gum tissues. They are carefully crafted to match your natural teeth and facial structure, helping to restore both the function of your bite and the appearance of your smile.
Whether you are missing a few teeth or all of your teeth, a well-made set of dentures can:
Allow you to eat and speak more comfortably.
Support your facial muscles to prevent a "sunken" look.
Restore your smile and boost your confidence.
Who is a Good Candidate for Dentures?
You may be a good candidate for dentures if you have experienced significant tooth loss due to:
Advanced gum disease (periodontitis)
Severe tooth decay
Facial or oral injury
The best way to know for sure is to schedule a consultation. A dentist at our National City office can evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and determine if dentures are the right solution for you.
Types of Dentures We Offer at Crown Dental Group
Technology has advanced significantly, and today's dentures are more comfortable and natural-looking than ever. We offer several types to meet your specific needs.
Full Dentures (Conventional vs. Immediate)
Full dentures are used when all of your natural teeth in either the upper or lower jaw (or both) are missing.
Conventional Full Dentures: These are made and placed in your mouth after any remaining teeth have been removed and the gum tissues have fully healed. This healing process can take several weeks to months. The benefit is a very precise and comfortable fit from the start.
Immediate Full Dentures: These are fabricated in advance and placed immediately after your remaining teeth are extracted. The primary benefit is that you never have to go without teeth. However, as your gums and jawbone heal and shrink, these dentures will require several adjustments and relines to maintain a proper fit.
Partial Dentures
If you are missing just a few teeth, a partial denture is an excellent solution. This removable appliance consists of replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored plastic base. It's often supported by a metal framework or other natural-looking connectors that hold the denture in place by attaching to your nearby natural teeth. Partials fill in the gaps, prevent other teeth from shifting, and restore your bite.
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Implant-Supported Dentures (Overdentures)
For patients seeking the highest level of stability, implant-supported dentures are the gold standard. These "snap-in" dentures combine the affordability of a denture with the security of dental implants.
A few dental implants (typically 2-6) are surgically placed in your jawbone. The denture is then custom-made with special attachments that click or snap securely onto the implants. This prevents any slipping, eliminates the need for adhesives, and provides superior chewing power.
The Process: What to Expect When Getting Dentures
We strive to make your journey to a new smile as smooth and comfortable as possible. Here’s a typical step-by-step overview.
Step 1: The Initial Consultation
You'll meet with your denture dentist at our National City office. We'll perform a comprehensive exam, take X-rays, and discuss your goals, budget, and medical history. We will present all your options, including the different types of dentures, and help you make an informed choice.
Step 2: Impressions and Measurements
We will take highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements of your jaws. This ensures your custom dentures will have a precise fit and a proper bite relationship.
Step 3: The "Try-In" Phase
Before the final denture is made, you'll try in a wax model or mock-up. This allows us to check the fit, shape, color, and alignment of the teeth. We can make any adjustments right then and there to ensure you are 100% happy with the look and feel.
Step 4: Final Fitting and Adjustments
Once your final denture is ready, you'll come in for a fitting. We will make any last-minute, minor adjustments to ensure maximum comfort. We will also provide detailed instructions on how to use and care for your new appliance.
Living With Your New Dentures
There will be a short adjustment period as you get used to your new dentures. This is completely normal.
Eating and Speaking
Speaking may feel different at first. Practice reading aloud to quickly adapt your tongue and lips. When eating, start with soft foods cut into small pieces and chew slowly, using both sides of yourmou. Avoid extremely hot, hard, or sticky foods in the first few days.
Cleaning and Maintenance (Denture Care)
Proper denture care is vital to make them last and to keep your mouth healthy.
Handle with Care: Always stand over a folded towel or a sink full of water when handling your dentures, as they can break if dropped.
Brush Daily: Gently brush your dentures at least once a day with a soft-bristle denture brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner. Do not use regular toothpaste, which is too abrasive.
Clean Your Mouth: After removing your dentures, gently brush your gums, tongue, and palate with a soft brush to remove plaque and stimulate circulation.
Soak Overnight: Most dentures need to stay moist to keep their shape. Soak them overnight in a designated denture solution or water. Your dentist will advise you on the best method.
Schedule Regular Checkups: See your dentist regularly to check the fit of your dentures and to have your oral health examined.
Cost of Dentures in National City, CA
The cost of dentures varies widely based on several factors:
The type of denture (full, partial, implant-supported)
The quality of the materials used
The amount of prep work needed (e.g., extractions)
While implant-supported dentures have a higher upfront cost, they often provide better long-term value. We are proud to offer affordable dentures and will work with you to find a solution that fits your budget. Crown Dental Group accepts many dental insurance plans and offers financing options to help make your treatment more affordable.
Your Denture Questions Answered (FAQ)
How long do dentures last?
With proper care, dentures can last for many years (typically 5-10). Over time, your jawbone may change, requiring your dentures to be relined (refitted) or replaced for an optimal fit.
Will dentures change how I look?
Dentures are designed to restore your natural appearance and can even improve it. They provide support for your cheeks and lips, which can give you a fuller, more youthful appearance.
Can I sleep with my dentures in?
It is generally recommended that you remove your dentures at night. This gives your gum tissues a chance to rest and allows your saliva to naturally clean your mouth.
Why Choose Crown Dental Group for Your Dentures?
Choosing the right dentist is the most important step. At Crown Dental Group, we combine compassionate care with advanced dental technology to serve the National City community. We don't just make dentures; we restore smiles. Our team takes the time to listen to your needs and meticulously craft a custom-fit appliance that is comfortable, functional, and beautiful.
Don't let missing teeth hold you back any longer. It's time to regain your confidence and enjoy the foods you love.
If you're ready to explore your options for dentures in National City, CA, we are here to help. For more information or to schedule your personal consultation, please contact Crown Dental Group today. You can learn more about our specific denture services on our main page: Crown Dental Dentures.
