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Custom Dentures for a Confident Smile
Losing teeth can significantly impact your daily life—not only in terms of discomfort and difficulty eating but also by diminishing your self-confidence. Fortunately, Dr. Dina Nuhfer, your local dentist in North East, PA, provides high-quality custom dentures to help you restore both function and appearance. Whether you’re missing several teeth or need a full-mouth restoration, dentures can provide a long-lasting solution.
Are you curious about how the denture process works? Here’s what you can expect when you choose our North East, PA, dental office for your denture needs. To schedule an appointment, call us today at (814) 725-4700.
Steps in the Denture Process
The process of getting dentures typically involves several key steps. Depending on the type of dentures you need—whether immediate dentures, partial dentures, or full dentures—the procedure may vary slightly. Here’s a breakdown of the typical denture process:
1. Initial Consultation
The first step to receiving dentures in North East is scheduling a consultation with Dr. Nuhfer. During this visit, your dental health will be evaluated, and we’ll discuss your specific needs, goals, and options. This thorough assessment helps create a tailored treatment plan, factoring in:
- The number of missing teeth
- The health of your gums and jawbone
- Potential complications such as gum disease or bone loss
2. Impressions and Measurements
Once dentures are chosen as the right solution for you, Dr. Nuhfer will take precise impressions of your mouth, including your gums and any remaining natural teeth. These impressions will be used to create a mold, ensuring your custom dentures fit comfortably and securely. The measurements are sent to our top-tier dental lab in our office to fabricate your dentures with the highest quality materials.
3. Wax Model Try-In
Before crafting your final dentures, a wax model is created. This model allows you to preview how your dentures will fit and appear. Adjustments can be made at this stage to ensure a perfect fit, both aesthetically and functionally.
4. Final Denture Fitting
After any necessary modifications, your permanent dentures will be made. During your final fitting, Dr. Nuhfer will check the fit and make any fine-tuning adjustments to ensure maximum comfort and stability.
5. Follow-up Appointments
Adjusting to new dentures takes time, which is why follow-up visits are crucial. Dr. Nuhfer will monitor your progress, check the fit, and provide guidance on caring for your dentures. Regular checkups are essential to maintaining both your oral health and the longevity of your dentures.
Do You Need Tooth Extraction Before Getting Dentures?
In some cases, tooth extractions are required before receiving full or partial dentures. If it’s necessary to get your teeth extracted, Dr. Nuhfer will carefully extract any problematic teeth, using local anesthesia for your comfort. Post-extraction healing is critical, and once your gums have fully healed, the process of creating your dentures can begin.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
With proper care, traditional dentures can last anywhere from five and 10 years. Several factors influence the lifespan of dentures, including:
- Material Quality: Dentures crafted from high-quality materials are more durable and long-lasting.
- Oral Hygiene: Regular cleaning of your dentures and maintaining good oral hygiene will extend their lifespan.
- Fit Adjustments: Over time, the shape of your mouth may change. Periodic adjustments by Dr. Nuhfer ensure continued comfort.
- Denture Type: The type of dentures you have (complete denture, partial denture, implant-supported denture) can impact their lifespan. Implant-supported dentures, for example, tend to be more stable and durable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the denture process take?
The process of receiving custom dentures can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the type of dentures and your specific needs. The steps include creating an initial model, crafting the final dentures, and making any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit.
Are there different types of dentures available?
Yes, there are several types of dentures to choose from based on your specific needs. Full dentures replace all teeth in the upper and lower jaws, while partial dentures replace only a few missing teeth and are secured by clasps that attach to neighboring teeth. Additionally, implant-supported dentures use dental implants for enhanced stability and comfort.
Achieve a Complete, Healthy Smile With Dentures
At Dr. Nuhfer’s North East, PA, dental office, our goal is to ensure you’re completely satisfied with your custom dentures. The process may take some time, but the end result is well worth it—allowing you to smile, eat, and speak with confidence again.
If you’re ready to explore the benefits of dentures, schedule your consultation today by calling (814) 725-4700. We proudly serve patients in North East, Erie, Ripley, and Findley Lake, PA.