Dentures

Dentures have been used for many years to replace groups of missing teeth or entire upper and lower arches of missing teeth. You may envision dentures to be clunky and conspicuous but today’s models are crafted from quality materials and new technology. They look more realistic and feel more comfortable than their predecessors. Dr. Maggie Abadan recommends dentures to many of her San Diego patients who have lost all or most of their teeth.

Common Causes of Tooth Loss

The primary cause of tooth loss is periodontal disease, or gum disease, which starts with the onslaught of plaque. Bacteria builds up and eventually creates infections that destroy the gums and bone structure that supports the teeth. Periodontal disease is the leading reason people over the age of 35 lose their teeth.

Another common cause of tooth loss is trauma — for example, after a car crash or sports accident in which the tooth is knocked out by contact to the mouth.

Some tooth loss can also be attributed to congenital absence (i.e., when a permanent tooth does not grow in to replace a baby tooth when it falls out). Others lose their teeth as the result of chronic grinding or clenching.

Treatment with Dentures

Dr. Abadan offers partial or complete dentures, depending on how many of your teeth are missing. Partial dentures fit into gaps between remaining teeth, so if you have several clusters of teeth still remaining, the denture prosthesis can “fill in the blanks.” They attach to nearby teeth. Complete dentures cover all of the teeth on your upper and/or lower jaw.

Fitting and making your customized dentures will take one to two months and require a few visits to Dr. Abadan’s San Diego dental practice. First, she will examine your mouth, removing any teeth that are damaged or diseased, and rehabilitating your gums if need be. Dr. Abadan will take impressions that will help the dental laboratory she works with to fabricate your custom set of dentures.

After the lab has finished making your dentures, you’ll return to Dr. Abadan’s office for a trial fitting. She will have you try the dentures on and examine the fit, making sure everything feels comfortable and looks natural. When you return for your final fitting, she will give you detailed instructions on how to eat and clean your dentures and take care of your mouth and gums.

Advantages of Dentures

Dentures allow you to eat, speak and smile normally with the confidence of a full beautiful set of teeth. They can be customized to fit in between any of your healthy existing teeth, or to replace an entire upper or lower jaw of teeth. Dentures are easy to clean and are crafted from durable materials that can last many years with the right care.

Learn More about Dentures

Looking for a reliable tooth replacement option? Learn more about dentures or dental implants by contacting Dr. Maggie Abadan at 858-350-7400.