Specialty Dentures

An Overview of Specialty Dentures

Specialty dentures are custom-designed dental prosthetics used to replace missing teeth. These dentures differ from traditional full or partial dentures in their design complexity, material choices, fit, and customization. You are a good candidate for specialty dentures if you have the following conditions:

• Multiple missing teeth. Basic dentures may not offer enough support if you have numerous missing teeth. Specialty dentures are designed to fit better and provide more stability. They can restore your smile and improve chewing.
• Jawbone loss. Over time, tooth loss can cause your jawbone to shrink. It makes standard dentures hard to fit. Specialty dentures, such as implant-supported ones, can stay in place even with bone loss. They prevent slipping and feel more secure.
• Discomfort with regular dentures. If your current dentures cause pain or sores, they may not fit. Specialty dentures are customized to match your mouth’s exact shape. They reduce pressure points and help avoid irritation.
• Frequent denture slipping. Moving when you chew or talk is a common problem with traditional options. Specialty dentures, like those anchored by implants, stay firmly in place. They allow you to speak and chew confidently.
• Changes in facial appearance. Tooth loss can cause a sunken face or sagging jawline. Your cheeks and lips will be better supported with specialty dentures. They help bring out your natural facial contours and enhance your overall natural look.
• Difficulties with eating certain foods. Your dentures may not be strong or stable enough if you steer clear of tough or chewy food. Specialty dentures also enhance chewing power, meaning you can start enjoying more foods.
• Speech problems. Difficulty pronouncing words with dentures may signify a poor fit. Specialty dentures offer a more natural feel and better control when speaking.

Types of Specialty Dentures

Dentures are custom-made replacements for missing teeth. While traditional dentures are ordinary, specialty dentures offer more advanced options. Specialty dentures are designed for comfort, function, and appearance. Common types of specialty dentures include:

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures are anchored by dental implants placed in the jawbone. These implants act like tooth roots, offering a stable base for the dentures. These dentures are ideal for those who have lost most or all of their teeth but still have enough bone density. Implant-supported dentures do not slip or move while speaking or eating. Therefore, they provide a secure and natural feel. They also help prevent bone loss in the jaw.

Snap-In Dentures

Snap-in dentures, or overdentures, are secured to implants or remaining teeth through specialized snap-on attachments. They come on and off easily for cleaning and fit perfectly. Unlike fixed dentures, you can remove them when you see fit or at night. Snap-in dentures are a common choice for those desiring stability but not wanting permanency. They are also easier to adjust if necessary down the line.

Partial Dentures

Your dentist can recommend partial dentures when you have a few natural remaining teeth. They fill in the gaps and help prevent surrounding teeth from shifting. These dentures often include a metal or acrylic base with clasps or precision attachments. Partial dentures restore function and aesthetics, allowing normal eating and speaking. The partial dentures are more affordable than other specialty options.

Flexible Dentures

Flexible dentures are made from soft, flexible materials like nylon. They are lightweight and bend easily. Their material offers greater comfort than rigid acrylic options. These dentures are ideal for people with sensitive gums or allergies to traditional materials. Flexible dentures blend with the natural gum color, making them less noticeable. They are also less likely to break if you accidentally drop them.

Immediate Dentures

A dentist places immediate dentures right after the teeth extraction. This means that patients leave the dental office with a complete set of teeth on the same day. These dentures help protect the extraction site and support the healing process. The gums and bones shrink during healing. Therefore, immediate dentures may need relining or replacement. They are often a temporary solution before receiving a more permanent denture.

Custom Dentures

Custom dentures are made with denser materials that give them a more lifelike appearance and are designed to fit each individual’s mouth. These dentures are made to match natural teeth and gums in color, shape, and positioning. Due to this attention to detail, custom dentures are also more comfortable and visually appealing. Patients who want their dentures to look as natural as possible should consider custom dentures.

Specialty Dentures Procedure

The process of fitting your specialty dentures takes the following steps:

Initial Dental Exam

The process starts with a visit to your dentist or prosthodontist. The dentist will carefully examine your mouth, checking your gums, bone structure, and remaining teeth. They may also order X-rays or 3D scans to view your oral condition. An extensive assessment helps determine the correct specialty denture type for you.

Impressions and Measurements

After the exam, your dentist takes impressions of your mouth. The dentist places a soft material over your gums and teeth to capture their exact shape. In many modern clinics, dentists use digital scanners instead. These impressions are sent to a dental lab, where your custom dentures are designed for a perfect fit.

Tooth Extractions

This is the next step if you need any teeth to be extracted due to damage or decay. There is no discomfort, as your dentist will provide local anesthesia. You will also need several weeks of healing afterwards before final dentures. In the meantime, your dentist can provide you with a temporary denture to assist you with speaking.

Design and Try-In Phase

The dentist fits a trial denture made from wax in your mouth. It allows your dentist to check bite alignment, appearance, and comfort. You will see how your new smile will look. Any necessary changes are made before creating the final dentures.

Fabrication of Final Dentures

The final set is made in a dental lab when everything looks and feels right. High-quality materials like acrylic or porcelain are used for strength and a natural look. Fabricating your final dentures often takes several weeks.

Implant Placement

For implant-supported dentures, titanium implants are surgically placed in the jawbone. Healing can take several months as the bone bonds with the implants. After healing, the dentist will attach the dentures to the implants for better stability.

Fitting and Adjustments

When your dentures are ready, you will return to your dentist’s office to fit them. The dentist will check for comfort, speech, and bite alignment during the fitting. Minor adjustments are standard in the first few weeks. Regular follow-ups help keep everything working well.

Learning to Use Your Dentures

Your mouth may take a while to adjust to the specialty dentures. Speaking and eating may feel different at first. Most people adjust within a few weeks with daily practice. You should follow your dentist’s tips to ease the transition.

Aftercare Instructions for Specialty Dentures

Proper care of your specialty dentures helps maintain their function, comfort, and appearance. Standard care instructions your dentist can give you after your procedure include:

• Clean your dentures every day. Your dentures should be cleaned daily with an ultra-soft toothbrush and non-abrasive cleaner. Regular toothpaste is abrasive and can scratch the surface. First, rinse them to take off loose food. Then lightly brush all surfaces to clean off plaque and avoid staining.
• Soak your dentures overnight. Dentures need to stay moist to keep their shape. Soak them in a denture cleaning solution or plain water overnight. If you use a cleaner, you must follow the product instructions.
• Handle with care. You should always handle your dentures gently. Hold them over a folded towel or a sink filled with water to reduce the risk of dropping them. Avoid bending or applying pressure to any part, especially the clasps on partial dentures.
• Rinse after every meal. After eating, remove your dentures and rinse them under warm water. It helps wash away food particles and prevents build-up. If you cannot remove them, swish water in your mouth. Clean dentures help maintain fresh breath and avoid infections.
• Clean your mouth. Even without teeth, your mouth needs care. Use a soft toothbrush or damp gauze to clean your gums, tongue, and inner cheeks. This removes bacteria and stimulates circulation in the tissue. It also helps keep your breath fresh.
• Monitor the fit for changes. Your jaw and gums will change shape over time. This change can make dentures feel ill-fitting or as if they are rubbing in the mouth. Poorly fitting dentures can cause pain, sores, or difficulty chewing. If dentures are painful or loose, you should consult your dentist.
• Avoid hard or sticky foods. Hard or sticky foods can damage your dentures or cause them to shift. You should avoid nuts, hard candy, chewing gum, and caramel. Cut tough foods into smaller pieces and chew slowly. Choose softer foods, especially when you are still adjusting to your dentures.
• Visit your dentist regularly. Your dental visits should not stop when you receive your dentures. In addition to making follow-up appointments, you should schedule dental checkups at least once a year. Your dentist will check the fit, clean the dentures professionally, and examine your mouth. If the dentist detects early signs of irritation, infection, or damage, they can address them before they cause further complications.

Complications of Specialty Dentures

Specialty dentures offer improved comfort and function. They are more precise and customized than standard dentures. However, they can still lead to complications. Understanding these issues helps you make informed decisions and maintain your oral health. The complications include:

Poor Fit and Discomfort

Specialty dentures are custom-made, but they may still cause discomfort. A poor fit can lead to sore spots on the gums. This may happen due to bone loss, weight changes, or errors in the mold. Ill-fitting dentures can shift while talking or eating.

Speech Difficulties

Dentures can affect how you speak. Even with specialty dentures, some words may sound unclear. Patients may lisp or slur certain sounds. Although your speech may improve with practice, some people may not adjust. In this case, you will need frequent adjustments.

Chewing Problems

Some patients struggle to chew effectively, as specialty dentures may still limit biting force. Sticky or hard foods can be challenging to manage. Improper chewing may lead to poor digestion and cause embarrassment when eating in public.

Bone Loss

Bone loss in the jaw continues even if one has good-fitting dentures. The underlying bone begins to atrophy when teeth are lost. It will alter facial contours and denture fit. Eventually, patients will require new dentures to reflect these changes. Implant-supported dentures can alleviate this issue.

Gum Infections and Irritation

Dentures can irritate soft tissues in the mouth. If not cleaned properly, bacteria and fungi can grow, resulting in denture stomatitis. Symptoms of gum infection include redness, soreness, and swelling. Good hygiene and regular checkups help prevent the condition.

Breakage or Wear

Though durable, specialty dentures can still break. Dropping them or biting something hard may cause cracks. Teeth on the denture may wear down over time. A broken denture may need repair or full replacement.

Adjustment and Maintenance Needs

Specialty dentures need a maintenance plan. You will require several visits for fittings and alterations. Relining is necessary as the mouth changes. Implant-supported restorations should be cleaned just like natural teeth. If care is neglected, complications or denture failure can occur.

Cost of Specialty Dentures

Specialty dentures are a significant investment in oral health and quality of life. However, their cost is a significant aspect you must consider before going through with the procedure. The cost of specialty dentures varies depending on many factors. Understanding these factors can help you plan better and avoid unexpected expenses. They include:

• Type of Denture

The type of denture you choose plays a significant role in pricing. Full dentures replace all the upper while partials fill gaps when you have remaining natural teeth. Implant-supported and snap-in dentures offer added stability and comfort. However, they come at a much higher price due to surgical procedures and advanced technology. Your dentist will guide you through choosing the dentures that fall within your budget.

• Materials Used

Dentures can be made from various materials, including acrylic, porcelain, and metal. Higher-end materials look more natural and last longer, but they cost more. For example, porcelain is more expensive than acrylic due to its durability and realistic appearance.

• Customization Level

Highly customized dentures are designed to match your natural gum line, bite, and facial structure. The precision increases the cost due to the extra time and skill involved.

• Number of Implants Required

For implant-supported dentures, the number of implants needed affects the cost. More implants mean more components and higher material costs. Even a difference of one or two implants can shift the total price by several thousand dollars.

• Geographic Location

Dentures cost more in cities or states with a higher cost of living. Due to labor costs and clinic overhead, the same denture could cost more in California than in a rural area.

• Dentist’s Experience and Reputation

Highly experienced dentists or prosthodontists may charge more for their expertise. While this increases the upfront cost, it often leads to better results and fewer adjustments later.

• Need for Additional Dental Procedures

Before denture fitting, procedures such as tooth extractions, bone grafts, or gum treatments may be required. These procedures increase the cost of your dentures.

• Financing and Insurance

Depending on the individual plan, some insurance plans may cover all or part of the cost. Many dental offices also have payment plans, which are made over time. This reduces the price of the treatment.

Find a Competent Cosmetic Dentist Near Me

Dentures provide a reliable method of tooth replacement. However, not all dentures are the same. Traditional dentures can lack the comfort or functionality for patients with individual oral health challenges. Therefore, your dentist can recommend specialty dentures if you suffer from significant bone loss, an irregular jaw shape, or highly sensitive gums.

These dentures are designed to meet specific structural and aesthetic needs. With many specialty dentures available, your dentist can help you choose the one that fits your needs. Some factors you can consider include your desired outlook, your budget, and the extent of your tooth loss.

Fitting dentures includes an initial assessment, treatment planning, adjustments, and final fabrication. With the right materials and expert craftsmanship, you can experience long-lasting and natural results. At Calabasas Smiles Advanced Dentistry, we offer safe and reliable cosmetic dental services for our Calabasas, CA, clients. Contact us at 818-878-7300 today for a consultation.