Missing teeth are embarrassing for people's smiles. But that's not the only thing. It's detrimental to a person's ability to eat and speak. With Dr. Jeanette Murphy of Monroe, MI, you don't have to worry about feeling embarrassed. She provides her patients with several teeth-replacement treatments like dentures.

What are dentures?

Dentures are removable dental appliances that replace missing teeth. This acrylic resin prosthetic device also supports surrounding soft and hard tissues.

Types Of Dentures

• Complete dentures replace all the teeth. They are also called "conventional" or "immediate" dentures and made using models of the patient`s jaws. Complete dentures don't require temporary dentures during the healing process or phase (6-8 weeks) but may need rebasing because of gum shrinkage.
   
• Partial dentures fill in spaces between missing teeth and prevent teeth from moving or changing position. Removable partial dentures consist of teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored plastic base. Your Monroe dentist uses metal clasps to attach to natural teeth.

How are dentures made?

It takes about a month and five appointments to get them done:

1. An initial diagnosis is made and an impression taken using a wax bite. Additional measurements and your tooth color are noted to make sure dentures match the natural shade of your teeth.
    
2. The dental laboratory carves a mold out of a wax base and a "wax try-in" of the denture is used at your dentist's office to ensure measurements are accurate and to allow your doctor to make any necessary adjustments.
    
3. Finally, the dental laboratory uses the "lost wax" technique to finish making the dentures that are eventually heated to harden and polished so they're ready to wear.

Benefits Of Dentures

• They replace missing teeth which increases self-esteem
• Dentures support facial muscles and give you a beautiful smile
• Dentures improve your ability to speak and eat

Care For Dentures

There are several things to take into consideration when caring for your teeth. Make sure you stand over a sink full of water when removing or wearing dentures so they don't accidentally drop and break. Brush the denture with a denture brush to remove food deposits and use denture cleansers.

Thinking of getting dentures?

If you'd like to speak more about dentures and their benefits, please contact Dr. Jeanette Murphy of Monroe, MI, by calling (734) 242-4744.