6707 HWY 431 S. Suite 103 Owen's Cross Roads, AL 35763

Current Patients 256.534.1475

New Patients 256.202.4186

Dentures & PartialsOwens Cross Roads, AL

Dr. Elizabeth Duling provides dentures in Owens Cross Roads, AL. Dentures and partials are restorative dentistry services Dr. Duling offers the public. She can use dentures to replace multiple teeth or even full arches of missing teeth. We can also replace old dentures with new ones. Signs that you need a new denture can include changes in speech clarity, wear to the prosthetic teeth, and slipping dentures.

Modern dentures, especially dentures secured by dental implants, help revitalize the look and function of patient’s smiles. Dentures improve bone retention, provide a secure fit, and allow patients to eat the foods they love. Even if you have full arches of teeth missing, dentures are a durable and complete dental restoration that can renew the appearance of your smile.

Full and Partial Dentures in Owens Cross Roads, Alabama

Full and Partial Dentures

Partial dentures benefit patients who still have multiple natural teeth. They are made of clasps that attach to the remaining teeth. The bases and clasps of partial dentures are either metal or plastic and will blend in with your gum tissue. Complete dentures are for patients with no remaining teeth on the top or bottom jaw.

We can also provide patients with dentures on the same day as their tooth extraction. For a longer-lasting restoration, we can work with a local surgeon who can provide dental implants. Then, we can attach the denture to the implants in our office. Dental implants allow dentures to last many years without regular maintenance or repairs.

Receiving Dentures

Dr. Duling can provide removable dentures and the final restoration for implant-secured dentures. We take impressions for a removable denture made by a state-of-the-art dental lab. We’ll often provide you with a temporary restoration while the permanent one is being made. When it’s ready, we ensure it fits in our office. Removable dentures work with suction, so we’ll talk to you about preferred adhesives and cleansers for your new restoration.

For implant dentures, we will refer you to a local implant surgeon who can offer dental implant treatment before attaching the denture. The surgeon strategically places several dental implants during treatment to anchor the full or partial denture. Many patients may have a temporary denture placed while the dental implants heal and integrate with the jaw bone.

Removable Vs. Implant-Secured Dentures

The two main options for dentures are removable and implant-secured. Removable dentures have been the standard and are probably what comes to mind when you think of dentures. However, implant-secured dentures are becoming more popular due to their many benefits.

Removable Dentures

Removable dentures have replaced full arches of missing teeth for decades. Their base is gum-colored and supports acrylic teeth. We ensure the denture fits your mouth correctly and stays in your mouth with suction to your gums. Usually, patients require adhesive for them to stay in their mouths.

This type of denture is ideal for patients who are on a budget. They’re a good deal cheaper than implant-supported dentures. You can also get your restoration quicker, as the dental implant process takes months. Implant dentures require invasive surgery to place the implant posts in your jawbone, whereas removable ones do not. This also means that you don’t have to visit the office as frequently during the process.

However, removable dentures have drawbacks. Though they’re cheaper upfront, you incur costs over time. Your jawbone continues to grow and change, requiring relining or replacing your dentures. You’ll most likely need to buy adhesive to keep your dentures in your mouth. Even with suction, they’re prone to shifting and moving. The adhesive helps to prevent this movement. You can’t sleep with them in, either, because your gums need a rest. They can get sores and other complications if you wear your removable dentures too much.

Removable dentures require extra maintenance, too. You must clean them thoroughly each evening, removing the adhesive from the surface. Dentures require soaking overnight, too. This both sterilizes them and keeps them hydrated. Without regular soaking, the base becomes brittle and is prone to breaking.

Implant-Secured Dentures

Implant-secured dentures are our recommended choice for full-arch tooth replacement. Instead of using suction to keep the denture in your mouth, it attaches to as few as four dental implants placed in your jawbone. They’re a permanent fixture in your mouth that you don’t have to ever take out.

The most significant benefit of these is their stability. Dental implants osseointegrate with your jawbone, giving you back almost 100% of your bite function. You don’t have to worry about them slipping or moving in your mouth. While the upfront cost is more than removable dentures, you don’t have surprise costs in the future. The implants prevent further jawbone deterioration, so it won’t continue to change throughout the years.

They require less maintenance, too. You don’t need messy adhesives or special soaks. Simply brush your teeth like you would normally. Being easier to clean means you’re less likely to develop oral health issues. They look and feel the most like your natural teeth, and you adjust quickly. They promote better facial structure, eliminating the sagging face effect that comes with bone deterioration.

The main downside of this restoration is the cost. Dental implants require a surgical element, making them more expensive than removable dentures. They’re more invasive and take longer because of this, too. However, the benefits usually outweigh the negatives in most instances.

FAQs About Dentures

Dentures are a valuable solution to replace multiple missing teeth. Learn more by reading the answers to these commonly asked questions.

How many visits does it take to get dentures?

This depends on the type of dentures you are getting. A standard set of dentures should take about four to six visits. However, the process could take longer if you need extractions or any other dental work completed first. Also, you may need your dentist to adjust your dentures a few times before they fit perfectly. The denture implant process will take many more visits over several months.

Where should I keep my dentures overnight?

We recommend placing your dentures in a cup of tap water overnight. Before doing this, clean them with a non-abrasive brush and denture cleaner. This will keep your dentures clean and prevent them from drying out. Keeping your dentures from drying out entirely is essential because the acrylic will become dry and brittle.

How many hours a day can I wear my dentures?

You should remove your dentures daily for about six to eight hours. This is to give your gums a rest and to clean them properly. Most people do this at night while they are sleeping.

How long does it take to adjust to dentures?

Adjusting to dentures will differ from patient to patient. Most denture wearers report that it takes one to two months to acclimate to having them in. After consistent use, they will eventually feel completely normal.


Schedule a Dental Appointment

Do you want to restore the look and function of your teeth and gums? Try full or partial dentures in Owen’s Cross Roads, AL. Request a consultation with Dr. Duling online or call her Owens Cross Roads dental office at 256.202.4186.