Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures

Having a smile you are proud of can give you the confidence you need. A new set of dentures or a partial can help create a beautiful, natural looking smile for our patients. We look forward to helping our patients gain confidence as they show off their pearly whites. As your trusted dentist in Springfield, MO, we are here to help answer your questions about our denture service. Take a look below for answers to some frequently asked questions.

What's the difference between replacement dentures and immediate dentures?

Replacement dentures are new dentures for patients who already have an existing full or partial denture that needs to be replaced.

What is a partial denture? 

Partial dentures are removable dental appliances for patients who need to replace just a few missing teeth. (Full dentures replace all of your teeth, either upper, lower or both.) Arches are made consisting of replacement teeth and are attached with clasps to the remaining natural teeth for support and retention. Partial dentures can be used on the upper or lower arches.

Will people know I wear dentures? 

Our dentures are custom-crafted by hand to ensure a natural, life-like appearance. The acrylic has fibers throughout so it looks like real gum tissue. Plus, we provide our patients the choice of teeth in different shapes and sizes with shading and blending that mimics natural tooth enamel. We also work hard to provide you with the best possible fit to avoid slipping, clicking and slurred speech. The only thing people will notice is your beautiful, natural looking smile.

How quickly will I adjust to dentures? 

Your tongue, lips and cheeks will quickly and naturally adapt to the new shape of your mouth. Most people adjust to their new dentures in about a week.

How will dentures affect my speech? 

The ability to speak clearly depends on subtle interactions involving your tongue, teeth, lips, cheeks and the roof of your mouth. A denture that's properly fitted allows all five components to work together naturally. With a new denture, you may initially notice some minor differences in speech. Most patients find they adapt and speech becomes natural very quickly. Ill-fitting dentures may slip which can cause clicking and whistling sounds and/or slightly slurred speech. Your dentist may be able to adjust the fit by relining or repairing the denture.

How will dentures affect my eating?

Properly fitted dentures enhance your chewing ability, helping your body properly digest food and obtain the nutrition it needs. You can enjoy the foods you love.

How will dentures affect my appearance?

A new, properly fitted denture will help you look better by providing the support your lips need, and by giving your face and smile a more natural appearance. Having good-looking teeth also gives you the confidence and freedom to smile and live life to the fullest. A tell-tale sign that it's time to replace your dentures- when you notice sagging facial muscles, excessive wrinkling and protruding lower jaw.

Should I remove my dentures at night? 

Your dentist will provide instructions about how long dentures should be kept in place. If you are an immediate denture patient, you may be advised to wear them most of the time, including while you sleep to help promote healing. After the initial adjustment period, you may be instructed to remove the dentures before going to bed. This allows gum tissues to rest and promotes oral health. According to the American Dental Association, as a general rule, it is not a good idea for tissues to be constantly covered by denture material.

Should I use adhesives? 

Some dentists suggest a light coating of adhesive, especially for lower dentures to improve suction. Excessive use of adhesive however, probably means your denture no longer fits properly and either needs adjusting or replacing. Talk with your dentist to find out what's best for you and your dentures.

Do I need any special care for my mouth if I wear full dentures? 

Even with full dentures, you still need to take good care of your mouth. Every morning, brush your gums, tongue and palate with a standard soft-bristled toothbrush before you put in your dentures. This removes plaque and stimulates circulation in the mouth.

Is it natural to have sore spots on my gums? 

No. Sore spots are an indication that your denture does not fit properly and is rubbing on your tissue. Your dentist needs to assess what is causing the irritation.

How long will dentures last?

With normal wear and care most dentures should last 5 to 7 years. The American Dental Association recommends replacement after that time due to the wearing down of the acrylic and tooth materials. Plus, the bone and tissue in your mouth change as you age, so your denture won't fit your mouth as well as it should. When a denture is not fitting properly, health problems often result.

Getting dentures may seem like an intimidating process but we make it easy and comfortable. Here at Access Dental & Dentures, we custom make your set to fit to your mouth and make any adjustments to ensure you are comfortable. The adjustment time is short and well worth the investment for a beautiful smile!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile!

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Springfield Office          Rolla Office          Osage Beach Office      Mountain Grove Office
(417) 501-1048              (573) 426-5447        (573) 348-1466                       (417) 926-1160
1701 West Sunshine      416 S. Bishop Ave.  4320 Osage Beach Pkwy       921 N. Main St.

Springfield, MO 65807   Rolla, MO 65401     Osage Beach, MO. 65065       Mountain Grove

Quick Denture Care Tips

Dentures are a wonderful appliance to help keep the look and feel of natural teeth. It's a great way to offer the appearance and function of a full set of teeth. As your trusted dentist in southern Missouri, we know how important it is to care for your dentures. Here at Access Dental and Dentures, we want to help you properly care for your dentures.

Brush, Brush, Brush

Dentures need to be cleaned, just like teeth. It's important to brush your dentures at least one time a day, preferably at the end of the day. This can help remove food particles and germs that may build up on or between your teeth. Regular brushing can help prevent stains from forming on your dentures, as well. Cleaning your dentures well helps to ensure you have cleaned off all the plaque and germs that may gather throughout the day.

Brush Your Gums

Even though you brush your dentures, it's still important to brush your gums. This can help to remove any plaque that may build up on your gum surface, as well help to rid your mouth of bad breath. Brushing also helps to stimulate your gums which helps to promote healthy circulation.

Place a Towel Below

When handling your dentures, be sure to have a soft surface below you. If you do happen to drop your dentures, landing on a hard surface can crack, chip, or damage them. When placing your dentures in the morning, try to have a soft towel on the counter top to avoid damage, should they slip out of your hand.

Soak Your Dentures

When you are not wearing your dentures don't let them dry out. Place them in a denture cleanser solution or in plain water when they are not in use. Avoid using hot water because this can cause your dentures to warp and not fit well.

Schedule Regular Adjustments & Check Ups

Regular dentist visits are important, especially when you have dentures. While it's important to make regular check-up appointments with your dentist, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment if anything happens to your dentures. Whether it's a break or they start rubbing uncomfortably, it's important to make adjustments right away to avoid any further damage or discomfort!

Dentures are an investment in your smile and our dentist in Springfield, MO wants to help you properly care for them. If you are interested in getting dentures made, contact Access Dental & Dentures today. We can schedule an appointment to get the process started and get you on your way to a beautiful smile!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile!

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Connect with us on LinkedIn
Follow us on Google+





Springfield Office          Rolla Office          Osage Beach Office      Mountain Grove Office
(417) 501-1048              (573) 426-5447        (573) 348-1466                       (417) 926-1160
1701 West Sunshine      416 S. Bishop Ave.  4320 Osage Beach Pkwy       921 N. Main St.

Springfield, MO 65807   Rolla, MO 65401     Osage Beach, MO. 65065       Mountain Grove

Tips to Protect Your Dentures

If you wear partial or a full set of dentures, it's important to care for them properly. As your trusted dentist in Springfield, MO, we know how vital it is to the longevity of your dentures to take good care of them. If you are new to wearing dentures or need a quick refresher on proper care, Access Dental and Dentures has provided some great information for you below. Check out these tips and start improving the way you care for your dentures today!

Brush, Brush, Brush

Dentures need to be cleaned, just like teeth. It's important to brush your dentures at least one time a day, preferably at the end of the day. This can help remove food particles and germs that may build up on or between your teeth. Regular brushing can help prevent stains from forming on your dentures, as well. Cleaning your dentures well helps to ensure you have cleaned off all the plaque and germs that may gather throughout the day.

Brush Your Gums

Even though you brush your dentures, it's still important to brush your gums. This can help to remove any plaque that may build up on your gum surface, as well help to rid your mouth of bad breath. Brushing also helps to stimulate your gums which helps to promote healthy circulation.

Place a Towel Below You

When handling your dentures, be sure to have a soft surface below you. If you do happen to drop your dentures, landing on a hard surface can crack, chip, or damage them. When placing your dentures in the morning, try to have a soft towel on the counter top to avoid damage, should they slip out of your hand.

Soak Your Dentures

When you are not wearing your dentures don't let them dry out. Place them in a denture cleanser solution or in plain water when they are not in use. Avoid using hot water because this can cause your dentures to warp and not fit well.

Schedule Regular Adjustments & Check Ups

Regular dentist visits are important, especially when you have dentures. While it's important to make regular check-up appointments with your dentist, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment if anything happens to your dentures. Whether it's a break or they start rubbing uncomfortably, it's important to make adjustments right away to avoid any further damage or discomfort!

Dentures can help your mouth appear and function like natural teeth. Dentures are also an investment and should be cared for properly to help keep them in proper working order. If you wear full or partial dentures, it's important to clean and care for them in the right way. Don't slack on denture care because they may break or wear improperly and need to be replaced sooner than normal. In order to save yourself money on your dentures, proper care can help them last as long as possible!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile!

Like us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Connect with us on LinkedIn
Follow us on Google+





Springfield Office          Rolla Office          Osage Beach Office      Mountain Grove Office
(417) 501-1048              (573) 426-5447        (573) 348-1466                       (417) 926-1160
1701 West Sunshine      416 S. Bishop Ave.  4320 Osage Beach Pkwy       921 N. Main St.

Springfield, MO 65807   Rolla, MO 65401     Osage Beach, MO. 65065       Mountain Grove