Get All Your Denture Questions Answered!

If you don't have the confidence you wish you had because you aren't happy with your smile, Access Dental and Dentures could help you! We are the best dentists in southern Missouri and we can help create a beautiful smile with a new set of dentures or partials. We are here to help answer all of your questions about dentures, how they work, and how they fit into your life. Keep reading to get your top questions answered!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Missouri Dental Care

While you might be worried about getting dentures, Access Dental and Dentures is here for you to make the process easier and as pain free as possible. We even make your denture set custom, onsite. We can also make any necessary adjustments to make sure you are comfortable with your set. Get the smile you deserve from Access Dental and Dentures!

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

1-877-DENTIST

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Everything There is to Know About Tooth Enamel

Dental hygiene is an important part of overall health. Most people know that brushing your teeth twice a day and regularly flossing are good habits to have in order to keep your mouth health and happy. But, do you know why it's important, or how your teeth are constructed and protected? Access Dental is the best dentist in southern Missouri because we care about your oral health and helping you have a better dental care routine. Keep reading to learn today's important health tips about tooth enamel, what it is, and how to take care of it.

What is enamel?

Enamel is the protective layer on the outside of your teeth. It is very hard and clear. The color of your teeth actually comes from a different layer under the enamel, called dentin. Because enamel is clear, so it can be hard for someone without dental training to tell if there is any damage or early decay. That is one of the reasons it is important to regularly visit your local dentist, so they can catch problems early before cavities start.

Once enamel is gone, can it heal?

While many parts of our bodies can heal, tooth enamel is not one of those things. Enamel isn't made up of living cells, so it can't replicate and heal spots that have been cracked, worn down, or damaged. In short, no. Once enamel is gone, it is permanent. This is why it is important to help keep your enamel strong by regularly taking care of your teeth and using toothpastes and mouth washes that deposit strengthening minerals to the surface of your teeth.

What damages enamel?

Even though enamel is the hardest material in the human body, certain things can start to erode the enamel as they sit on your teeth. The biggest problem can often be acidic items like carbonated drinks, fruit juices, and coffee. Other huge issues can be sugary substances and starchy foods, both of which stick to teeth easily and can cause damage if not brushed, flossed, and rinsed away. Bacteria from plaque buildup can also cause erosion of the enamel.

How does enamel protect teeth?

The layer of your tooth underneath the enamel is made up of a more sensitive material called dentin. When dentin gets exposed to open air and bacteria, it can cause tooth sensitivity, tooth decay, cavities, and even more serious conditions. Enamel protects this more sensitive inner layer from damage and decay, so it's important to keep it healthy.

Be proactive and protect your enamel

Help take care of your enamel by following these tips...

• Limit the amount of sugar and starch in your diet
• Avoid overly acidic foods and drinks
• Brush your teeth or use mouthwash or water to rinse away damaging foods and drinks
• Use oral health products that strengthen your teeth
• Regularly visit your dentist to check your enamel and remove damaging plaque!

As the best dentist in southern Missouri, Access Dental is here to help you with all your dental health needs. We care about your dental health because we know how much it can affect your overall health and well being. Give us a call today and schedule an appointment to make sure your dental health is in the best shape possible!

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

1-877-DENTIST

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Are Bleeding Gums Serious?

Every now and then, you may notice that your gums have started bleeding while you're flossing, or maybe even during a regular tooth brushing. Is this cause for alarm? Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist in Southeast Missouri and we are here to help answer your questions about gum health and what it could mean if yours are bleeding. Keep reading to learn more!

Bad Brushing

Bleeding gums could simply be caused by bad, or incorrect, brushing techniques. If you tend to brush your teeth very hard with a hard-bristled toothbrush, then it could simply mean that you are being too aggressive and need to pull back a bit. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush in gentle circles to avoid causing damage to your gums while brushing. 

You could also be on the other end of the spectrum and not be brushing your teeth often enough. If you tend to forget to brush your teeth often, then when you do start to take care of your teeth again, they may have become sensitive. They won't be used to your brushing and that could be the reason for the bleeding. 

For healthier brushing habits, be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush at least two times a day with a steady, circular motion that doesn't wear on your gums. 

Gum Disease

A more serious cause of bleeding gums would be the gum disease gingivitis. This is actually a fairly common condition that causes inflammation in the gums due to plaque buildup at the gumline. Your gums will appear swollen and redder near the base of your tooth. If you have this condition, then any type of pressure - even proper tooth brushing - can cause your gums to bleed. It is important to seek medical, dental attention if you have developed gum disease. 

When to Contact Your Dentist

A little bit of blood from your gums is not always a bad thing. It could just mean that you've picked flossing back up after a long break and your teeth aren't accustomed to it yet. But, if you are regularly noticing blood in the sick every day - especially if you also notice pain or swelling in your gums - then it is probably time to call your local dentist. Access Dental and Dentures is the best local dentist, and we would be happy to help you find out what is causing your gum issues and help fix them!

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

1-877-DENTIST

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Help Prevent Bad Breath with These Tips!

If you suffer from bad breath, it's important to know that it could be more serious than just an annoying odor. Persistent bad breath could mean that your teeth are experiencing decay and that you are missing an important part of your dental hygiene routine. Never fear! Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist in southern Missouri, and we are here to help you! Keep reading to learn more about how to help prevent bad breath.

Don't Use an Old Toothbrush

Your toothbrush may be the problem if you have consistently bad breath. As your toothbrush gets old and worn out, it can start to grow bacteria and become a source of bad odors itself. This is not something you want to be brushing all over your mouth. Gross! Your toothbrush should be replaced every three months. But, keep in mind, if you are a more aggressive brusher or if you buy brands that wear out more quickly, you may want to replace it more often. Check regularly to see if bristles have started thinning, losing color, or bending. That means it's time to replace.

Brush Regularly

Brushing your teeth twice a day is one of the most important things you can do to keep your oral health and teeth in good condition. Bad breath could mean you aren't brushing your teeth enough or as well as you should be. If bad breath is a problem for you, it could be a good idea to start brushing every time you eat a meal. This can help remove any food particles and germs that would otherwise grow in your mouth and cause bad breath.

Floss Every Day

Flossing each day is very important in order to clean the hard-to-reach spaces in your mouth. Stuck food pieces may not always come out with daily brushing, and many toothbrushes can't even reach the space between your teeth. If food particles sit in between your teeth all day or night, they can start to smell due to bacterial growth and buildup. To reduce the chance of this happening, floss at least once a day! It could even be beneficial to run floss through your teeth after every meal.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking water is not only helpful to your teeth because of the fluoride content, but it can also help flush out bacteria, food pieces, and bad smells. Saliva is also an important factor in keeping your breath fresh and bacteria away. If you are dehydrated, the dryness in your mouth could be allowing bacteria to flourish. Ew!

Clean Your Tongue

Every morning, scrape your tongue to remove any bacteria or other particles that may have accumulated on the surface. This can help decrease the bacteria, fungi, and dead cells that buildup and cause bad breath. Try to scrape the entire surface of your tongue to get the best results. There are several tools that you can use in order to do this. Or, you can even use a small spoon! Just be careful not to scrape your teeth.

Your Dental Health

To help prevent bad breath, be sure to replace your toothbrush, brush at least twice a day, floss regularly, scrape your tongue, and keep yourself well hydrated! If you have tried all of these things and still suffer from bad breath, then it's probably time to ask for help. At your next visit to the best dentist in southern MO, ask our friendly staff for suggestions. Access Dental can help you find the right solution for your bad breath. Give us a call!

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

1-877-DENTIST

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Smile for Health!

Did you know that smiling can actually be good for your health? Access Dental and Dentures is the expert on dental health and what a strong, healthy smile can do for you! Today we are talking about what your smile could do for you. Keep reading to learn more!

Make a Good Impression

When you first meet someone - whether it is a new friend, a potential employer, or a customer - you want to make a good first impression. First impressions can last for a long time and are usually formed within the first few seconds of meeting someone. Smiling can help make you seem more approachable, friendly, and open. Keep your smile healthy with regular dentist visits to Access Dental, and let your smile work for you!

It's Healthy!

Believe it or not, the physical act of smiling can help banish feelings of stress by releasing endorphins in your body. When you smile, your brain associates the act with being happy and can sometimes be tricked into thinking you ARE actually happier when you smile. Smiling has even been studied to release serotonin, which is a natural painkiller. If you have noticed that your day isn't going well or that you can't shake the fog of a bad mood, try smiling for a minute or two and see what happens!

Smiling is Easy!

It may not always feel like it when you're having a bad day, but smiling actually takes less muscular effort than a frown does. Smiling is easier on your face, allowing more muscles to rest instead of straining in a frown. Keep your face looking young with fewer frown lines.

Dental Health

Smiling can help boost your confidence and even improve health as we've discussed. But it can be hard to smile confidently when you aren't proud of your smile. Take care of your teeth and oral health by scheduling a dental appointment with the best dentist in southern Missouri - Access Dental and Dentures! We can help you get to the smile you've always imagined for a healthier and happier lifestyle.

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

1-877-DENTIST

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Immune-Boosting Tips This Season

Access Dental is the best dentist in the Springfield area, and we care about your health! Today we are talking about how to help you stay as healthy as possible in every season. While there's nothing that can guarantee you won't get sick, there are a lot of things you can do to help boost your immune system and help it fight off illness. Keep reading to learn important health tips from our team!

Reduce Sugar

Too much sugar and carbs can negatively affect your health in a big way. If you overindulge on these substances regularly, it can cause weight gain and inflammation. The inflammation can make your immune system have to work harder. With all that extra work, your immune system may be too worn out to fight off infection when it encounters a virus. Sugar also sticks to your teeth and gums which can cause bacterial buildup and decay. If your immune system has to consistently fight off germs from sugary food particles in your teeth, then it could be less effective at keeping you healthy.

Drink Plenty of Water

While water doesn't kill viruses or bacteria, it can help improve a lot of areas of your health and behavior that do help fight off infection. When your body is hydrated, you will likely have more energy and focus, better digestion, and improved circulation. All of these things help take the burden off of your immune system so that it can work better when it encounters a sickness.

Get Lots of Sleep

When you are sleep deprived, your can't function as well and your immune system could have a difficult time preventing infections. If you lose a couple of hours of sleep here and there, you may think that it doesn't make a difference. But, your body can actually hold onto a sleep deficit for several weeks! Help your immune system keep you healthier in every season by regularly getting seven to eight hours of sleep every night.

Schedule Regular Check-Ups

Regular check-ups with your doctor (and your dentist!) are important to make sure you are doing well and staying healthy! Your doctor may find something that you weren't even aware of and can help treat it before it develops into a bigger problem. This is especially true for your dental health. What you might think is just a little tooth pain could actually be a deeper issue like a cavity or developing gum disease. Our experts at Access Dental can help you actively take care of your dental health. Give us a call to schedule your next appointment!

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

1-877-DENTIST

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Keep Teeth Healthy & Happy This Summer!

Summer is a great season full of sunshine and fun outdoor activities with the kiddos. Summer activities can also come with a few more natural risks for kids' teeth than usual. Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist in southern Missouri, and we are here to help you prepare for a fun season that is also safe so you don't end up with a dental emergency this summer. Keep reading to learn more!

Healthy Habits

Summertime is a season of fun and play! Kids are excited to be done with school, and everyone is ready to have summer barbecues and sunny summer days with friends and family. Sometimes this can mean that our regular routine gets disrupted. Dental health shouldn't get neglected. Make sure you and the kids are still brushing your teeth twice a day and regularly flossing to keep your gums, teeth, and mouth happy all summer! 

It's also important to make sure you are still following a balanced diet through the summer. Hot dogs from the grill, s'mores over the fire, ice cream cones... They are all part of a nostalgic, fun summer! Just make sure to limit these items or at least brush your teeth and/or rinse your mouth with water afterward. This can help prevent sugar from sticking to your teeth and feeding bacteria that could cause cavities and sensitivity. 

Summer Activities

Days at the pool, riding bikes, and playing sports are all fun parts of the summer season as well. Each of these activities can bring risk into the picture for your kid's teeth. While at the pool, make sure they understand it is important to not run. You never know when there may be a slippery patch of ground that could cause them to fall and break their teeth on the concrete. When riding a bike, it's important to wear a helmet to help protect your head. Some sports are more aggressive than others and can cause serious impact to your teeth. If you are playing a full contact sport, it's a good idea to wear a mouth guard while you're participating.

Visit Your Local Dentist

It's a good idea to reschedule your check-ups if you missed them this spring to make sure you start the summer with a healthy, happy mouth! Access Dental and Dentures has several convenient locations that would love to help make sure you are healthy this season. Give us a call to schedule your next appointment! 1-877-DENTIST

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

1-877-DENTIST

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