Dentures and partial dentures, traditionally associated with seniors, are also commonly used by younger adults. Despite a decrease in adult tooth loss since the 1960s, many Americans still rely on dentures to improve their smiles, speech, and ability to comfortably chew food. At Keys Dental Specialists, serving Key West and the surrounding areas, we offer both types of dentures to meet our patients' needs.
A denture is a removable dental appliance that replaces missing teeth and surrounding tissue, closely resembling natural teeth to enhance your smile. There are two main types of dentures: complete and partial. Complete dentures replace all teeth, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain, preventing other teeth from shifting and filling in gaps.
Complete dentures can be "conventional," made after teeth removal and gum tissue healing (usually after about 5 weeks), or "immediate," made in advance and placed immediately after teeth removal to avoid a toothless period during healing. Immediate dentures require adjustments as tissues shrink and heal.
Dentures are durable and can last many years with proper care, though they may require occasional adjustments due to normal wear. At Keys Dental Specialists, we are committed to providing high-quality dentures that restore both function and aesthetics, ensuring our patients enjoy comfortable and confident smiles.
Understanding how dentures work can be helpful as you decide on the treatment needed for your dental needs.
The procedure begins with an initial consultation where the dentist conducts a thorough examination of the patient's teeth to assess the need for an inlay or onlay. During this visit, the dentist will discuss the procedure, its benefits, and any alternative treatments available. This is also an opportunity for the patient to ask questions and express any concerns.
In the preparation appointment, local anesthesia is administered to numb the affected area. The dentist then carefully removes the damaged or decayed part of the tooth, preparing it for the inlay or onlay. An impression of the prepared tooth is taken to create a custom inlay or onlay, which is sent to a dental lab for fabrication. In the meantime, a temporary restoration may be placed to protect the tooth until the permanent restoration is ready.
The dental lab uses the impression taken during the preparation appointment to create a custom inlay or onlay. This can be made from materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold, depending on the patient's preference and the dentist's recommendation. The fabrication process typically takes one to two weeks.
Once the permanent inlay or onlay is ready, the patient returns for the placement appointment. The dentist begins by removing the temporary restoration. The fit of the permanent inlay or onlay is then checked to ensure it matches the tooth and bite perfectly. Using a strong dental adhesive, the inlay or onlay is bonded to the tooth. The dentist then polishes the restoration to ensure it looks smooth and natural.
After the inlay or onlay is bonded, the dentist will check the patient's bite and make any necessary adjustments to ensure comfort and proper functionality. Final polishing and any minor corrections are made at this stage to perfect the restoration.
When considering dentures, patients can choose between full and partial dentures. In fact, over the past few years, dentists created hybrids with other dental treatments to provide patients with even more options. Here is a shortlist of denture options one can consider:
Most commonly used by seniors, these dentures replace a complete set of teeth. They sit directly on top of the gums. Some patients are good candidates for immediate placement. In this instance, the dentist places the previously made dentures immediately after the extraction of the teeth. For everyone else, the dentist may recommend waiting eight to 12 weeks after teeth removal.
If the patient still has a number of healthy teeth left, the dentist may recommend partial dentures. This usually requires the use of a metal piece to which a pink-colored base is attached. The metal helps to anchor the false teeth to the natural teeth to prevent movement.
When patients prefer to retain the ability to remove dentures, but like the stability of implants, they may opt for overdentures. These are handy in instances where a person has no teeth, as the dental implants provide an anchor that the teeth can sit on. For even more excellent stability, patients may opt for snap-in dentures. In this case, the implants have locator receptors, and the dentures have attachments. These work together to snap the dentures into place for a snug fit.
Our implant-supported dentures provide patients with a stable foundation for a beautiful and functional smile. Unlike traditional dentures, they do not require adhesives to stay in place. The dentures can be easily removed for proper hygiene and cleaning, and they can help prevent bone recession.
Traditional removable dentures are custom-made dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are not permanently fixed in the mouth, allowing the wearer to remove and reinsert them as needed. Dentures can be full (replacing all teeth in the upper or lower jaw) or partial (replacing some missing teeth while remaining natural teeth).
It can take a few weeks to a few months for patients to get used to wearing dentures. Initially, dentures may feel awkward or loose, and minor irritation or soreness is common as the mouth adjusts. Over time, the muscles in the cheeks and tongue learn to keep the dentures in place, improving comfort and function.
Proper care is essential to maintain the appearance and longevity of dentures. Remove and rinse dentures after eating to remove food particles and debris. Brush dentures daily using a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive denture cleaner. Soak them overnight in a denture cleaning solution to keep them moist and retain their shape. Additionally, brush your gums, tongue, and palate with a soft toothbrush each morning to stimulate circulation and remove plaque.
Even with dentures, regular dental check-ups are important. Visit your dentist at least once a year for a thorough examination. The dentist will check the fit of your dentures, look for any signs of oral health issues, and make adjustments as necessary to ensure optimal comfort and function.
While there may be an adjustment period, most people can eat a wide variety of foods with dentures. It’s recommended to start with soft foods cut into small pieces and gradually reintroduce firmer foods. Chewing slowly and using both sides of the mouth to distribute pressure evenly can help improve eating with dentures.
With proper care, dentures can last several years, typically ranging from 5 to 10 years. However, over time, the shape of your gums and jawbone may change, necessitating adjustments or replacement of the dentures to maintain a good fit and function.
Yes, alternatives to traditional removable dentures include dental implants and implant-supported dentures. Dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for replacement teeth. Implant-supported dentures offer a secure fit and improved function compared to traditional dentures. Consult your dentist to determine the best option for your needs.
Rediscover the joy of a confident smile. Our state-of-the-art advanced treatment solutions ensure that you're not just undergoing a procedure, but investing in a lifetime of laughter, conversations, and shared moments. Whether you require a simple cleaning or seek a complete smile transformation, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Keys Dental Specialists specializes in comprehensive dentistry, from preventative exams and cleanings to complex dental implants, sedation, and oral surgery. With 50+ years of combined expertise, we serve Key West and all of Monroe County.
We offer our patients a detailed treatment approach and help them with cost-effective payment solutions
A single implant(s) can support a crown to replace just one missing tooth, which is significantly more durable and natural than traditional bridges.
Starting at
$95 Per Month.
Occasionally, a patient is missing more than one tooth but still has healthy gums and surrounding teeth. In this case, two or more implants are placed, and the crowns are attached, leaving the teeth intact.
Starting at
$195 Per Month.
Patients who need to replace a full upper and/or lower set of teeth can now opt for full mouth implants. Our oral surgeon will place 4 implants and then attach a full arch of teeth.
Starting at
$300 Per Month.
"My husband was need of an emergency wisdom tooth extraction because the tooth had cracked and the pain was off the scale. Because oral surgeons only come to the island every so often he was going to have to wait over a week for relief. We reached out to Keys Dental Specialists and they were able to accommodate him the next day. They moved mountains to make time for him to relieve his pain. Their office is clean, organized, modern and the entire staff was compassionate and knowledgeable. "
"A terrific Dental experience!!! Prior to my appointment I received a text letting me know what my responsibility would be after insurance which was a very reasonable amount. When you walk into the office you pleasantly greeted by Brittani and Maddie by name. Nellie my hygienist is very friendly and does a great job. Dr Guthrie does a thorough examination and explains everything that may have to be done now or watched out for the future. Overall A++++"
"Hands down the best experience! I was given a same-day appt for my emergency pain. Forms and insurance were all done electronically prior to my visit. The entire office was professional, well organized, efficient and very friendly. They were thorough and well equipped with the latest technology. I was able to leave with all the information I needed, a well explained plan and appointments for treatment. 5+ stars for this dental office and team, thanks again for your help."
"Today was my first visit ever a bit of an emergency. I have never met a nicer staff as well as superb efficiency. I felt more than comfortable and I will highly recommend them to everyone. Amazing experience with the staff as well as the Dr. Five star experience for sure from minute to end. Thank you I'm glad I discovered your practice."
"Great place! Staff is super friendly. My husband needed some work done while on our trip and they took him in with no issues. Their waiting room is just perfect. Tiki Hut! Chairs are comfortable, the windows are just amazing. And of course a tv and magazines for anyone wanting or needing them."
"It's always such a pleasure to walk into Keys Dental Specialists and to be known, automatically checked in, put at ease and kept informed the entire way. The care is exceptional and they always make it comfortable, even for someone who has been an anxious dental patient for a long time!"
"Everyone has a great personality, friendly and sense of humor. They made me feel very comfortable. Dr Guthrie explained/showed me everything and answered all my questions. I left very very confident knowing I made the right decision for a dentist."
"I can tell you everybody was extremely Pleasant and accommodating. Any questions I had were explained thoroughly and I felt genuinely concerned about. There was no rush and even though I don't like going to the dentist they all made me feel very comfortable. Thank you Keys Dental Specialists!"
"Not only did they manage to squeeze me in the same day I called to see if they took my insurance, but they made what could have have been a miserable experience into an enjoyable one. I also appreciated how much time they took to explain what was happening inside my mouth. I look forward to getting my teeth cleaned next week!"
"Absolutely love this place. From the time you call and the staff answers the phone, to you coming in to get your teeth cleaned is all WONDERFUL! I have been here a handful of times and by far they are the best dental clinic I have ever been to. Thank you for what you DO!"
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Keys Dental Specialists is a multispecialty dental center offering comprehensive dental services including dental implants and oral surgery treatments. Our team has over 50 years of experience providing solutions for complex restorations and implant dentistry, ensuring that every step of the process is handled with perfection and care. Proudly serving all of the Florida Keys and Key West.
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