Dentures restore normalcy to San Francisco lives
Losing your teeth can sap enjoyment from life. Without teeth, facial muscles sag and bone deteriorates, making you look older. Your diet suffers, and it becomes difficult to communicate clearly. The dentists at West Portal Family Dentistry take pride in creating dentures that fit securely and look natural; helping San Francisco patients enjoy renewed quality of life.
Full dentures
A full denture replaces an entire arch of teeth, either upper or lower (or both). Our dentures are custom crafted for comfortable fit and attractive appearance. We also handle extractions to prepare for dentures. Expect to be on a soft food diet for several months to allow tissues to heal completely before your new dentures are inserted.
Partial dentures
A partial denture is a good option if you are missing numerous teeth, but the remainder of your smile is healthy. The partial denture fits around and gains support from natural teeth.
Specialized dentures
Today’s denture wearer has more options than ever, including implant-supported dentures. Dr. Nguyen is a member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and is experienced in all phases of implant planning and placement. Just a few carefully placed dental implants dramatically increase the stability and comfort of a full denture. Dr. Nguyen can design a brand new, lightweight denture for this purpose, or retrofit your existing denture with attachment points.
Immediate dentures are a great solution for the patient who doesn’t want to be without teeth for even a day. These dentures are made in advance. They are inserted immediately after extractions, and help to protect the mouth as it heals. Dental implants may also be placed at the time of extractions.
Dentures FAQs
What are dentures?
Dentures are personalized dental appliances made to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. They are made for replacing all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw (full dentures) or just a couple of missing teeth (partial dentures). Modern dentures are specifically designed to look and function as naturally as possible, giving you confidence in your appearance and comfort while eating or speaking.
How long does it take to get used to dentures?
Adjusting to dentures is different for everyone, but most of our patients start feeling comfortable within a few weeks. Initially, you might experience mild soreness or notice changes in speech, but with continued practice and patience, your mouth adapts. Remember to follow your dentist’s instructions during this period, as it can speed up the adjustment process.
How should I care for my dentures?
Caring for dentures is actually very simple. Make it a habit to rinse them after eating to remove food particles. Brush your dentures each day with a non-abrasive denture cleaner and soft-bristle brush to keep them clean and free of stains. When not in use, store them in a denture-soaking solution to maintain their necessary shape and prevent drying out. Most importantly, keep regular dental check-ups with our team to ensure your dentures stay in good condition.
Can I eat normally with dentures?
Yes. But it might take a little practice at first. Start with softer food and small bites, gradually incorporating harder and chewier food as you adapt. Avoid any sticky or very hard food that could damage your new dentures or cause any shifting or discomfort. Over time, you will become more confident and comfortable eating a variety of foods.
How long do dentures last?
With proper care, dentures typically last 5 – 10 years. However, your mouth changes over time due to natural bone and gum shifts, so dentures often need adjustments or replacements as these changes occur. Regular dental check-ups ensure your dentures continue to fit properly and perform well.
Do dentures feel natural?
Dentures are designed to mimic both the appearance and functionality of natural teeth, but they sometimes do not feel entirely natural at first. Over time, though, most denture wearers do not even notice they are there. Advanced materials and techniques have made dentures more comfortable and realistic than ever, so they are an excellent option for restoring your smile and chewing ability.
Where can I learn more about dentures?
With the right care and mindset, dentures are often a wonderful tool to enhance your quality of life and help you restore your smile and self-confidence. Call (415) 604-9292 to request an appointment at our clinic.
