Full/Partial Dentures

Tooth loss is a common issue affecting millions of Americans, leading to difficulties with eating, speaking, and self-confidence. Fortunately, there are reliable solutions to restore function and aesthetics to your smile. Full/partial dentures in San Francisco, CA, offer a practical, affordable, and noninvasive way to replace missing teeth. Whether you need a complete set of dentures to replace all your teeth or a partial solution for a few missing teeth, the expertise of a dentist in San Francisco, CA, can help you regain your oral health and quality of life.

Understanding Full Dentures

Full or complete dentures are used when all the natural teeth in either the upper or lower jaw (or both) are missing. These custom-made prosthetic devices consist of artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored acrylic base that fits snugly over your gums.

Types of Full Dentures

Conventional Full Dentures

These are placed in your mouth after any remaining teeth have been removed and your gums have healed. When you are without teeth, this healing process can take several weeks. Once healing is complete, your San Francisco, CA dentist will fit you with your custom dentures.

Immediate Full Dentures

Unlike conventional dentures, immediate dentures are made in advance and can be placed immediately after the teeth are removed. While this allows you to have teeth during healing, immediate dentures may require adjustments as your gums and bone structure shrink during healing.

Implant-Supported Full Dentures

Implant-supported dentures are an excellent option for those who seek more stability. These dentures are anchored by dental implants placed in the jawbone, providing a more secure fit that prevents slipping or movement while eating and speaking.

Benefits of Full Dentures

Full dentures provide several benefits, including:

• Restored function: With full dentures, you can chew food more effectively and speak more clearly.
• Aesthetics: Dentures help restore the appearance of your smile and support facial muscles, preventing a sunken appearance.
• Cost-effective: Full dentures are often more affordable than tooth replacement options, such as dental implants.
• Noninvasive: The process of getting dentures is typically less invasive compared to implant surgeries.

Understanding Partial Dentures

Partial dentures in San Francisco, CA, are designed for individuals who are missing some teeth but still have several natural teeth remaining. Partial dentures consist of one or more artificial teeth attached to a plastic base, which may be connected by metal frameworks that clasp onto your natural teeth.

Types of Partial Dentures

• Removable partial dentures: These dentures can be taken out and cleaned easily. They are designed to fit around your remaining natural teeth, helping to fill in the gaps left by missing teeth. Your dentist in San Francisco, CA, can help design a partial denture that fits comfortably and blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.
• Fixed partial dentures (Bridges): Unlike removable dentures, fixed partial dentures are anchored to the adjacent teeth or dental implants. These permanent prosthetic devices stay in place, offering a more secure and natural feel.

Benefits of Partial Dentures

• Protects remaining teeth: By filling in the gaps left by missing teeth, partial dentures help prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting, which can lead to misalignment and bite problems.
• Restores function and aesthetics: Partial dentures restore your ability to chew and speak properly while improving your smile's appearance.
• Affordable solution: Partial dentures are more cost-effective than full-mouth dental implants or bridges, making them accessible for many patients.

The Process of Getting Full/Partial Dentures in San Francisco, CA

Getting full/partial dentures in San Francisco, CA, typically involves several stages, from the initial consultation to the final fitting. Here's what you can expect: 

Initial Consultation and Examination

Your first step is to visit a dentist in San Francisco, CA, for a comprehensive mouth examination. The dentist will assess your oral health, take X-rays, and discuss your treatment goals. Based on your needs and the condition of your teeth and gums, the dentist will recommend full or partial dentures.

Tooth Extraction (if necessary)

If you get full dentures, any remaining teeth may need to be extracted. Only the severely damaged or decayed teeth that cannot be saved for partial dentures will be removed. The dentist may suggest immediate dentures to ensure you have temporary teeth during healing.

Taking Impressions

Once your mouth has healed (or for immediate dentures, before the extractions), the dentist will take impressions of your gums and any remaining teeth. These impressions will be used to create custom-fit dentures that match the shape and contour of your mouth.

Fitting and Adjustments

When your dentures are ready, you'll return to the dental office for a fitting. The dentist will ensure that the dentures fit comfortably and securely. Minor adjustments are common after your initial fitting to ensure the best fit. Regular follow-ups will help monitor your progress and make any necessary modifications.

Final Placement

After the final adjustments, your full or partial dentures will be ready for use. The dentist in San Francisco, CA, will guide you on how to care for your new dentures, including cleaning and maintenance routines to keep them in optimal condition.

Caring for Your Full/Partial Dentures

Proper care of your dentures is essential to ensure they last a long time and function well. Here are some important tips for denture care:

• Daily cleaning: Remove your dentures daily for cleaning. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a nonabrasive denture cleaner to clean them thoroughly.
• Soak overnight: Keep your dentures in water or a denture-soaking solution overnight to prevent them from drying out and losing shape.
• Regular dental checkups: Regularly visit your dentist in San Francisco, CA, to ensure your dentures are still fitting properly and monitor your oral health.
• Avoid hard foods: While dentures are designed to withstand regular chewing, it's best to avoid extremely hard or sticky foods that can cause damage.

Why Choose a Dentist in San Francisco, CA for Dentures?

Choosing the right dentist in San Francisco, CA, is crucial to ensuring the success of your full or partial dentures. A skilled dentist will take the time to understand your needs and craft dentures that fit comfortably, function well, and look natural. Whether you need a complete set of dentures or a partial replacement, the right dentist will provide comprehensive care, from initial consultation to ongoing maintenance. So, if you have a lost or misplaced tooth, contact us at Van Ness Family Dentistry for the best dentures. Enjoy a perfect smile and better oral health.

Are You a Candidate for Full/Partial Dentures?

If you've experienced significant tooth loss or have several damaged teeth, you may be a good candidate for full/partial dentures in San Francisco, CA. However, consulting with a dentist is important to determine the best treatment plan for your unique situation. In some cases, alternatives like dental implants or bridges may be considered.

Conclusion

Tooth loss doesn't have to diminish your quality of life. Full/partial Dentures in San Francisco, CA, offer an effective solution to restore your smile, improve oral function, and boost self-confidence. With the help of a knowledgeable dentist in San Francisco, CA, you can enjoy a custom-designed set of dentures that feel comfortable and look natural, allowing you to regain your confidence and live life to the fullest.

So schedule an appointment with us at Van Ness Family Dentistry, 1336 Van Ness Avenue, #1, Lower Nob Hill, San Francisco, CA 94109. For bookings and consultations, call (415) 487-1500. Please visit our official website to learn more about our various services.