Is there something missing from your smile? If you are walking around with an incomplete smile, you could be putting your overall dental health in jeopardy.

Many people don’t realize that there’s more to missing teeth than meets the eye. In addition to the fact that many people with missing teeth are self-conscious about their smile, leaving open spaces in the mouth can actually lead to more serious problems. Each tooth has a purpose – in addition to its role in allowing you to speak and chew with precision, each tooth provides support for neighboring teeth, gums and bone. When a tooth is lost due to decay or damage, failing to replace it can actually put other teeth, gums and the jawbone at risk.

Many Smile Benefits

Dentures are a great way to solve the problem of multiple missing teeth. Although the dentures had a bad rap because they looked like dentures, the dentures of today are more lifelike than their predecessors. Look for a skilled cosmetic dentist who can apply neuromuscular dentistry techniques to design your dentures. It is possible to get custom-made dentures that are not only functional, but look very realistic, too. The goal is to help you eat, speak and smile in comfort. Today’s dentures are also built for strength and longevity.

Here are just a few of the benefits of replacing missing teeth with dentures:

·Reliability— Today’s dentures are strong, durable and last for many years.

·Appearance— A complete smile can do wonders for your appearance.

·Increased self-confidence— Many denture wearers say their new dentures allow them to smile with confidence, instead of being embarrassed by missing teeth.

·Functionality— Dentures enable normal chewing, eating and speaking.

What to Expect

If you are considering the benefits of a conventional denture, be aware that it may take four or more appointments to complete. The process starts with a mouth impression and bite evaluation. Together, you and your dentist will choose the replacement teeth, based on factors like desired tooth size and shape, coloring, and desired end result. You’ll have the opportunity to test out the dentures during the “try-in” fitting. At this point, your denture will receive any adjustments that need to be made.

When you come in to pick up your final dentures, you’ll receive detailed instructions on care, placement and trouble-shooting. Your doctor is dependent upon your feedback to ensure the most comfortable fit possible. Note that if you are getting full dentures and teeth need to be extracted, your gums will need at least one month to heal before the denture process begins. You may, however, have the option of wearing and immediate, or temporary, denture while your custom dentures are being designed.

Dentures are available to replace some missing teeth or all missing teeth in a partial or full denture. If you’ve only got one or two missing teeth, dental implants are a great alternative to dentures.