Patients may consider partial or full removable dentures to replace any missing teeth and help them eat, speak, and look better. Full or complete dentures replace all of the teeth and connective gum tissue on the upper and/or lower jaw. Partial dentures, also called a removable bridge, can be used to replace gaps in the natural teeth. Removable dentures at Dallas Laser Dentistry are made with advanced techniques by Dr. Mary Swift and Dr. Terrel Myers for a comfortable fit and to match the shade and color of the natural teeth in partial dentures. At Dallas Laser Dentistry, all restorative dentistry, like removal dentures, are made to suit the patient’s face and look natural, but dazzling.
Olalekan Okunuga, DDS, FICOI, FAAIP, is a general dentist and the practice owner of this South Hill location. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at University of Pacific in San Francisco and completed his post-graduate residency at Howard University Hospital in Washington, D.C. Based on many years of valuable dental experience, Dr. Okunuga and his staff are proud to offer professional, compassionate care to patients that visit this practice.
At first, wearing dentures may require some getting used to in terms of talking and eating, as the dentures become “balanced” in the space formerly occupied by the teeth. But over time, the muscles, nerves and ligaments of the mouth learn to work in new ways, which allows these functions to occur normally. Dentures also help support the facial skeleton and the soft tissues of the lips and cheeks, which can help create a more youthful appearance.
What does this mean for me? Dental patients looking for a full-mouth restoration are wise to shop around and, ask the important questions of each prospective dental clinic: questions such as costs for extractions, costs for full-mouth restoration, what materials are used, and what can I expect during my “free” consultation. Without these answers, it’s impossible to make an informed decision about your dental future. Renew also suggests you get a second opinion. Just like you’d want a second opinion if you were going to make a large medical decision, it is important to go to multiple appointments and see where you feel comfortable. We are more than happy to be a resource in your journey so please feel free to email us or call us and we can walk you through our option and other options out there. Knowledge is power!
Extractions -- If this is your first set of dentures, you may need to see an oral surgeon to have your teeth extracted before your denture dentist can fit you for dentures. If you choose to see a prosthodontist - a dental specialist who has undergone three years of additional training in replacing missing teeth and restoring damaged teeth – you will likely pay more money to get your dentures than you would working with a general or cosmetic dentist.
Teeth can fall out for a number of reasons, ranging from genetics to drug abuse. Most commonly, teeth are removed or fall out on their own due to severe tooth decay. Neglect to upkeep oral hygiene or not seeking proper treatment for damaged teeth, can lead to the onset of decay which in turn leads to loss of teeth. Visiting you dentist in 6 month intervals is a good preventive measure to spot any early signs of decay.
