Missing all your teeth in the upper or lower jaw can make it difficult to eat, speak, and smile confidently. At Lakeshore Dental in Fort Collins, CO, we offer high-quality complete dentures that are custom-designed to fit your unique needs. Whether you're replacing teeth for the first time or looking for an upgrade to your current dentures, our team is here to help you regain the functionality, comfort, and appearance of your smile.
What Are Complete Dentures?
Complete dentures, also known as full dentures, are removable dental prosthetics that replace all missing teeth in the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. They are custom-crafted to fit securely over your gums and restore the look and function of your natural teeth.
Our complete dentures are made from durable, natural-looking materials that not only restore your ability to eat and speak comfortably but also enhance your facial structure and boost your confidence.
Benefits of Complete Dentures
Choosing complete dentures can greatly improve your quality of life by providing:
- Improved Chewing and Speaking: Replace missing teeth to eat your favorite foods and speak clearly again.
- A Natural Appearance: Modern dentures are designed to mimic the look of natural teeth for a confident smile.
- Facial Support: Dentures help restore your facial contours, preventing the sunken look that often accompanies tooth loss.
- Custom Fit: Each set of dentures is made specifically for your mouth to ensure comfort and stability.
- Affordable Solution: Complete dentures offer an effective and cost-efficient way to replace a full arch of missing teeth.
The Complete Dentures Process at Lakeshore Dental
At Lakeshore Dental, we use a step-by-step process to ensure your dentures are comfortable, functional, and natural-looking:
1. Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation and exam. Dr. Alexa Crete will assess your oral health, discuss your goals, and determine whether complete dentures are the best solution for you.
2. Custom Impressions
To create a perfect fit, we take detailed impressions of your gums and jaw. These impressions are used to design dentures that fit securely and comfortably in your mouth.
3. Denture Fabrication
Your custom dentures will be crafted from high-quality materials that replicate the appearance of natural teeth. Our goal is to create dentures that look as close to real teeth as possible.
4. Fitting and Adjustments
Once your dentures are ready, you’ll try them on in our office. We’ll make any necessary adjustments to ensure a precise and comfortable fit.
5. Follow-Up Care
We’ll schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress and ensure you’re completely satisfied with your new dentures.
Caring for Your Complete Dentures
Proper care is essential to maintain the longevity and performance of your dentures. Here are some tips for keeping them in great shape:
- Daily Cleaning: Brush your dentures daily using a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner.
- Soak Overnight: Store your dentures in water or a denture solution overnight to keep them from drying out.
- Rinse After Meals: Remove and rinse your dentures after eating to eliminate food particles and debris.
- Handle with Care: Avoid dropping your dentures by handling them over a soft surface or towel.
- Visit Us Regularly: Schedule routine checkups to ensure your dentures continue to fit well and function properly.
Are Complete Dentures Right for You?
Complete dentures may be the right choice if:
- You’ve lost all your natural teeth in the upper or lower jaw.
- You’re experiencing difficulty chewing or speaking due to tooth loss.
- You want an affordable, non-invasive solution to restore your smile.
- You’re ready to regain confidence in your appearance.
If you’re not sure whether complete dentures are right for you, our team will work with you to explore your options and develop a treatment plan that aligns with your needs and goals.
Complete Dentures vs. Other Tooth Replacement Options
Complete dentures are a popular solution for replacing missing teeth, but they aren’t the only option. Here’s how they compare to other tooth replacement treatments:
- Complete Dentures: These removable prosthetics replace all teeth in either the upper or lower jaw (or both). They are affordable, non-invasive, and restore both function and appearance. However, they do require regular cleaning and maintenance and may need periodic adjustments to ensure a proper fit as your gums and jaw change over time.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: For patients seeking enhanced stability, implant-supported dentures combine the benefits of dentures and dental implants. The dentures are secured to implants placed in your jawbone, which prevents slipping or shifting during eating or speaking. This option also helps preserve your jawbone, preventing bone loss over time. However, it involves oral surgery and has a higher upfront cost compared to traditional dentures.
- Dental Implants: Dental implants are a permanent solution that replaces individual missing teeth. They offer the most natural look and function, as they are secured directly into the jawbone. While implants provide long-lasting results, they require a larger investment and may involve multiple procedures to complete the process.
Each option has its own benefits and considerations. During your consultation at Lakeshore Dental, Dr. Alexa Crete will help you determine the best tooth replacement solution based on your specific needs, goals, and budget.
Why Choose Lakeshore Dental for Complete Dentures?
At Lakeshore Dental, we understand the challenges that come with tooth loss and are dedicated to helping you regain your smile. When you choose us, you can expect:
- Expert Care: Dr. Alexa Crete and our team bring years of experience to every treatment.
- Custom Solutions: Your dentures are made specifically for your comfort, function, and appearance.
- Supportive Environment: We’ll guide you through every step of the process to ensure a stress-free experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Complete Dentures
How long do complete dentures last?
With proper care, complete dentures can last 5 to 10 years. Over time, you may need adjustments or replacements due to natural changes in your gums and jawbone.
Will complete dentures feel comfortable?
It may take a few weeks to adjust to your new dentures, but they are custom-designed to fit comfortably in your mouth. If you experience discomfort, we can make adjustments to improve the fit.
Can I eat normally with complete dentures?
Yes, complete dentures restore your ability to chew, although certain sticky or hard foods may require caution. Practice eating softer foods first, then gradually introduce more challenging textures.
How much do complete dentures cost?
The cost of complete dentures varies based on materials and customization. At Lakeshore Dental, we’ll discuss your options and provide an estimate during your consultation.
Schedule Your Consultation for Complete Dentures in Fort Collins
If you’re ready to restore your smile and confidence with complete dentures, Lakeshore Dental is here to help. We’re committed to providing high-quality, natural-looking dentures that improve your quality of life.
Call us at (970) 221-1926 or contact us online to schedule your consultation today. Let us help you smile confidently again!