When you think of dentures, you likely picture a set of teeth sitting in a cup of water on the bathroom counter. This is an example of removable dentures. At Mile High Smiles, we are pleased to offer an alternative to removable dentures.
Dr. Brian Levitin specializes in fixed dentures which are secured by dental implants and almost always preferred over removable dentures. Fixed dentures appear natural and last far longer than removable dentures and other options.
Fixed dentures are customized to fit your particular gums and teeth. Once they are secured in place with dental implants, they look and feel like natural teeth. If you opt for fixed dentures, you will not have to ever remove them to clean them. They will remain in your mouth at all times and give you a natural look and feel.
Since fixed dentures are made with a cutting-edge technology, they last for far longer than removable dentures. In most cases, patients never have to repair or replace their fixed dentures. Although these dentures are more costly than removable ones, they can offer you incredible savings and convenience in the long run.
The greatest benefit of fixed dentures is that you don’t have to worry about them slipping out of your mouth. They lock into place when we apply our Lakewood, Colorado dental implants and will remain in your mouth for years to come. Before deciding on dentures, dental implants or any major oral surgery, it may be wise to consider financing options. While a dental membership plan or in house discount plan might not cover dentures or dental implants, there are financing options. Our Pensacola Orthodontist peer Dr. Clay Sims has created a number of financing options for his patients.
Learn More About Fixed Dentures at Mile High Smiles
If you have questions about fixed dentures or Lakewood, Colorado dental implants, we encourage you to contact our office today. Call us at 303-232-1830 for more information.
How to Care for Fixed Dentures
There are a number of ways you can keep your fixed dentures in optimal shape for years to come. We recommend the following tips.
Use an Interdental Brush
An interdental brush is a must for fixed dentures. We suggest you use it to brush your dentures gently in a back and forth motion. Make sure your brush isn’t too small or too big as it may not clean your dentures as effectively and cause some discomfort. Note that an interdental brush is meant to be used on its own, never with toothpaste.
Floss
Just like with traditional teeth, flossing is important with fixed dentures. You may find it easier to use a floss threader than traditional dental floss. Pass the floss back and forth between the teeth and use a sideways stroke along the gum line. Ideally, you’d floss every day.
Schedule Dental Visits
Visit your dentist for routine exams and checkups. This way you can learn about any issues early on and receive personalized advice for caring for your fixed dentures. It’s in your best interest to schedule these checkups several times per year.
Treat Your Dentures Like Traditional Teeth
A good rule of thumb is to treat your dentures like traditional teeth. Brush and floss them daily and avoid chewing on ice or placing sharp objects into your mouth. The better you care for your dentures, the longer they’ll last.
How to Care for Dental Implants
To keep your dental implants in tip-top condition, follow these tips.
Use a Soft Brush
Toothbrushes with hard bristles are likely to scratch the surface of your implants. Therefore, it’s a good idea to use a soft bristled toothbrush. Brush your teeth twice a day, just like you normally would. If you’d like, you can always use a Proxabrush to clean the areas that are hard to reach around your implants. Mooresville, NC dental implant experts at Davidson & Burr always suggest using a Proxabrush
Stay Away From Abrasive Products
Harsh products can damage your dental implants. Choose gentle or sensitive toothpastes and mouthwashes instead. Stay away from any oral hygiene products with flavors like cinnamon or mint as they can cause discomfort in your mouth.
Don’t Forget to Floss
Most people brush every day but flossing often becomes an afterthought. If you have dental implants or dental crowns, flossing on a regular basis is particularly important. Flossing can prevent plaque from accumulating around your implants and creating serious issues. You can always set floss reminders on your phone or keep floss in your purse or car so that you always have it on hand.
Refrain From Hard and Sticky Foods
Even though they may be delicious, hard and sticky food can wreak havoc on your implants and the teeth that surround them. After you receive your implants, do your best to avoid foods like ice, hard candies, caramel, apples, carrots, steak, and crusty bread.
Stay Away From Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking and alcohol are harmful, regardless of if you have implants or not. Since your dental implants take six months to heal, smoking and drinking alcohol during this time can be very detrimental and slow the process of healing.
