Dentistry is the known evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the soft and hard tissues of the jaw (mandible), the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and the adjacent.
An Interview with Dr. Jerry Gardner on Dentures
Dr. Jerry Gardner is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Dentures.
Q. What are dentures?
A. Dentures are removable prosthesis which provide teeth and chewing surfaces for patients who have no teeth. Only gums are present and these appliances fit over the gums.
Q. Why should I use a denture adhesive?
A. Dental adhesive is used if the denture is loose and will help secure a tight fit over the gums. The other option is to reline the inside of the denture so it fits more securely on the gum.
Q. What types of cosmetic dentures are possible?
A. There are many cosmetic dentures on the market. One that comes to mind is Valplast for patients who have some teeth. Having said this, the correct term is a dental partial instead of a denture. Cosmetic dentures have more vitality depending on the type of base you use for the "gum" color and the type of teeth used. For example, porcelain teeth vs resin teeth.
Q. How long do cosmetic dentures take to make?
A. The time to fabricate cosmetic dentures depends on chair time for adequate models and arch relationships, time to send to lab, lab time, and then return to the office. Also, factor in "try-in" for patient consent. So, 3 weeks or so.
Q. What are the alternatives to cosmetic dentures?
A. Alternative to dentures are implants, then the patient has the chance to have dentures that "snap" into place or permanent placement of teeth using implants and seating bridges.
Q. Are dentures uncomfortable or painful to wear?
A. If you never wore dentures, there is a time factor to get used to the appliances. If they are made correctly, patients can adapt quite well.
Q. What’s the difference between conventional dentures and immediate dentures?
A. Conventional dentures are made after the gums are completely healed from any extraction, while immediate dentures are made before the teeth needing to be extracted are removed. Once we have fabricated the immediate dentures we extract the teeth and the patient has "immediate" teeth. The downside is after the gums heal, the gums will "shrink" and these immediate dentures will need to be relined for a more secure fit.
Q. How to contact Dr. Gardner if we have further questions?
