Memphis Dentures

Dr. Jennifer Cochran is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Dentures.


Q. What are dentures? 

A. Dentures are removable prostheses that replace missing teeth.  They are worn by the patient on a daily basis.  Removable partial dentures (partials) are used when there are some natural teeth still present.  Complete dentures (dentures) are used when all teeth in an upper or lower arch are missing.  Patients may have two dentures, one for the upper arch and one for the lower arch.

Q. Why should I use a denture adhesive? 

A. Well-fitting dentures in patients who have not lost bone structure may not require the use of adhesive at all.  In most patients, denture adhesives like Fixodent or Polygrip, give the added security and comfort of helping to hold the dentures in place.  This aids in chewing, speaking, and in concealing the fact that they are wearing dentures at all.  Denture adhesives should be removed daily and replaced each morning, after a thorough cleaning of the dentures.

Q. What types of cosmetic dentures are possible? 

A. Dentures can be characterized to fit the look of each patient.  No two people have teeth exactly alike.  Size, shape and color of the denture teeth can be chosen specifically for the patient, and gaps that were once present in natural teeth can be duplicated in a denture.  Also, the "pink" portion of the denture can be tinted to match the exact color of the patient’s natural pigmentation.  There is a real art to making cosmetic dentures, so be sure to select a dentist who places an emphasis on cosmetics and who is willing to have "try-in" appointments prior to having the dentures made.  That way, the patient has a say in how the dentures will look in the end.  Traditional partial dentures are made with a metal framework, with sometimes unsightly metal clasps.  Ask about metal-free flexible partials that are more comfortable and natural-looking.  Also, properly made dentures will be made at the correct height, and will minimize wrinkles in a patient’s face.  It is always helpful to the dentist to see a picture of the patient with natural teeth, so that the new denture can be made to match.

Q. How long do cosmetic dentures take to make?

A. Dentures can sometimes be made in one or two appointments, but be wary.  Properly made complete dentures require at a minimum separate appointments for impressions, bite registration, try-in, and delivery.  Usually it requires about one month from start to finish.  Partials replacing just a few teeth can be made much quicker.

Q. What are the alternatives to cosmetic dentures? 

A. Economy dentures are an option.  They are more cost-effective and can be made sooner, but they will not fit as well, last as long, or look as natural as cosmetic dentures.  If only a few teeth are missing, dental implants or bridges are a great option.  Dental implants and bridges are fixed in the mouth and are not removed by the patient.

Q. Are dentures uncomfortable or painful to wear? 

A. Wearing dentures is like wearing a new pair of shoes.  Patients will need time to get used to the feel of them.  Chewing and speaking will not feel natural at first.  After a few weeks of regular wear, dentures will feel like a part of their body.  Dentures should not be painful to wear, and if painful, should be adjusted to avoid sore spots.

Q. What’s the difference between conventional dentures and immediate dentures? 

A. Conventional dentures are made after all teeth have been removed and healing has occurred.  Immediate dentures are a great service to patients.  Immediate dentures are made after back teeth are removed, but the front teeth are still in place.  Once the dentures are made, the front teeth can be removed and the immediate dentures are placed immediately afterwards.  This ensures that the patient will not ever go without front teeth, which helps to avoid any embarrassment associated with losing teeth and getting dentures.  Nobody but you and your dentist will know you just got dentures!

Q. How to contact Dr. Cochran if we have further questions?    

A.
Address:
1723 Kirby Parkway
Memphis, TN  38120
Phone: 901.757.9696
Email:jendcochran@hotmail.com
Website: http://www.evergreenfamilydentistry.com/