Missing teeth can dramatically impact your quality of life, affecting everything from your ability to enjoy meals out with friends to how confidently you speak and smile in public. Dentures offer a practical, effective solution for tooth loss, providing functional and aesthetic benefits that can transform your life.
At Dental Group of Chicago, we’re committed to helping patients find the right tooth replacement options for their unique needs. Our team provides comprehensive denture services in a convenient, patient-focused environment with extended hours designed to accommodate even the busiest schedules. From initial consultation through fitting and follow-up care, we guide you through every step of the general dentistry process.
What Are Dentures and Who Needs Them?
Dentures are removable oral appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. With nearly 20% of adults wearing some form of dentures, they are considered a highly effective solution for replacing missing teeth. They’re custom-made to fit your mouth and designed to look like natural teeth, restoring both function and appearance. Dentures may be an ideal solution for you if you experience any of the following:
- You’ve lost multiple teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury
- Your remaining teeth are compromised and may need extraction
- You have difficulty chewing or speaking clearly
- You’re noticing changes in facial structure due to tooth loss
- You want to boost your smile and overall appearance
At Dental Group of Chicago, our team discusses your needs and preferences and evaluate your oral health to recommend the most appropriate denture solution to restore your oral function and confidence.
Types of Dentures Available in South Loop, Chicago
There are several types of dentures to consider, from complete dentures to partial dentures and implant-supported dentures. Each solution has its own distinct advantages and drawbacks.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures replace all teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. They sit directly on the gums and are secured in place primarily through suction and the proper fit of the base against your oral tissues.
These dentures are typically suggested after all remaining teeth have been extracted and the gum tissue has healed, which may take several months. You may wear immediate or temporary dentures during this healing period to ensure you’re never without teeth.
Partial Dentures
If you still have some healthy natural teeth, partial dentures may be the ideal solution. These appliances fill in the spaces created by missing teeth while stopping your remaining teeth from shifting position.
Partial dentures consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base, sometimes connected by a metal framework that clasps the denture in place. They’re removable but provide stability by attaching to your natural teeth.
Implant-Supported Dentures
For enhanced stability and comfort, implant-supported dentures combine traditional dentures with dental implants. Several implants are deliberately placed in the jawbone, and the denture attaches to these implants. This solution offers significant benefits, including:
- Greater stability while eating and speaking
- Prevention of bone loss in the jaw
- No need for adhesives
- Improved comfort and confidence
- Potential for a smaller denture base that doesn’t cover the palate
These advantages make implant-supported dentures an increasingly popular option for patients seeking long-term tooth replacement solutions.
Immediate Dentures
As the name implies, immediate dentures are placed right after tooth extraction to ensure you have teeth during your healing process. While convenient, it’s important to note they do require more adjustments as your gums and jawbone change shape during healing.
The Denture Process: What to Expect
The denture process typically involves several steps spread over multiple appointments. Understanding this process can help you set realistic expectations of your timeline and results.
Initial Consultation and Planning
The initial stage begins with a comprehensive examination of your oral health. We’ll discuss your needs, preferences, and budget at this appointment to determine the most appropriate denture solution. This may include:
- Taking detailed impressions and measurements
- Creating models to evaluate fit and appearance
- Discussing color, shape, and arrangement of artificial teeth
- Developing a treatment timeline
These preliminary steps are essential for creating dentures that look natural and function properly for your specific situation.
Preparing Your Mouth
If you require extractions or other procedures to prepare for your dentures, these will be scheduled before denture fabrication. For immediate dentures, we’ll take measurements and impressions before removing teeth.
Denture Creation and Fitting
Once your mouth is ready, we’ll take final impressions to create your custom dentures. After fabrication, you’ll return for a fitting, during which we’ll make any necessary adjustments for comfort and function.
Adjustment Period and Follow-Up Care
Adapting to your new dentures may take time. Your mouth needs to adjust to having the appliance in place, and you’ll need to learn new techniques for eating and speaking. Most patients require several weeks to feel completely comfortable. During this period, you may experience the following:
- Increased saliva flow
- Slight irritation or soreness
- Minor speech changes
- Adjustments to eating techniques
It is vital you attend your regular follow-up appointments as they allow us to make refinements and ensure your continued comfort.
Living With Dentures: Care and Maintenance
Proper denture care can extend their lifespan and support oral optimal health. Some guidelines we recommend for caring for your dentures include:
Daily Cleaning
Daily cleaning is an essential step in caring for your dentures. Every day, you should:
- Remove and rinse your dentures after eating
- Clean your mouth, including gums, tongue, and palate, with a soft-bristled brush
- Brush your dentures with a nonabrasive denture cleanser
- Soak your dentures overnight in denture solution or water
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly before reinserting
Following these cleaning practices helps prevent stains, bad breath, and gum irritation while extending the life of your dentures.
Regular Dental Check-ups
Even with complete dentures in South Loop, Chicago, regular dental visits remain crucial. At these appointments, we’ll perform the following:
- Examine your oral tissues for signs of disease
- Check denture fit and function
- Perform professional cleaning
- Make adjustments or recommend replacement when necessary
These routine examinations help catch potential problems early and ensure your dentures continue to fit properly as your mouth naturally changes over time.
When to Seek Adjustments
Please contact us at Dental Group of Chicago if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent discomfort or irritation
- Clicking sounds when eating or speaking
- Loosening of the denture
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Changes in facial appearance or bite
Minor adjustments often resolve these issues quickly and prevent more significant problems.
Restore Your Smile With Dental Group of Chicago in South Loop
Living with missing teeth can affect every aspect of your life, from nutrition to self-confidence. Modern dentures offer a reliable, effective solution that can restore both function and appearance, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with rejuvenated confidence.
At Dental Group of Chicago, we’re dedicated to providing accessible dental care with extended hours, including evening appointments until 8 p.m. and Saturday availability. Our experienced team combines expert skills with a compassionate approach, ensuring your denture experience is as comfortable and successful as possible. To learn more about our denture options or to schedule a consultation, call us at (312) 588-0043 or fill out our contact form.
