What Type of Dentist Does Dentures?

Dentures, a common dental solution for replacing missing teeth, are essential for individuals who have lost teeth due to age, disease, or injury. Choosing the right type of dentist to handle your denture needs is crucial for optimal oral health and comfort. This comprehensive guide aims to outline and explain the types of dental professionals involved in the fabrication, fitting, and maintenance of dentures.

Types of Dentists Involved in Denture Care

There are primarily three types of dental professionals involved in the creation and management of dentures: Prosthodontists, General Dentists, and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Each offers distinct expertise that can cater to various aspects of denture care.

1. Prosthodontists

   • Overview: Prosthodontists are dental specialists who focus on designing, creating, and fitting artificial replacements for teeth and other parts of the mouth. This specialty requires additional years of training following dental school.
   • Role in Denture Care: Prosthodontists are ideally suited for patients who need comprehensive care, especially if they require complex dentures or face challenging oral health issues. They are skilled in handling both complete and partial dentures and often provide expertise for intricate cases involving implants or extensive oral rehabilitation.
   • Advantages: Their specialized training in prosthetic dentistry means they have a deeper understanding of the esthetics and function of dentures, which can result in better-fitting and more natural-looking prosthetics.

2. General Dentists

   • Overview: General dentists serve as primary care providers for dental health, offering a wide range of services, including preventative, restorative, and some cosmetic procedures. They complete dental school but do not undergo specific training in prosthetic dentistry.
   • Role in Denture Care: General dentists can create and fit dentures as part of their broad spectrum of services. They are competent in addressing straightforward denture cases and performing initial evaluations to determine denture needs.
   • Advantages: For patients with straightforward denture requirements, visiting a general dentist may be more convenient and less costly. They can manage ongoing dental health, ensuring the gums and any remaining teeth remain healthy alongside the use of dentures.

3. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

   • Overview: These are dental specialists recognized for performing surgeries on the mouth, jaws, and face. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon undergoes extensive training beyond dental school in both medical and surgical aspects.
   • Role in Denture Care: While oral and maxillofacial surgeons do not make dentures, they play a crucial role in preparing the mouth for denture placement. Procedures they perform include tooth extractions, implant placements, and corrective jaw surgeries that may be necessary before fitting dentures.
   • Advantages: They provide critical support and treatment for patients requiring surgical interventions to create a stable and healthy foundation for dentures.

How to Choose the Right Dentist for Dentures

Selecting the appropriate dental professional is a decision that will vary based on individual dental needs, personal preferences, and complexity of the dental condition.

• Consider the Complexity of Your Case: If your dental situation is complex, involving multiple missing teeth or underlying oral health issues, seeking a prosthodontist’s expertise may be beneficial.

• Cost Considerations: While prosthodontists provide highly specialized care, they may also be more expensive due to their expertise. General dentists might offer a more budget-friendly option for basic denture requirements.

• Convenience and Accessibility: General dentists are more ubiquitous, which may provide more convenience in terms of location and appointment availability.

• Future Dental Needs: It’s beneficial to choose a dentist who can offer continued care and periodic adjustments to ensure your dentures fit well and function properly over time.

The Denture Process: What to Expect

Understanding the process involved in acquiring dentures can help patients make informed decisions and prepare adequately.

1. Consultation and Examination

   • During an initial consultation, the dentist will perform a thorough oral examination, discuss dental history, and address specific concerns to determine the best denture type for you.

2. Impressions and Measurements

   • Accurate impressions of your jaw and remaining teeth are taken to ensure that the dentures fit comfortably and function effectively. Measurements of how your jaws relate to one another will also be taken.

3. Denture Fabrication

   • Based on the impressions and measurements, the dental lab will fabricate your dentures. This process can take several weeks and might require a few visits for adjustments and to test the fit and appearance.

4. Fitting and Adjustments

   • Once the dentures are ready, the dentist will fit them in your mouth, ensuring they are comfortable and stable. Any necessary adjustments will be made during and after the fitting process.

5. Follow-up Appointments

   • Regular follow-up visits are necessary to ensure continued comfort and adapt dentures as the mouth changes over time.

Common Questions and Misconceptions About Dentures

To provide clarity, let's address some frequently asked questions and debunk common misconceptions about dentures:

Are dentures only for the elderly?

• While dentures are commonly associated with older adults, they are suitable for anyone who has lost teeth, regardless of age. Modern dentistry offers sophisticated solutions that cater to diverse age groups.

Can I sleep with my dentures?

• It's generally recommended to remove dentures at night to allow your gums to rest and maintain oral hygiene. However, specific instructions may vary based on individual circumstances.

Will dentures affect my speech or appearance?

• Initially, there might be a learning curve in speaking with new dentures. Over time, as you adjust, speech should return to normal. Well-fitting dentures can enhance your appearance by providing proper facial support and an attractive smile.

How long do dentures last?

• With proper care, dentures can last 5-10 years. However, periodic adjustments are needed to ensure the fit remains correct as the shape of your mouth changes.

Additional Resources

For further information or support, consider visiting reputable dental associations such as the American College of Prosthodontists or the American Dental Association. They offer a wealth of resources about prosthetic dentistry and maintaining oral health.

By understanding the roles different dental professionals play and knowing the denture process, patients can better navigate their denture journey. Whether you opt for a prosthodontist’s specialized care or the convenience of a general dentist, choosing the right path will help ensure your comfort and satisfaction with your dentures.