Full Arch Dentures
A natural, healthy smile is always an asset. With images of brilliant, evenly-spaced, sparkling teeth everywhere we turn, the prospect losing teeth is upsetting and concerning – at Hillock Family Dental, we understand, and are here to help. Functional teeth are more than just a way to look better. They play a direct role in your quality of life.
If you have lost all of your upper or lower teeth, or you have been informed that your teeth are so damaged that they must be extracted, full arch dentures can be an effective and affordable solution. Dr. Donald Hillock, our family dentist with advanced training in cosmetic dentistry, can help you restore your teeth (and appearance) with natural-looking dentures that restore your confidence and allow you to enjoy the foods you love. For dentures in Modesto, Dr. Hillock is the guy to see.
An Old Idea, Now Better Than Ever
The oldest dentures to be found to date, made from wolf teeth and unearthed in modern Mexico, date from 2500 BC. Over the millennia, materials including bone, ivory, wood and even real human teeth have been used to fashion devices that could replace the look and function of lost teeth.
Modern dentistry has reduced the need for tooth replacement to a great extent, but even today the average American has lost 12 teeth by the age of 50. The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry estimates that over 37 million Americans will be wearing full dentures by the year 2020.
The good news is that modern dentures are far different than those produced even a decade ago. They look more natural, are more comfortable to wear.
The Full Arch Denture
A full arch denture replaces all the teeth in the upper or lower part of your mouth. A base made of acrylic material that is flesh-colored fits neatly over your gums. The tint of the acrylic material can be adjusted to match your mouth. If you have a full-arch denture for your lower set of teeth, the base will be horse-shoe shaped so your mouth and tongue are comfortable. It is critical that your denture fits your mouth exactly. Your dentist will make impressions of your mouth and provide these to the dental laboratory so that you have the perfect fit.
You may already have one or more full arch dentures. If you have had them for some time, it would be in your interest to find out about advances in denture design and materials, especially if you experience any difficulties with chewing, speaking, pain, or irritation. If you are looking for dentures in Modesto, schedule a consultation to speak to Dr. Hillock and find out more.
Caring For Dentures
Dentures don’t last forever.
Over time, they may need to be repaired or new ones created to fit you, due to natural changes in the shape of your mouth as you age. In the meantime, there are steps you can take to ensure they are in good shape:
- Stand over a basin of water or folded towel when you remove them. This way, they won’t break should you drop them by mistake.
- Store your dentures in cleaning solution or water during the times you are not wearing them.
- Avoid very hot water, which can cause dentures to warp.
- Brush your dentures daily.
- Before you put your dentures in your mouth in the morning, use a soft-bristled brush on your gums, tongue and palate.
Contact Us
If you need dentures now, or if you expect to need them in the future, don’t let questions or worries keep you from getting the care that you need. Dr. Hillock and his staff at Hillock Family Dental can answer any questions that you might have about dentures and set your mind at eas
In general, insurance may not cover the full cost of your dentures. We will be happy to find out exactly what you can expect from your policy. We can also help you find financing to cover any remaining costs when needed – we are here to help.