At Dresen Restorative Dentistry, located in the heart of Woodbury, Minnesota, we’re committed to providing personalized dental care with a touch of small-town hospitality.
Dr. Tom Dresen and our dedicated team understand the impact a full smile can have on your life. That’s why we specialize in complete dentures in Woodbury, offering old-school service with high-tech solutions. We are here to make your journey to a full smile as comfortable and effective as possible.
What Are Complete Dentures?
Complete dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace all missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw, or both. Unlike partial dentures that replace only some teeth, complete dentures provide a full set of replacement teeth when all natural teeth are missing or need to be extracted. At Dresen Restorative Dentistry, we craft dentures that fit comfortably, look natural, and work harmoniously with your facial structure.
These custom-made appliances consist of artificial teeth set in a gum-colored base that sits directly on your gums. Dr. Tom Dresen uses advanced materials and techniques to ensure your dentures not only restore function but also maintain the natural appearance of your smile. Our complete dentures are designed to support your facial muscles and jawbone, helping preserve your facial structure while giving you the confidence to smile, speak, and eat comfortably.
When Are Complete Dentures Recommended?
Complete dentures become necessary when patients have lost most or all of their natural teeth. Dr. Tom Dresen typically recommends complete dentures in several situations:
Severe tooth decay that has affected multiple teeth beyond repair is one of the most common reasons. Advanced periodontal disease that has caused significant tooth loss and bone deterioration also makes dentures a viable solution. Patients who have experienced facial trauma or injury resulting in extensive tooth loss often benefit from complete dentures as well.
Additionally, some patients choose complete dentures when they have several failing teeth that would require extensive and costly individual treatments. Dr. Dresen carefully evaluates each patient’s oral health, considering factors like gum health, jawbone structure, and overall medical history to determine if complete dentures are the most appropriate treatment option for their unique situation.
The Complete Denture Process
The journey to your new complete dentures at Dresen Restorative Dentistry begins with a comprehensive consultation with our dentist. During this initial visit, he’ll examine your mouth, discuss your goals and concerns, and explain the entire process in detail.
If extractions are necessary, our dentist will carefully remove any remaining teeth and allow time for healing. Once your gums have healed, precise impressions of your mouth are taken to create dentures that fit perfectly. Multiple appointments ensure proper fit, bite alignment, and aesthetic appearance.
The fabrication process involves creating a custom base that matches your gum color and selecting artificial teeth that complement your facial features and personal preferences. Dr. Dresen works closely with skilled dental technicians to ensure every detail meets his exacting standards. Once your dentures are ready, we’ll schedule a fitting appointment where any necessary adjustments are made to ensure optimal comfort and function.
Benefits of Complete Dentures
Choosing complete dentures in Woodbury with Dr. Dresen brings numerous life-changing benefits. Restored chewing function allows you to enjoy a wider variety of nutritious foods, improving your overall health and quality of life. Clear speech returns as dentures provide the support your tongue and lips need to form words properly.
The aesthetic benefits are equally important. Complete dentures restore your smile’s appearance, boosting self-confidence and social comfort. They also provide crucial support to facial muscles, preventing the sunken appearance that often occurs with tooth loss. This facial support helps maintain a more youthful appearance and proper facial proportions.
From a practical standpoint, complete dentures offer an affordable solution for full mouth restoration compared to individual tooth replacement options. With proper care, they provide years of reliable function and can be adjusted or relined as needed to maintain optimal fit.
Pros and Cons of Complete Dentures
Advantages: Complete dentures offer several compelling benefits. They’re cost-effective compared to implant-supported alternatives, making full mouth restoration accessible to more patients. The treatment timeline is relatively quick, allowing you to restore your smile in a matter of weeks rather than months. Dentures are also completely removable, making cleaning and maintenance straightforward.
Modern dentures look remarkably natural, and Dr. Dresen‘s expertise ensures they’re customized to complement your unique facial features. They can be adjusted or repaired if needed, and replacement is straightforward when the time comes.
Considerations: There is typically an adjustment period as you adapt to wearing dentures. Some patients experience initial difficulty with certain foods or slight changes in speech patterns. Dentures require daily cleaning and proper storage, and periodic adjustments may be needed as your mouth changes over time.
Our dentist and team provide comprehensive guidance to help you navigate these considerations, ensuring you’re fully prepared for life with dentures and have realistic expectations about the adjustment process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get used to new dentures?
Most patients begin feeling comfortable with their new dentures within 2-4 weeks, though the complete adjustment period can take up to three months. Dr. Dresen provides detailed guidance and support throughout this transition, including tips for eating, speaking, and caring for your new dentures. We schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
How do I care for my complete dentures?
Proper denture care involves daily cleaning with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleanser, never regular toothpaste which can be abrasive. Remove and rinse your dentures after eating, and soak them overnight in a denture cleaning solution. Handle them carefully to avoid dropping and cracking. We provide comprehensive aftercare instructions tailored to your specific dentures and lifestyle.
Can I eat normally with complete dentures?
Yes, you can enjoy most of your favorite foods with complete dentures, though there may be an adjustment period. Start with soft foods cut into small pieces, and gradually introduce firmer textures as you become more comfortable. Avoid extremely hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could dislodge or damage your dentures. Our dentist and team will provide specific dietary guidance during your adjustment period.
How often will I need to replace my complete dentures?
With proper care and regular dental visits, complete dentures typically last 5-7 years before replacement is needed. However, your mouth continues to change over time, and periodic relines or adjustments may be necessary to maintain proper fit. We recommend regular check-ups every six months to monitor the fit and condition of your dentures and address any issues early.
Will my dentures be noticeable to others?
At Dresen Restorative Dentistry, we take great pride in creating dentures that look completely natural. Dr. Dresen carefully selects tooth color, shape, and size to complement your facial features and age. Modern denture materials and techniques allow us to create appliances that blend seamlessly with your appearance, giving you confidence in your smile.
What should I do if my dentures become loose or uncomfortable?
Contact our office immediately if you experience persistent discomfort or looseness. Never attempt to adjust dentures yourself, as this can cause damage. Dr. Dresen can quickly assess the issue and make appropriate adjustments. Minor irritation is normal during the initial adjustment period, but ongoing discomfort should always be evaluated professionally.
For those in Woodbury, Minnesota, and surrounding communities including Cottage Grove, Oakdale, and Maplewood looking for dentures near me, Dresen Restorative Dentistry offers a compassionate, personalized approach. Dr. Tom Dresen‘s expertise in prosthodontics, combined with our team’s commitment to old-school service with modern technology, ensures you’ll receive care that’s as unique as your smile. Ready to restore your smile with complete dentures in Woodbury? Call us today at 651-735-1585 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward renewed confidence and function.