What are dentures?
Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth that restore your smile and help you eat and speak more comfortably. Today’s dentures are designed to look far more natural than older versions and can be customized to match your facial features and preferred tooth shade.
At Dr. Bowyer’s office in Vancouver, Washington, dentures are planned around your lifestyle, age, and oral health needs. Whether tooth loss came from injury, gum disease, or decay, dentures can help bring your mouth back to a functional, confident place. A consultation is the best way to determine which type of denture fits your goals and timeline.
What are implant-supported dentures?
Implant-supported dentures are secured to dental implants placed in the jawbone, creating a stable, fixed-feeling set of teeth. They’re often called fixed dentures, full mouth dental implants, or All-on-4 (depending on implant design).
During an implant-supported denture procedure, four to six titanium screws are surgically attached to the patient’s jawbone. Once these screws are fully fused with the jawbone (in around 3-6 months), a customized set of dentures is securely attached to the implants. The implant-supported dentures are semi-permanent, and can only be removed by a dentist. This secure attachment to the jawbone means that fixed dentures look and feel more like natural teeth. Many patients find that this is a superior experience compared to traditional dentures.
Because the denture is anchored to implants instead of relying on adhesives, many people experience more confident chewing and clearer speech. Care is similar to caring for natural teeth, and implants can help reduce ongoing bone and tissue loss in the jaw. Since implant-supported dentures require healthy bone structure, Dr. Bowyer typically evaluates your jawbone health to confirm you’re a good candidate before recommending this option.
Should I choose dental implants or dentures?
Dental implants and dentures both replace missing teeth, but they work in different ways. Implants replace tooth roots and are permanently affixed, while dentures are a removable “full smile” replacement (unless they’re implant-supported).
If you’re missing only one or two teeth and your gums and jaw are healthy, implants may be a good fit. If you’re missing many teeth, dentures or implant-supported dentures may be more practical. The right choice depends on your oral health, bone support, comfort preferences, and budget. A consultation in Vancouver, Washington with Dr. Bowyer is the most reliable way to choose the best long-term solution.
How long do dentures last?
With good hygiene and proper maintenance, dentures often last about five to eight years before replacement is needed. This timeline can vary based on wear, fractures, staining, and changes in how your dentures fit as your mouth naturally changes over time.
In Vancouver, Washington, Dr. Bowyer typically checks dentures at regular visits to evaluate fit, comfort, and signs of damage. Even if dentures still look fine, a refit or replacement may be recommended if they become loose or cause sore spots. Keeping up with checkups helps protect your gum health and keeps your bite functioning well.
What should I expect with my first pair of dentures?
Your first set of dentures usually involves impressions, careful smile customization, and a short adjustment period. Some patients need tooth extractions and may wear temporary dentures while the mouth heals before moving to a final, long-term set.
When you first start wearing dentures, mild discomfort and awkwardness with eating and speaking are common for the first few days. Soft foods can help during the transition. Dr. Bowyer’s Vancouver, Washington team typically schedules follow-up visits to fine-tune the fit and reduce irritation. With a few adjustments and practice, most patients feel significantly more comfortable and confident.
Ready To Take The Next Step?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Bowyer to see if dentures are right for you. You can call us at (360) 253-2640, email us at info@drbowyer.com, or use the form on this page to request a free consultation.
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