Dentures in Old Bridge, NJ
Missing teeth impact not only appearance, but oral health as well. If you’ve lost some or all of your teeth because of trauma, periodontal infection, or decay, dentures from Empire Dental Group are one of the options that can offer you a healthier, more attractive smile.
A denture is a removable dental appliance that replaces missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored base that fits over the gums.
Some of the benefits of getting dentures include:
- Restore chewing function and improve oral health
- Enhance smile and appearance
- Provide a stable platform for eating and speaking
- Provide support for cheeks and lips for a healthier, more youthful appearance
- Restore self-confidence and create a natural-looking smile
Types of Dentures
Our Old Bridge dentist, Dr. Alla Pavlushkin, provides high quality, custom dentures to patients living in and around Old Bridge, NJ, Middlesex County, and Central New Jersey.
Complete (Full) Dentures
- Conventional complete dentures are made after all teeth have been removed and gums have healed.
- Immediate dentures are placed right after teeth removal so the patient doesn’t go without teeth during healing. These dentures are fabricated in advance before any necessary extractions occur, and can be placed right away, without waiting for the gums and bone to heal. Because the gums and jawbone can shrink after tooth loss, it might take several months of adjustments to create the most comfortable fit. Immediate dentures are often used as a temporary denture.
Partial Dentures
- Removable partial dentures (RPDs) replace some missing teeth while natural teeth remain.
- Precision or attachment partial dentures use internal attachments instead of visible clasps for a more natural look. Partial dentures replace multiple missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Most of them require healthy adjacent teeth for secure placement. Unlike bridges, which are fixed permanently to adjacent teeth, partial dentures are removable and are held in place with different types of attachments.
Implant-Supported Dentures
- Overdentures snap onto dental implants for more stability compared to traditional dentures. Dental implants are first surgically placed in the jawbone where they fuse with the bone over a period of months. Once the implants are secure, removable dentures are fabricated that clip onto the implants. (Fixed dentures are also an option, attached to the implants using special screws which can only be removed by a dentist.) This type of denture is very secure, and, because implants stimulate jawbone tissue like natural tooth roots do, helps prevent bone loss.
Dentures at Empire Dental Group
The process of getting dentures at our Old Bridge, NJ dental office involves several stages to ensure a comfortable and customized fit that meets your functional and aesthetic needs.
1. Initial Consultation
- Dr. Pavlushkin evaluates your oral health and discusses your needs and expectations. X-rays may be taken at this visit; this is a diagnostic tool so Dr. Pavlushkin can check the general health of your gums and teeth.
- Together, you’ll decide on the type of denture (full, partial, immediate, or implant-supported).
2. Tooth Extraction (if needed)
- If you still have remaining teeth that can’t be saved, they may need to be removed.
- Healing time is often required before placing conventional dentures (usually a few weeks to a few months).
3. Impressions and Measurements
- Dr. Pavlushkin will take detailed impressions (molds) of your gums, bite, and any remaining teeth.
- Measurements are made to ensure your dentures will fit comfortably and look natural.
4. Wax Models / Try-In Stage
- A wax model or “trial denture” is created to test the fit, bite, and appearance.
- You’ll have a chance to see how your new smile looks and request adjustments.
5. Fabrication of Final Dentures
- The dental lab fabricates the final dentures using acrylic resin or other suitable materials.
- Color, shape, and size of the teeth are customized to suit your facial features.
Eating with Dentures
When you first get dentures, there are some food restrictions while your mouth adjusts. Over time, most people return to eating a wide variety of foods, but a few precautions can help protect your dentures and keep you comfortable.
Right after getting dentures (adjustment period) we recommend the following:
- Stick to soft foods: mashed potatoes, yogurt, eggs, applesauce, oatmeal, smoothies, cooked vegetables, soft fish.
- Cut food into small pieces to make chewing easier.
- Chew slowly and evenly on both sides of your mouth to keep dentures stable.
- Avoid sticky or hard foods at first (caramel, nuts, seeds, tough meats).
Foods to Limit or Avoid with Dentures
- Hard foods: Nuts, hard candy, raw carrots, popcorn kernels (risk of breaking or dislodging dentures).
- Sticky foods: Chewing gum, caramel, taffy, peanut butter (can pull dentures out of place).
- Tough meats: Steak, ribs, or pork chops (difficult to chew without cutting into very small pieces).
- Foods with small seeds: Sesame seeds, strawberry seeds, popcorn hulls (can get trapped under dentures and irritate gums).
- Very hot foods and drinks: Dentures insulate your mouth, making it harder to judge temperature. You may burn your mouth without realizing.
Tips for Eating with Dentures
- Use denture adhesive if recommended by your dentist for extra stability.
- Take small bites and chew slowly.
- Drink water with meals to help wash food down and prevent dryness.
- Try different cooking methods (slow-cooking, steaming, chopping) to make foods easier to chew.
Most people adapt well after a few weeks to months. If eating continues to be painful or certain foods always cause problems, Dr. Pavlushkin may need to adjust or reline your dentures.
Oral Care Instructions
Dr. Pavlushkin will provide guidance on how to care for and maintain your dentures. Proper cleaning and storage are essential to prolong their lifespan and ensure oral health.
- Remove and rinse dentures after eating.
- Handle your dentures carefully.
- Clean your mouth after removing your dentures.
- Brush your dentures at least daily.
- Soak dentures overnight.
- Rinse dentures thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth, especially if using a denture-soaking solution.
What makes Empire Dental Group unique for dentures?
- Personalized care from start to finish: We don’t just “fit” dentures; we take the time to listen to your needs, explain your options, and design dentures that look natural, fit comfortably, and restore your confidence.
- All services under one roof. From extractions to implants, relines, and adjustments, we provide the full spectrum of denture care in-house, so you won’t have to travel between offices.
- Advanced technology: Our office uses modern digital imaging and precise techniques to ensure the best possible fit and function for your dentures.
- Comfort-focused approach: We know adjusting to dentures can feel overwhelming. Our team is gentle, patient, and committed to making your experience smooth and stress-free.
- Long-term support: We don’t stop at delivering your dentures. We provide ongoing care, adjustments, and education so you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence for years to come.