Replacing missing teeth has substantial benefits for your health and your appearance. A full denture replaces all your natural teeth and provides support for cheeks and lips. Without this support, sagging facial muscles can make a person appear older and by replacing missing teeth, dentures improve a person's ability to speak and eat.

Complete dentures are called "conventional" or "immediate" according to when they are made and when they are inserted into the mouth. Conventional dentures are made and inserted after your remaining teeth are removed and the tissues have healed. Healing may take several months. Immediate dentures are inserted immediately after the removal of the remaining teeth. To make this possible Dr. Cannon takes measurements and makes models of her patient's jaws during a preliminary visit. An advantage of immediate dentures is that the wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. However, bones and gums can shrink over time, especially during the period of healing in the first six months after the removal of teeth. When gums shrink, immediate dentures may require relining to fit properly.

An over-denture is one that fits over a small number of remaining natural teeth that have been prepared by Dr. Cannon. The prepared teeth provide stability and support for the denture. Dr. Cannon can determine if an over-denture would be suitable for you.

New dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them. The dentures may feel loose while the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place. It is not unusual to experience minor irritation or soreness. You may find that saliva flow temporarily increases. As your mouth becomes accustomed to the dentures, these problems should diminish. One or more follow-up appointments with Dr. Cannon are generally needed after a denture is inserted. If any problem persists, particularly irritation or soreness, consult Dr. Cannon.

Even with a full denture, you still need to take good care of your mouth. Every morning, brush your gums, tongue and palate with a soft-bristled brush before you put in your dentures. This removes plaque and stimulates circulation in the mouth. Selecting a balanced diet for proper nutrition is also important for maintaining a healthy mouth.

Dr. Cannon will advise you about how often to visit, as regular dental check-ups are important. Dr. Cannon will examine your mouth to see if your dentures continue to fit properly, as well as examining your mouth for signs of oral diseases, including cancer!