Frequently Asked Questions
It’s totally normal to have a lot of questions for your prosthodontist, especially at the beginning of your smile restoration process. For your convenience, we have compiled a list of questions and answers to help clarify some common things we get asked. If you don’t see your question or you have a specific concern for us, please contact our office, and we will be happy to assist you.
Contact UsWhat is a board-certified prosthodontist?
Prosthodontists undergo extensive training and education to learn how to repair and replace teeth effectively and efficiently, in addition to learning general dentistry. Board-certified prosthodontists must pass a rigorous exam conducted by the American Board of Prosthodontics, and they must be recertified periodically to maintain their title. Dr. Rigby is proud to be a board-certified prosthodontist.
Who is eligible for dental implants?
If you are interested in using dental implants to replace one or more missing teeth, one of the first things our team will do during your consultation is assess your jawbone health. When a tooth or several teeth have been missing for many years, the jawbone tissue can deteriorate, and a bone graft is sometimes needed before implants can be placed. Patients should be in general good health as well.
How do you take care of dentures?
Dentures need to be removed from the mouth and brushed with a soft-bristle toothbrush and denture cleaner at least once per day. We also recommend soaking them in a denture solution overnight to keep them moist, kill bacteria, and help them retain their custom shape. Taking great care of your dentures is what will help them look great and last for many years.
Can I eat normally with dentures or implants?
Dentures and dental implants both require some getting used to at first, but patients should be able to enjoy most if not all of their favorite foods once again. It’s a good idea to start out with soft foods first, and once you are comfortable with that, start cutting up tougher food and chewing it with your back teeth. Eventually, you shouldn’t have to think twice about eating.
Are dentures painful?
It’s completely normal to experience some soreness and discomfort as you get used to wearing dentures, especially if you had any teeth extracted. You can try rinsing with a warm saltwater solution, taking pain medication, and giving your gums frequent breaks during this time. Make sure you are cleaning your dentures properly, and if you’re still in pain after a few weeks, please let our team know.
Are dentures and implants permanent?
Our dentures are designed to last for many years, but they are not “permanent” in the sense that they will last forever. Dental implants, on the other hand, frequently last patients for the rest of their lives. Implant crowns can last up to 25 years or longer, while the titanium implant itself is likely to last for many decades in the jawbone with no need to repair or replace it.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team!
