Uncategorized Archives - Sapphire Denture

A Story of Compassion and Service at Sapphire Denture Clinic

Sapphire Denture — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 20:00:06 +0000

What Motivates Dr. Senan Najar to Keep Moving Forward: A Story of Compassion and Service at Sapphire Denture Clinic

At the heart of every dental practice lies a genuine commitment to improving patients’ lives. For many dentists, this commitment stems from a deep-seated desire to help others—whether it’s through routine cleanings, complex procedures, or emergency care. But for Dr. Senan Najar, the motivation runs deeper. It’s not just about providing treatment. It’s also about making a real difference, especially when patients face unique challenges that might be overlooked. With his service at Sapphire Denture Clinic, Dr. Najar aims to provide personalized care to each unique patient he meets.

What unique needs does Dr. Najar face?

Recently, Dr. Najar had the opportunity to provide care to a patient whose case left a lasting impact on him. One of his new patients was a blind and disabled individual who required a complex surgical tooth extraction. For many local dentists in Bellingham, WA, this situation is difficult to navigate. The patient’s mobility issues and blindness made it nearly impossible for them to receive the care they needed in a traditional dental setting. Unfortunately, the patient’s options for local treatment were limited. Their only other choice would have been to travel to Seattle—an exhausting round trip of about four hours. For someone with special needs, the logistics of such a trip are daunting. The patient would have needed special transportation, accommodations, and significant planning. This creates a barrier that many people with disabilities face when seeking care. Especially for dental procedures that require frequent follow-ups and ongoing attention, the task of basic dental care can feel impossible. However, thanks to Sapphire Denture Clinic, this individual was able to receive the necessary treatment right here in Bellingham. The clinic was equipped with the tools and accessibility features to accommodate their needs. Dr. Najar was able to perform the surgical extraction in a safe, comfortable, and familiar environment. The relief on the patient’s face, and the gratitude in their words, left Dr. Najar deeply content with his work that day.

What is it all about?

It’s not just the technical aspects of providing treatment that motivate Dr. Najar. It’s the ability to make a real difference in the lives of patients who may otherwise be turned away. This patient’s case is a perfect example of the powerful impact that personalized, compassionate care can have. Dr. Najar recognizes that not all patients have the same access to care. As a healthcare provider, it’s his mission to bridge that gap. He works hard to accommodate special needs, provide education about dental health, and a sense of comfort and trust. These are the moments that make the work meaningful. For Dr. Najar, it’s not just about fixing teeth—it’s about providing a service that enhances the overall well-being of each patient. Helping this individual avoid the stress and complications of a lengthy trip to Seattle, and instead offering a local solution, was more than a job well done; it was a rewarding experience that reaffirmed his passion for dentistry. Every day, the motivation to serve his community and support patients in need pushes Dr. Najar to do his best. It’s the stories like these—the ones about going above and beyond for patients in vulnerable situations—that keep him moving forward, always striving to make a difference. As a dentist at Sapphire Denture Clinic, the ability to provide high-quality care, support accessibility, and offer personalized service is what drives Dr. Najar to continue his work with enthusiasm and heart. It’s the small victories, like making dental care accessible to all, that remind him why he chose this profession in the first place.

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Understanding Bone Resorption

Sapphire Denture — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 20:47:45 +0000

At Sapphire Denture Clinic, we don’t just prioritize the health of your teeth. The overall health of your gums and bones is incredibly important to your oral well-being. One important aspect of oral health that often gets overlooked is bone resorption. You might hear it more commonly called “bone loss”. This condition can have a significant impact on your oral and overall health, especially when left untreated. In this article, we’ll explain what bone resorption is and the causes behind it. We’ll explore the treatment options available, and how you can prevent or slow down its progression.

What is Bone Resorption?

Bone resorption is a process in which bone tissue breaks down, and its mineral content is released into the bloodstream. This natural process occurs in the body regularly, but when it occurs excessively in the jawbone, it can lead to the loss of bone density. In the context of dental health, bone resorption can affect the bones that support your teeth, leading to tooth mobility, gum recession, and in severe cases, tooth loss.

Tooth loss results in a lack of stimulation to the alveolar bone, which can cause deterioration over time.

Causes

Several factors can contribute to bone resorption, particularly in the jaw. These include:

Tooth Loss: When a tooth is lost or extracted and not replaced, the bone that once supported the tooth begins to resorb over time. The jawbone requires the stimulation that occurs during chewing and biting to maintain its density. Without a tooth, this stimulation diminishes, and the bone starts to break down.
Gum Disease: Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is one of the leading causes of bone loss. The infection from gum disease can cause inflammation that weakens the bone structure supporting the teeth. Over time, this can result in significant bone loss and even tooth loss if not addressed.
Age: As we age, our bones naturally lose some of their density, which can lead to a higher risk of bone resorption. This is a gradual process but can become more pronounced in individuals who already have dental health concerns.
Osteoporosis: A systemic condition like osteoporosis can make bones in the body, including those in the jaw, more prone to resorption. Those with osteoporosis are more likely to experience bone loss in the jaw.
Infection or Injury: Any trauma or infection in the jaw, whether from a broken tooth, untreated dental infection, or an injury to the face, can cause bone resorption in the affected area.
The loss of a tooth without replacement to stimulate the bone, can cause bone deterioration and may result in the loss of healthy teeth.

Treatment Options

If you’re experiencing bone resorption, the good news is that there are treatment options available to help restore lost bone or prevent further deterioration.

Dental Implants: The most effective way to combat bone resorption is through dental implants. These titanium posts are surgically placed into the jawbone. They provide the necessary stimulation to maintain bone density. When a tooth is missing, dental implants act as a substitute tooth root, helping to prevent further bone loss.
Bone Grafting: If there has already been significant bone loss, bone grafting may be an option. In this procedure, bone material is added to the affected area to encourage new bone growth. Bone grafts can help restore lost bone density and prepare the jaw for implants if necessary.
Sinus Lift Surgery: In cases where bone loss has occurred in the upper jaw, sinus lift surgery may be performed. This procedure raises the sinus floor to make room for a bone graft, allowing the area to heal and restore bone volume for the placement of dental implants.
Ridge Augmentation: This technique is used when the jawbone has been significantly resorbed in the area of a missing tooth. Ridge augmentation involves adding bone to the area to build up the ridge. This makes it possible to restore the natural contour of the jaw and improve the function and appearance of the teeth.
Periodontal Treatment: If bone resorption has been caused by gum disease, periodontal treatments will prevent further damage. This may include scaling and root planing, or in more severe cases, surgical intervention may be required.

How to Prevent or Slow Down Bone Resorption

Prevention is always better than treatment. Here are some key steps you can take to prevent or slow down bone resorption:

Regular Dental Checkups: Regular visits to Sapphire Denture Clinic for checkups and cleanings are essential to catch any signs of gum disease, tooth loss, or bone loss early. Catching bone resorption early makes treatment more effective and less invasive.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Gum disease is a leading cause of bone loss. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash can help prevent this. Be sure to clean your teeth and gums thoroughly to reduce the risk of infections.
Replace Missing Teeth: If you have lost a tooth, replace it as soon as possible with a dental implant or another restorative solution. Doing so will help preserve the bone in your jaw by providing stimulation to the bone.
Quit Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease and bone loss. If you smoke, quitting can help protect your oral health and prevent further bone resorption.
Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients essential for bone health is crucial. Foods like dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified cereals supports your bones and slow down the resorption process.
Stay Active: Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, running, or weightlifting, can help strengthen your bones and reduce the risk of bone loss, including in the jaw.
Treat Underlying Conditions: If you have osteoporosis or another systemic condition that contributes to bone resorption, work with your healthcare provider to manage and treat these conditions.

Conclusion

Bone resorption can have significant consequences for your oral health. But with early detection and the right treatment, it can be managed effectively. Whether you are experiencing tooth loss, gum disease, or other risk factors, Sapphire Denture Clinic is here to help. Our team of dental professionals (including Dr. Senan Najar) is dedicated to providing you with personalized care and the latest treatments to preserve your oral health and restore lost bone. Contact us today to schedule your appointment, and let’s work together to ensure that your teeth and jawbones remain healthy for years to come.

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What to Expect from your Dentures

Sapphire Denture — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 00:25:47 +0000

Setting a realistic expectation:

A common saying about dentures is that dentures are not a replacement for your teeth: They are a replacement for no teeth. Dentures are much better for your health, aesthetics, and comfort than being toothless, but they’ll never be real teeth. It can be hard to know what to expect from your dentures. Because dentures won’t ever “perfectly” replace natural teeth, there isn’t a guarantee of a “perfect” denture. If you’re expecting your dentures to work just like the teeth you used to have, you’re going to be disappointed. You have to be patient and adjust to wearing your denture to get the most out of it.

It can take time for your mouth to adjust to the fit and feeling of your new dentures.

However, that doesn’t mean you should settle for a pair of poor-quality dentures. The technology exists today to make dentures look nice, feel nice, and work well for you to eat and speak with. That said, it’s hard to know what “working well” even means. A lot of the denture process is working to get used to the feel of having a new prosthetic appliance. It feels foreign because it is foreign – and it will take you a while to learn to use them. Soreness is a part of the process, and goes away after time. It can be a challenge to discern if your pain is normal or if your denture is causing excessive pain. It may take a few weeks for you to be able to recognize if your denture needs adjusting. It’s important to be patient and understand that your gums have to strengthen and adjust just the same way that you would have to retrain your muscles to use a prosthetic arm or leg.

Dentures after extractions

If you are taking home an “interim”, or “healing” denture, immediately after your extractions, your dentures won’t fit perfectly. Your mouth is changing rapidly after suddenly losing teeth. That’s ok – after your mouth is healed enough to take impressions (usually 4-6 months), you will have a new set of dentures made that will fit your changed mouth much better. For the first few weeks after getting new dentures, you need to be patient to find out how your mouth will adjust. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to try to bear with excruciating pain. If wearing your dentures is unbearable, don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re uncertain, it doesn’t hurt to give your dentist or denturist a call to discuss your concerns.

Be sure to communicate your needs with your denturist. We’re happy to help!

Learning to use your dentures is a slow process. Not just because your mouth is going to be sore from adjusting to a prosthesis, but also because you now have to learn to eat and speak with that prosthesis. Many people get the feeling that their dentures are much too large, because they can feel so unwieldy before you get used to them. Many people will get adjustments or relines a few weeks after extractions, once they’ve been able to identify rough spots on their denture. It can (and probably will) take even longer to feel completely comfortable in your dentures.

What to expect from your dentures in the long-term:

It can take a long time to build up to the point of eating tough, chewy foods again, if you get there at all – again, dentures can’t guarantee all of the same functions as natural teeth, so there may be somethings you won’t be able to eat the same way as before. Your goal in your dentures shouldn’t be to make them work just like your real teeth did: Your goal should be a pain-free, functional substitute. In short: yes, you can expect your dentures to function to eat food and speak, and they shouldn’t hurt to wear. However, the full extent of what you can really eat will probably always be limited. It might take several weeks to a few months for soreness from new dentures to fully go away. Your dentures won’t ever feel exactly like your natural teeth used to. The process is different for each person, so you shouldn’t feel discouraged if it might be taking you a bit longer than someone else to feel good in your new teeth. It can be hard to know what to expect. Clear communication with your dentist or denturist is the best way to ensure you are confident about what you need. You can learn about all the steps in the process, and find out what to expect from your dentures. At Sapphire Denture Clinic, our denturists, Jin You and Anna Uvarov, work hard to make sure their patients needs are met and their concerns are understood.

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How do dentures affect your appearance?

Sapphire Denture — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 21:06:42 +0000

What happens when you don’t have teeth?

Before you start to wonder how dentures will affect your appearance, you might first want to think: How will not having teeth affect your appearance? Teeth do more for your mouth than just chew and look pearly. They also provide support to the soft tissues in your cheeks to stay in place. Teeth won’t completely stop your face from sagging, but they do prevent it. If your teeth are gone, then your jawbone will also begin to lose density and structure. Overall, your face can age quicker than it would if all of the parts it needs were still there.

The affect of tooth loss on your facial appearance.

Dentures are not considered a perfect replacement for your natural teeth. They are a replacement for having no teeth at all. Dentures can’t bring back muscle strength and tenacity that is already gone. However, if you don’t wait too long to acknowledge that you might need dentures and to begin the process, dentures may help your face to retain the support structure that it still has. Implant-supported dentures can continue to stimulate your bone the way that your teeth did. This keeps your bone from deteriorating the way it might without implants. Dentures by themselves cannot prevent your jawbone from deteriorating, and they can’t stop your face from aging; however, they can substitute for some of the facial muscle support that your natural teeth used to offer. Ultimately, dentures aren’t able to perfectly replace what isn’t there, but they can help your muscles and bone maintain integrity.

How do you want your new teeth to look?

After you understand how dentures will affect your whole face, you can think about your smile. How do you want it to look? Your denture teeth can be modeled to look perfectly straight and white, if you want. More often people will request that they look as much like their former natural teeth as possible. That can even include some “imperfections” – if you had a gap between your front teeth that you feel was characteristic to your smile, then that can be recreated in your denture.

A tooth shade guide is used to select the perfect shade for your new denture.

When you talk to your dentist, denturist, or prosthodontist about getting dentures, you should be able to look at a set of tooth shade colors. You can select the tooth color you want, whether you want to match your natural teeth or pick a “Hollywood” white. Sometimes, people will provide a picture of the way their teeth used to look, so that their dentures can provide them with the same smile they’ve had their whole life. The aesthetic of your denture is an important things to keep in mind when designing your denture. It is just as significant as function, retention, longevity, and a comfortable fit. Just because aesthetics aren’t necessarily a part of your oral health, doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your appearance. Be sure to talk with your denturist about how you want your smile to look. At Sapphire Denture Clinic, our denture team takes pride in our work. Our goal is for each patient to leave with the smile they deserve, and to be satisfied with our prices, our service, and our products.

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What are my options for dentures?

Sapphire Denture — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 20:54:21 +0000

What types of dentures are there?

If you are beginning to wonder if you need dentures, you may not realize the options that are available to you. Besides the average-appearing set of dentures you might see floating in a glass of water on your grandma’s bathroom counter, there are a few other options for dentures. Certain types of dentures can improve retention, increase comfort, and even to allow you to taste food better.

Traditional Dentures

Traditional dentures are probably the most common, and also the most cost-effective style of denture. They are held in your mouth by the suction of the base material. It’s not uncommon for people with traditional dentures to struggle with their dentures shifting or clicking. This can worsen as you continue wearing your dentures – not because of the dentures, but because your mouth is changing. When your mouth no longer has teeth to help maintain bone structure, it will lose bone density, and the shape of your gums and your bone ridge will change. Often, people facing this issue will go back to their dentist and get their dentures relined or rebased entirely. This means that a new layer of acrylic base will be added, or the base is completely replaced. A reline or rebase is often a solution to uncomfortable dentures. Between relining, and the cost-effectiveness, traditional dentures could be a sensible choice if you find yourself needing dentures. After you have your teeth extracted, you may need to wait for your extraction sites to heal before having dentures made. If you’re not looking forward to the idea of going so long without teeth, immediate dentures are an option. Immediate dentures are made before your teeth are extracted, and placed on the same day or the day after your extractions. The downside to immediate dentures is that it is harder to fabricate a comfortable fit. This is because the denturist cannot know exactly what your mouth will look like without teeth. However, immediate dentures can easily be relined after they are delivered. Immediate dentures are a good option for somebody who can’t go without teeth.

Implant-supported dentures

Snap-on Dentures

A kind of dentures that offer better retention are implant-supported dentures. These dentures are typically very similar to traditional dentures; they look very similar and are made of the same materials. The defining difference between traditional and implant-supported dentures is in their relationship to your bone ridge. Implant-supported dentures have small caps in the underside, which ‘snap-on’ to implants placed in your bone ridge. For this reason these dentures are well-known as “snap-on” dentures, they snap into place the same way a puzzle piece clicks into place. The process of making implant-supported dentures is very precise. After implants are placed and have properly healed, impressions of the mouth are taken. The denture is made so that the caps in the denture line up perfectly with the abutments on the implant. This way, the denture fits and retains comfortably.

Fixed Dentures

Permanent dentures, sometimes called fixed dentures or “All-on-X”, are the most natural-appearing denture option available. However, they are also the most expensive. These dentures are commonly described to be the closest available substitute for real teeth, and the procedure to extract teeth and place implants is often completed in a single, although more extensive surgery. Permanent dentures are not removed nightly, and instead are connected to implants in your bone. Permanent dentures are only removed by the dentist during exams to be cleaned, and outside of exams you would brush just like you would brush your natural teeth. Because these dentures are fixed in place, this also means that there is no plate of base material that goes over the roof of your mouth – the roof of your mouth is where many of your taste buds are. This means that, while with traditional or implant-supported dentures, you might not be able to taste your food as well, permanent dentures would still allow you to fully taste your food.

Partial Dentures

In addition to traditional, implant-supported, and permanent dentures, partial dentures are available if some of your teeth are still healthy and functional. Smaller dentures can be fabricated which are held in place by wires, or abutments attached to neighboring, healthy teeth. It’s important that you make sure to maintain good oral hygiene. Poor hygiene with a partial denture may lead to losing more teeth down the road. This very likely means that you would need to have your partial denture remade.

Interim dentures

A final concern that some people have is for the healing process. For dentures to be crafted to your mouth, impressions have to be made. To take ideal impressions, the impressions need to be taken after teeth are extracted. You might be concerned about being completely without teeth for the healing process and waiting for your dentures to be made. Healing dentures are designed for this purpose – they can be worn while your gums and bone ridge are healing, and can be brought home the day your teeth are extracted at the beginning of your denture process. However, healing dentures cannot be contoured to your mouth as well as a final denture. They might not fit as well or look as natural. But, if you are concerned about going without teeth during your healing process, they could be something to consider. In any case, dentures are designed with your needs in mind. This means when the gums are being molded, teeth are set, and any wires or attachments are placed, they are meant to fit your mouth. With the technology and training available today, dentures can be a sound choice for somebody struggling with their oral health. At Sapphire Denture Clinic, Dr. Najar and Jin You work hard to make sure each patient has a personalized and comfortable process for their dentures. From the first consult to the last adjustment, they are dedicated to quality work, long-lasting prosthetics, and excellent patient care.

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Dental Implants

Sapphire Denture — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 16:17:41 +0000

What to expect: Implants

Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or to support a denture or bridge to replace multiple teeth. While they appear to only have an aesthetic benefit, implants serve more purpose than appearances. They also serve as a substitute for natural teeth in that they stimulate the bone beneath them. This causes the bone to stay dense and healthy, promoting better and longer-lasting oral health. When having an implant placed to replace a single tooth, a crown is placed on the abutment connected to the implant, similar to when a crown is placed on a natural tooth. If dental implants are placed to support a denture, there are two options. The first is the traditional “snap-in” implant-supported denture. Usually, two or four implants (sometimes more) are placed. Abutments are later attached to the implants, and an attachment is placed in the denture. The attachment in the denture fits to the abutment on the implant, creating a “snap-in” denture. Denture retention is significantly improved compared to a traditional denture, which holds on by suction.

All-On-X Restorations:

“All-on-X” dentures are a more complex type of implant-supported dentures. However, All-On-X, or permanent dentures, are considered the closest available prosthetic to natural teeth. These fixed dentures are screwed into place, into heavier-duty dental implants. They are not removed at night like traditional dentures; they are only removed by the dentist during regular maintenance appointments. Fixed dentures are more durable than snap-in dentures and are designed to last a lifetime. An implant traditionally consists of 3 parts: The implant post, the abutment, and the crown (or an attachment in a denture). The implant post will be placed first, and be allowed to heal for 4-6 months before the next appointment. There is a possibility of needing a “second-stage” surgery after about 2 months, in which the implant is re-exposed (if the gum has grown over it) and a healing cap is placed on the implant. After the implant has fully integrated with your natural bone, it will be time for the next stage of your treatment.

Before implant placement:

Your dentist’s office will discuss with you the different sedation options and the preoperative instructions for whichever option you choose. Depending on what type of sedation you are choose, you may not be able to eat for 4 hours before your appointment. Without breaking these restrictions, you should remember that your diet will be limited during your recovery. It would be beneficial to eat a healthy meal beforehand. Another type of sedation involves taking 1 or 2 pills at a set time before your appointment. Take careful note of the dental office’s instructions and be sure to take the proper dosage at the proper time. This ensure the best sedative effect during your appointment. Before any oral surgery, your dentist may recommend that you utilize an antimicrobial oral gel or mouth rinse to prepare. This can be especially important for dental implant procedures, where good bone and gum health are important to ensure successful implant placement and integration. Therefore, it is also important to brush and floss regularly to improve and maintain your oral health.

After implant placement:

After an implant is placed, it will be necessary to wait for the implant to “osseointegrate”. This means that the titanium material of the implant will securely bond with your bone. Typically, this takes about 4-6 months. Your dentist may recommend using an antimicrobial recovery kit, to build a habit of good oral health, and to ensure that your recovery is as quick and painless as possible. Just like with other oral surgeries, you should be careful not to aggravate the area, which means being careful about what you eat (See What to Expect: Oral Surgeries for more information about what to eat and when during your recovery). In many cases, usually about 16 weeks after your implant placement, you will need to have an “implant exposure”. This is a short, simple procedure that involves exposing your implant from where the gum has healed over it A small healing cap is placed on the implant to keep the gum from growing back. If your implant is placed to replace a single tooth, your next visit after complete osseointegration will be to place the abutment on the implant post—this is the connecting piece between the implant post, which substitutes for the tooth root, and the implant crown. Shortly after the abutment is placed, the final crown can be seated. For an implant to support a denture, abutments will still be placed. After healing, rather than placing an implant crown, it will be time to start having a denture made. If you have been wearing a conventional denture while you wait for the implants to heal, then your denture can be modified to have the necessary attachments added.

Implant-supported dentures at Sapphire Denture Clinic

At Sapphire Denture Clinic, our dental implant procedures are planned carefully. Dr. Najar is particular in his assessment of a patient’s oral health needs to regain a functional and aesthetic smile. Jin You makes dentures with precision, and takes care to ensure that the fit to the implants is comfortably secure. For single-tooth implants, our sister office, Diamond Dental, offers single-tooth replacements with the same quality assurance. If you’re near Bellingham, Washington call (360)483-0393 to schedule a free consultation.

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Handling Pain with New Dentures

Sapphire Denture — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 21:04:52 +0000

I just got my teeth extracted. What next?

When you’re getting dentures for the first time, it can be hard to know what to expect. Your teeth need to be extracted, your mouth is going to change, and when you first put them in your mouth, your dentures aren’t exactly going to be comfortable. Pain with new dentures is to be expected, but it’s hard to navigate. It’s common wait for some months after their extractions to have permanent dentures made. Permanent dentures often require fewer adjustments, because they’re not made until after the mouth is healed. Other people are, understandably, concerned about the prospect of going toothless for any amount of time. That’s why another option is immediate dentures, which can be worn “immediately” after your extractions. These dentures don’t always fit as well as permanents, but they are relined after your mouth has healed and the changes in your mouth have slowed.

But what does it mean for your mouth to change after extractions?

It’s important to understand the changes your mouth goes through after having teeth extracted. Your teeth provided important support for the rest of your mouth – your jawbone, for example, maintained its shape and strength because of the healthy, living teeth connected to it. Now that there is nothing to support, your jawbone will recede as your body will resorb the unneeded bone. Muscles which no longer need to work, and now have less bone to attach to, will also lose strength. This means that your mouth will change significantly after losing teeth, particularly in the first few months after extractions. (This is why many people wait a few months to have dentures made.) While these changes will slow exponentially, and eventually go unnoticed, your mouth will never completely finish changing. This is why dentures, even if they fit well at first, may need to be replaced several years later.

Be patient as you adjust to your new teeth.

When you first receive a new set of dentures, you have a lot of breaking-in time to anticipate. Whether your dentures are placed immediately after extractions, or if you waited for your mouth to heal before getting new ones, it takes time for your mouth to adjust to the feeling of a hard prosthetic. Think of the extensive physical therapy that people go through after having a hip or knee joint replaced. Just like a new pair of shoes, your dentures won’t feel like a part of your person until you’ve worn them a while, and grown accustomed to how they feel. With time, they shouldn’t cause pain. Popping them in every morning will feel just as natural as putting on socks and shoes to go out for the day. You should expect to feel a lot of tugs and pinches you’ve probably never felt before. This will go away as your gums develop callouses and toughen up. Typically, people will wait until a few weeks after they receive their dentures to go in for an adjustment – that way, their mouths will have time to adjust to the dentures, and the problem areas can be defined. Some of your soreness may even be only because of your oral tissues shifting and readjusting to not having teeth.

How much pain is too much pain?

It’s important to be patient with yourself as you adjust to new dentures. However, this doesn’t mean that you should ignore all of your pain, expecting it to go away eventually. Pain with new dentures can be hard to gauge if an adjustment is needed. If they are so tight or so loose that your ability too eat or speak is dramatically affected, then you may need an adjustment. If the edges of your denture feel sharp – particularly on the muscles that stretch from your cheeks to your bone ridge – or if they poke and rub so much that your mouth is bleeding, then don’t be afraid to call your dentist. Knowing what level of discomfort is a concern can be tricky. Sometimes, it can be like the difference between a bothersome pebble in your shoe, and stepping on glass. Other times, it can be hard to tell. The best way to prevent uncertainty is a lot of communication. When you get your teeth extracted, when you try in your dentures for the first time, and when you take them home, ask your dentist what to expect, and tell them what you’re worried about. Your dentist will help you make the best plan to prevent pain and uncertainty, and help you address any obstacles.

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What to Expect: Oral Surgeries

Sapphire Denture — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 18:36:26 +0000

Your dentist or prosthodontist may tell you that you need to have an oral surgery, before you can proceed with the process of getting dentures. Whether it’s extractions, an alveoloplasty, or something else, your dentist can help inform you about what to expect before, during, and after your oral surgery. If you’re concerned about pain or anxiety during the procedure, be sure to ask about your options for sedation. By carefully following post-operative instructions, and being patient with your new set of needs, you can recover smoothly and quickly.

Extractions:

An extraction is a common oral surgery procedure. If a tooth is too infected or critically broken, then your dentist may recommend that the tooth be extracted. This procedure can be done for multiple teeth at once if needed, particularly if the patient is getting ready for a bridge or denture. Often, extractions are not seen as major surgeries where local anesthesia or other sedatives are administered. Sometimes, depending on the location and mobility of the tooth, an extraction can be performed without surgical procedures. This is considered a “simple” extraction. Even when a “surgical” extraction is required, the incisions are small, and the procedure is generally straightforward. With attentive post-recovery care, complications post surgeries can be easily avoided. Your dentist might suggest having a bone graft placed at the extraction site. If a bone graft is not placed, the space left by the extracted tooth could cause neighboring teeth to shift, leading to potential oral health issues such as difficulty cleaning misaligned teeth. The bone graft material is designed to fuse with your natural bone, maintaining normal teeth spacing and the density of your alveolar ridge (the bone ridge holding your teeth). Additionally, preserving teeth spacing and bone density supports better oral health and allows for future implant placement.

Other Oral Surgeries:

Other oral surgeries you may anticipate include augmenting your bone ridge, removing bony growths, or removing/replacing the soft tissues of your mouth. These surgeries are often needed to prepare for dentures, implants, or other planned procedures. In an alveoloplasty, bone graft material (or your own bone) is used to reshape and smooth the alveolar ridge. Bone material may be added in some places or removed in others. The result is an alveolar ridge that has a shape suitable for creating a good suction and comfortable fit for dentures, or for placing implants in a strong foundation for implant-supported dentures. In addition to bone surgeries, you may have abnormalities with your soft tissue that need to be removed or adjusted. You may need to have tissue growths removed that are abnormal to the regular shape of your mouth. Depending on the size and location of any growths or features, they may interfere with your bite or your speech. Having these abnormalities taken care of is standard preparation for getting dentures, fixing interferences with your bite or speech, or otherwise improving your oral health.

Preparation Before Oral Surgery:

Before your oral surgery, it is important to maintain your oral health. Your dentist may recommend an antimicrobial mouthwash to be used before your surgery, and alongside regular recovery instructions. It’s important to maintain good oral health before oral surgery to reduce the risk of post-surgery infections or complications that could prolong your recovery. Even if you are having teeth extracted, a habit of good oral hygiene is important. Your prosthetics will need to be cleaned just as often as your natural teeth.

After Oral Surgery:

Immediately after your surgery, you can expect the area – including your lips, cheeks, and tongue – to feel numb. This usually lasts a few hours, and until the numbness wears off, it’s important to avoid drinking anything extremely hot, or eating anything chewy. You won’t be able to tell if you’re burning yourself or catching your tongue or cheek in your teeth. To stop the bleeding after your surgery, you can bite very gently on dampened gauze until the bleeding stops. Light bleeding is normal for the first 12-24 hours following your surgery. After the numbness wears off, you can expect some pain. This can be managed by taking medications as instructed by the dentist. To reduce swelling and pain, you can ice your cheek outside of the area of surgery for the first 24 hours. After the first 24 hours, you can also apply damp heat, such as a hot towel. Following oral surgery, it is especially important to maintain good oral health. Because of your surgical wounds, your dentist will have instructions on how to care for your mouth during each stage of recovery. In general, for the rest of the day of your surgery, you should not rinse your mouth. This can dislodge the blood clots that will cause your gums to heal. Dislodged blood clots can result in dry socket, a condition where the tooth nerve is exposed and is very painful.

What can you eat?

While your mouth is healing, you need to be careful about what you eat. Particularly hot foods shortly after surgery (within the first 24 hours) can cause the forming blood clots to dislodge. If you are drinking soups (which can be good, as a meat broth is a good liquid source of protein and nutrients), you should be careful of the temperature. You should be particularly careful to avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods. The table below lists some foods that are recommended and some that should be avoided:

Recommended Foods	Foods to avoid
Meat broth or light soups (source of protein)	Hard candy, chips & popcorn
Soft cooked eggs (high in protein)	Orange juice (the acidity can irritate the site)
Yogurt (rich in probiotics)	Tomatoes and tomato juice (acidity)
Avocado (has healthy fats)	Seedy fruits, such as strawberries
Cottage cheese (high in calcium)	Thick meats
Smoothies	Spicy/sharp foods (will irritate open wounds)

To know what to expect in an oral surgery, be sure to communicate openly with your dentist. Make sure you’re aware of all of your options, risks, and what to expect on the road to recovery. At Sapphire Denture, Dr. Najar is skilled in all aspects of oral surgery, and puts time and effort into making sure each of his patients is comfortable and cared for.

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How do I clean my dentures?

Sapphire Denture — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 22:18:54 +0000

Why is it important to clean your dentures?

In your mouth, the cleanliness of your dentures plays just as big of a role as the cleanliness of your natural teeth. Denture care is important – and not just to prevent your dentures from breaking or warping. Just like the cleanliness of your natural teeth affects your oral health, the cleanliness of your dentures will do the same. Dentures are covered in bacteria from your mouth and the foods you eat. If dentures aren’t cleaned properly, they become incubators for bacteria that will degrade the condition of your dentures, and deteriorate your oral health. Lack of denture hygiene can result in bacterial and fungal infections, and gum diseases.

Your dentures should be cleaned every day.

To prevent bacteria from festering in your mouth, your dentures should be taken out every night and left to soak in a glass of water. For your gums, this is a break from being covered up by an unbreathable material, so they can get air and relax throughout the night. For your dentures, soaking in water prevents them from shrinking and warping – the “gums” of your dentures are made out of a type of acrylic, which is slightly water-absorbent. This means that when the acrylic dries out, it shrinks, which can lead to warping and cracking. While dentures should be cleaned at least once a day, it is ideal to clean them after each meal.

It’s important to use the right tools to clean your dentures.

Traditional toothpastes that you would use on your natural teeth will be too abrasive for your denture teeth. Natural teeth have a strong enamel outer layer – enamel is the hardest tissue in the human body. Denture teeth are made out of synthetic materials. This means that, while they are strong, they are not as resilient as your natural teeth. The ingredients in regular toothpaste include a gritty abrasive. This helps to scrub grime off of natural teeth, but can scratch dentures microscopically. However, there is a kind of toothpaste which is formulated specifically for dentures (usually available at convenience stores). It is used just like regular toothpaste, by gently scrubbing it on with a soft-bristled denture brush, and then rinsing. Be careful to hold your denture over your sink or a soft towel while cleaning – dentures are designed to withstand the pressures of your mouth, but it’s important to avoid the risk of dropping and breaking them.

Use a specialized soft-bristle denture brush to clean dentures

Denture cleaning solutions are another method of cleaning dentures. Some denture cleaners come in a chalky tablet, powder, or sometimes a mild acid that dissolves in water. Polident and Efferdent are two popular denture cleanser brands, but a store-brand cleanser can be just as effective. Acidic cleaners require particular care – some of them can also cause discoloration to the artificial gum base or deteriorate metal framework in your denture. Certain cleaning agents should be used sparingly, and alternated with regular cleaners. Be sure to ask your dentist or prosthodontist about the best products to use for the cleanest results. At Sapphire Denture, our denturist Jin You is an expert on the best tools, products, and methods to keep your dentures clean.

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