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Chatham, NJ 07928
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Keeping Our Patients Safe

Keeping Our Patients Safe

Dear Friends:
I am excited to announce that we are accepting new patients again. To insure that our patients and staff stay safe myself and the full staff have received the Covid-19 vaccination . We would like to ease your concerns about coming to the office.

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© All photographs on this site are of Dr. Allyson K. hurley's patients and represent her work and her photography.

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Floating dentures are annoying. When dentures float, lift, or shift, it’s always at a bad time. That’s because most people who wear dentures mainly use them during social situations—in public, during dinner with friends, or for other times when they are not at home and around other people.

But why do dentures float, and what can be done about it?

Three Reasons Dentures Float

  1. Poor fit – Dentures should be well designed to provide the best fit possible. This requires accurate impressions of your mouth, high-quality denture material, and proper lining. If any of these details are overlooked, your dentures can fit poorly and are more likely to float around in your mouth.
  2. Old dentures – How old are your dentures? Depending on the quality of your dentures, they should at least last five years. But if your dentures haven’t been maintained or regularly relined, with time they will loosen. If you’ve had your dentures for years and years, it’s probably time for a new set.
  3. Bone shrinkage – When all of your teeth are missing, your jawbone starts to shrink. That’s because tooth roots stimulate bone and keep it intact. Over the years, your bone will progressively shrink. A jawbone that is smaller than when you first received dentures will cause the dentures to slip around in your mouth.

What’s the Solution to Floating Dentures?

Dental implants prevent dentures from floating

In short, dental implants will stop the floating. There are several reasons that implants are the solution.

  • Surgically implanted – Dental implants are artificial roots, usually made of titanium. If you have metal allergies or sensitivities, you can find an implant dentist who uses zirconia implants. The fixtures are surgically placed in your jawbone. Three to four months after surgery, your jawbone and implants will fuse together, providing a solid anchor for your dentures.
  • Denture base is made for implants – The base of dentures can be made to snap on or screw onto dental implants. Your dentures will be secure, and it will be impossible for them to float, completely lift up, or fall out of your mouth.
  • Jawbone stimulation – Dental implants act like tooth roots and stimulate your jawbone. In the areas of the implants, jawbone shrinkage will stop. Although as few as two implants can be used, more implants will stimulate a wider area of the bone. Adequate jawbone density ensures your facial muscles are properly supported and helps prevent facial sagging.

Successful implant placement depends on the skill of the dentist or specialist, the quality of fixtures used, and your diligent cooperation during the healing phase. If you’ve experienced significant bone shrinkage, you’ll also need bone grafting to support the implants.

Before choosing an implant dentist to stabilize your floating dentures, check his or her training, experiencing, and credentials. Look for an accredited cosmetic dentist to provide natural-looking dentures that will be secured to the implants.

This post is sponsored by Chatham, NJ dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley. Dr. Hurley has repeatedly been voted a top NJ dentist by NJ Monthly Magazine.

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I have advanced gum disease and I need surgery. There are 5 to 7mm pockets around my teeth that need to be cleaned out. The out of pocket cost for me is about $1350 for the deep cleaning and approximately $4800 for the surgery. I know that there is no guarantee that the surgery will stop the disease. I am thinking about getting all of my teeth pulled and finding a cosmetic dentist to do dentures for me. I’m not crazy about this idea, because I am only 49 yrs old, but it might be better for me in the long run. Any comments you have on my situation are appreciated. Thanks. Don

Don,

We understand the frustration that can result from having advanced gum disease and multiple problems with your teeth. Before you make a decision, there are two questions to consider:

Are Dentures Necessary?

Although it might seem that dentures are the best solution, they might not be necessary. Under normal circumstances, gum and bone have a snug fit around your teeth. Periodontal (gum) disease destroys gum tissue and bone, and the pockets around the teeth deepen. Normally, the pockets measure 1mm to 3mm. But periodontal disease causes the pockets to get deeper with time and it makes it easier for bacteria to grow.

During the surgery, the gums are cut and folded back so that the bacteria can be cleaned out, and the tissue can be secured into place. This will help the gum tissue grow back onto the bone, without pockets.

In your case, the five to seven-millimeter pockets are considerate moderate periodontal disease, and it’s very treatable. In addition to surgery, you must be diligent about daily oral hygiene and receiving dental cleanings every three months. If you have concerns about the cost of the periodontal surgery and whether or not it will be effective, you can consider getting a second opinion.

The cost of the surgery is comparable to having all of your teeth removed and replaced with dentures. Although dentures can replace all of your teeth, keeping your natural teeth, whenever possible, is the healthiest option.

What Can You Expect with Dentures?

Of course, having dentures is better than not having any teeth at all. But there are several considerations that can help you understand why keeping your natural teeth might be the best option.

  • Dentures can rub on your gums and irritate them or cause sores.
  • When all of your teeth are missing, it’s a signal to the body that the jawbone is no longer needed to support the teeth. The body resorbs the jawbone, and in time, it becomes difficult to keep the lower denture in your mouth. Also, jawbone shrinkage can lead to facial collapse.
  • Chewing efficiency is also reduced with dentures.

If you really want dentures, or if you find that you need them, they can be supported with as few as two dental implants. The implants prevent the dentures from slipping around in your mouth, and they help prevent jawbone shrinkage and facial collapse.

This post is sponsored by top NJ dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley.

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I got new dentures in November and regularly lift. The top dentures fit well, but the bottom ones have been loose since the day I got them. They pop up when I eat, smile or laugh. So in other words, they are lifting up off of my ridge more than they are in place. I’ve been to the dentist several times about this. He has “adjusted” them, “relined” them, and asked me if I somehow distorted the shape of my dentures. This is ridiculous. Last week when I was in the office, he told me that some people have these problems when they get dentures and I probably need dental implants. I can’t even eat soft foods without the dentures lifting. Is he just trying to make more money off of me by suggesting dental implants? Thanks, Marge

Marge – It is not normal for new dentures to regularly lift. When they are well made, they look natural and fit well. If they regularly lift, there are several possible causes.

What Causes Dentures to Lift?

  • Construction and Materials – A low-quality, or budget, prosthesis just isn’t made to last. You can quickly begin to experience problems with the way it looks, feels, and fits.
  • Improper fit – Before dentures are made, precise impressions of your mouth must be taken to ensure a good fit. If the base of your prosthesis isn’t made well, it won’t fit properly. It may need to be relined or completely remade.
  • Jawbone shrinkage – When your teeth are missing, your jawbone shrinks. If it’s been years since you’ve had your natural teeth, excessive bone shrinkage will make it difficult—if not impossible—to secure a denture.

A Better Fit with Bone Grafting and Dental Implants

Snap-on dentures

If your jawbone is shrinking, it can be built up with bone grafting. Bone grafting will help your dentures fit better. But you’ll get the best results by having your them stabilized with dental implants.

Implants are surgically placed in your jawbone, and your prosthesis is secured to them. Snap-on dentures require two implants to provide stability. There are other types of implant overdentures that provide added stability.

Your dentures will fit better and feel more like your natural teeth. You won’t have to worry about them slipping around or lifting.

We recommend that you get a second opinion to have your prosthesis examined to ensure it’s well made. If you’re experiencing bone shrinkage, dental implants might be the solution to stabilize your dentures.

This post is sponsored by Chatham, NJ accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley.

 

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How do I get nail polish off my dentures? I’m embarrassed to ask. I should have placed my dentures in their container, but I was multi-tasking while trying to get ready for a 25th anniversary party. I was polishing my nails, finishing the turkey I was asked to bring, and trying to get dressed. My dentures are so uncomfortable that I took them off and put them on the counter. Somehow nail polish must have splattered and I didn’t notice it. At the party, one of my friends thought I had lipstick on my teeth, so I just went along with that story. When I went into the bathroom and tried to rub off the “lipstick,” it wouldn’t budge. At that time, I thought it was strange that the stain didn’t match the color of lipstick I was wearing. Finally when I got home, I took a good look at the dentures, and seeing the nail polish on the counter, I realized what happened. So I’m asking your office about this because I’m too embarrassed to call my own dentist. I know that nail polish remover will get the polish of my dentures, but I’m afraid it’s going to dissolve my denture teeth and I’ll have an every greater problem. Will you please tell me how to get the nail polish off? Thanks so much. - Sheri

Sheri,

You were wise not to use nail polish remover on your dentures. Most polish removers contain acetone, which would dissolve or damage the acrylic in your dentures. Nor do you want to use any abrasive pastes on your dentures. It can scratch the teeth and attract stains.

What Can Be Done about Your Stained Dentures

Although the situation is embarrassing for you, you still need to see your dentist—or any dentist who is skilled in providing and repairing dentures. If a dentist isn’t able to remove the stains with tools in the office, your dentures can be sent to a lab. Depending on the extent of the stains, the affected denture teeth might need to be replaced.

Another thing to consider is how long you’ve had your dentures. If they are relatively new, it’s worth the effort to remove the stains or replace some of the denture teeth. If your dentures are old and wearing, it might be practical to receive new cosmetic dentures.

We suggest that you schedule an appointment with your dentist. It will be less expensive and time-consuming to see your current dentist who has your dental records and knows your dental history and the state of your oral health. He or she will let you know your options.

This post is sponsored by Chatham, NJ cosmetic dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley.

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I started wearing dentures when I was 32 years old. My teeth were so badly decayed that the dentist I had at the time just pulled them and gave me dentures. They have been good in the sense that I can eat and smile without being embarrassed. Now that I am 62 I want a better looking smile and I want to do something about the way my smile looks. I’m wondering if after 30 years of wearing dentures if it’s too late to get dental implants for my dentures. If I can’t get the implants what are my other options? Thanks Jody

Jody - Even if you receive implant-supported dentures, you will need a skilled cosmetic dentist to provide you with dentures that look completely natural. When dentures look fake and bulky, it’s due to the materials used and lack of artistic talent from the dentist. Many dentists only provide low-quality, economy dentures.

If you’ve been wearing dentures for 30 years, you probably have significant jawbone loss. Bone is resorbed by your body when all of your teeth are missing. Lack of jawbone structure to support your facial muscles can drastically change your appearance and your smile. Bone loss can make your face appear shriveled or sunken.

You might be a candidate for dental implants, but an examination and diagnostic studies are required to determine if you are a candidate. Bone grafting will likely be needed to provide support for the implants. After a healing period, the implants are surgically placed. Time is allowed for the bone to fuse with the dental implants, after which dentures can be secured to them. We recommend that you find a few cosmetic dentists who provide dental implants. Schedule a consultation with each of them to learn what each dentist does to ensure you receive beautiful cosmetic dentures and high-quality dental implants to support them.

This post is sponsored by Bedminster cosmetic dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley.

 

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Hi. I am looking for cheap dentures but not bottom of the barrel. I don’t want them to be so cheap that the keep falling out of my mouth or the teeth start falling off of them. How cheap is too cheap? I know you can’t tell me the exact cost, but a ballpark figure would help. Thanks. Gracie

Gracie – The average cost of dentures depends on where you live in the country and the dentist who provides them. Your city and state are not included in your inquiry, so we suggest that you call or visit the offices of three dentists in your area.

Tips when comparing the cost for dentures

  • As you compare and record the costs from each dentist, find out what is included in the prices you are quoted. Surgical costs for tooth extraction, sedation, lab fees, the type and quality of dentures, and other services factor into the total cost.
  • In order to receive quality dentures that last, consider looking for a competitive price from a highly skilled cosmetic dentist, and not insisting on a bargain.
  • Cosmetic dentures will give you a smile that reflects your personality and doesn’t look generic. Think about dentures as more than just teeth to chew your food. Denture teeth become your smile. If the denture teeth are pasty looking, bulky, or fake looking, they can embarrass you and affect your confidence or self-esteem.
  • Carefully choose the dentist from whom you receive dentures. A cosmetic dentist can produce natural-looking results. Compare cosmetic dentures with low-quality dentures and see the difference for yourself.

Ask for information on financing, payment plans, and other ways that each dentist makes high-quality, cosmetic dentures affordable for you.

This post is sponsored by Bedminster, NJ cosmetic dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley.

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My dentures have bothered me since I got them this February. I am almost sure that I am allergic to the acrylic. My dentist keeps making excuses or coming up with reasons that the dentures are bothering me and I am literally getting sick about this. When I first got the dentures, my mouth burned within five minutes of wearing them. My dentist’s explanation was that my gums were still healing and that in a month or two there wouldn’t be any problems. The problems didn’t go away. When I returned to the dentist he told me that my gums were irritated because I must not be wearing the dentures enough. I was wearing them every day for at least 8 to 10 hours. How much is enough? I want to switch to dental implants but I am not sure that I can afford them, if my insurance will help me with the cost because of the allergy, or if I just need to consider new dentures from another dentist. What are my options? Thanks. Peter.

Peter,

Although it’s rare to be allergic to dental acrylic, it is possible that you have an allergy or sensitivity to the material. At times, nickel in the metal base or an ingredient in the denture adhesive is causing the problem.,

If you use denture adhesive, try not to use it for a week. If the irritation improves, the adhesive might be the problem. Try other brands, one at a time, to see if they don’t irritate you and still help your dentures fit better.

If your denture is metal-free, or if you don’t have metal sensitivities or allergies, you, your dentist, and perhaps, your medical doctor can work to figure out what is causing the reaction. A new set of dentures from your dentist, or from a second-opinion dentist, might improve the situation. If you have an allergist, get a report of your sensitivities or allergies—or you might want to get tested for allergies.

Dental implants might be an option, but your insurance company isn’t likely to provide much in terms of benefits. If you learn that you are definitely allergic to your dentures, and if it can be proven, speak with your denture insurance company to find out if you can file an appeal for assistance with dental implants. Most insurance companies only provide benefits for the dental crown that is place on top of a dental implant.

We know this situation is frustrating, but if your dentist isn’t willing to get to the source of the problem, find a dentist who is willing to assist you.

This post is sponsored by Bedminister, NJ dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley.

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For the past 17 years since I gave birth to my teenage son I’ve struggled with an eating disorder. Thanks to an understanding psychiatrist and prescription medication I am finally managing it instead of letting it control me. Due to the disorder for years I have vomited every day throughout the day. The result is teeth that have deteriorated and are crumbling away. I now need dentures Just when I’m trying to get my self esteem back I am finding it difficult to smile, even though I am happier than ever now.

My teeth look horrible. I’ve lost 8 or 9 teeth already and my dentist says that it will be difficult or impossible to save about 9 more. I don’t think I’ll have any teeth left. Money is a problem. The bills from trying to recover from the disorder are stacked up. We have a young son at home that I must home school, so work is not much of an option for me. I am 42 years old now and am fighting depression with the thought of needing dentures. I think it is three times in the past two weeks that I heard conversations about false teeth. Better than no teeth at all but who really wants false teeth.

I have read enough to know that dental implants, not dentures, are the best way to replace my teeth but I could never afford them. Am I out of options? – Name withheld

Dear anonymous reader,

If you have a very limited budget, dentures may be your only option. The good news is that if you receive dentures, a cosmetic dentist can give you a smile with dentures that reflects your personality and that looks natural—instead of looking like false teeth as you mentioned.

If you have your natural lower teeth, it’s best for the dentist to save as many of them as possible. Keeping your lower teeth will help delay the jawbone shrinkage and facial collapse that occur when all of your teeth are missing, including if you have dentures.

An upper denture is kept in place by suction, so it is more stable than a lower denture. A lower denture can slip or fall out easier. Your lower natural teeth are likely to last longer if they are chewing against an upper denture.

A caring cosmetic dentist will discuss your options with you. Many cosmetic dentists offer a complimentary consultation. Meet with a few of them to find one that you’re comfortable with. You’ll find some comfort in knowing that you can get a natural-looking new smile, even if it is with dentures.

We suggest that you find two or three experienced cosmetic dentists and schedule a consultation with each of them. Ask questions about dentures and dental implants, and how treatment can be made affordable for you.

This post is sponsored by Bedminster, NJ cosmetic dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley. Bedminster is located in Somerset County, North Jersey.

 

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That’s what I heard. Is it true that if I change my dentures more often my face won’t sag? If so is there something like a frequent denture buyers’ plan I can get on so that the frequent change will be more affordable for me? It’s my 15th year of wearing dentures and I have to do something before it’s too late. I am only 62 yrs old and I feel like the sagging will make me look 10 yrs older. Are certain types of dentures better than others to control the sagging a bit? Thanks. Cynthia.

Cynthia – Facial sagging, or facial collapse, occurs when all of your teeth are missing. Missing teeth cause the jawbone to resorb, and the minerals from it are used elsewhere in the body. This process will continue to occur regardless of how frequently complete removable dentures are changed.

What will prevent facial sagging with dentures is to support the dentures with dental implants. As few as two dental implants can be used to support the dentures, but if it’s within your budget to receive more, that’s even better.

When dental implants are surgically implanted in your jawbone, the body allows the bone to remain there, and it won’t be resorbed. Your bone structure will continue to support your facial muscles and prevent sagging.

Before you receive a new set of dentures, speak with a skilled cosmetic dentist about getting natural-looking dentures that are supported with implants. Depending on the condition of your current dentures, it may be possible to adjust them to accommodate implants.

This post is sponsored by Bedminster, NJ cosmetic dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley.