DENTURES & PARTIALS
Sometimes the best option for fixing a smile is going with dentures.
Commonly referred to a “false teeth,” dentures are replacements for missing teeth — replacements that can be taken out and put back into your mouth. Although they take some getting use to and will never feel like natural teeth, today’s dentures are natural looking and more comfortable than ever.
HERE ARE ANSWERS TO SOME COMMON QUESTIONS RELATED TO DENTURES:
1) What types of dentures are there?
There are two main types of dentures: full and partial. Our dentists will help you choose the type that’s best for you based on whether some or all of your teeth are going to be replaced and the cost involved.
Full Denture
Partial Denture
2) How do dentures work?
With full dentures, a flesh-colored acrylic base fits over your gums. The base of the upper denture covers the palate (the roof of your mouth), while that of the lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to accommodate your tongue.
Dentures are custom-made in a dental laboratory from impressions taken of your mouth. Your dentist will determine which of the three types of dentures is best for you: a Conventional Full Denture, an Immediate Full Denture or a Partial Denture.
3) What is a conventional full denture?
A conventional full denture is placed in your mouth after all remaining natural teeth are removed and tissues have healed. Healing may take several months, during which time you are without teeth.
4) What is an immediate full denture?
An immediate full denture is inserted immediately after the natural teeth are removed. (Your dentist takes measurements and makes models of your jaw during a prior visit.) While immediate dentures offer the benefit of never having to be without your teeth, they must be relined several months after being inserted because the bone supporting the teeth reshapes as it heals, causing the denture to become loose.
5) What is a partial denture?
A partial denture rests on a metal framework that attaches to your natural teeth. Sometimes crowns are placed on some of your natural teeth to serve as anchors for the dentures. Partial dentures offer a removable alternative to bridges.
6) How long before I get used to my dentures?
New dentures may feel awkward or uncomfortable for the first few weeks or even months. Common issues getting accustomed to dentures include:
– Eating and speaking with dentures might take a little practice.
– A bulky or loose feeling is not uncommon, while the muscles of your cheeks and tongue learn to hold your dentures in place.
– Excessive saliva flow.
– A feeling that the tongue does not have adequate room.
– Minor irritation or soreness. (If you experience irritation, contact us.)
7) How long do dentures last?
Over a period of time, your dentures will need to be relined, remade or rebased due to normal wear. Rebasing involves making a new base while keeping the existing denture teeth.
Also, as you age, your mouth naturally changes. These changes cause your dentures to loosen, making chewing difficult and irritating your gums. At a minimum, you should see your dentist annually for a check-up.
Today’s dentures are more natural-looking and comfortable than ever before.
DENTURE CARE TIPS
When handling your dentures, stand over a folded towel or basin of water. Dentures are delicate and may break if dropped.
Don’t let your dentures dry out. When you’re not wearing them, place them in a denture cleanser soaking solution or in plain water. Never use hot water, which can cause them to warp.
Brushing your dentures daily will remove food deposits and plaque, and help prevent them from becoming stained. An ultrasonic cleaner may be used to care for your dentures, but it does not replace a thorough daily brushing.
Brush your gums, tongue and palate every morning with a soft-bristled brush before you insert your dentures. This stimulates circulation in your tissues and helps remove plaque.
See us if your dentures break, chip, crack or become loose. Don’t be tempted to adjust them yourself for you risk damaging them beyond repair.
