Dentures: All You Need To Be Aware Of

Whether you are thinking about getting dentures, already have them, or know somebody using dentures, – you might likely have a few inquiries concerning them. The following information will explain what dentures are, how to take care of them, and how they can enhance oral health. We hope to assist you in finding the answers to all your denture concerns and determine, if necessary, whether dentures would suit you.

Dentures – What are they?

To replace missing or removed natural teeth, your dentist will craft dentures, which are artificial teeth and gums shaped to fit your mouth. Dentures can either be full or partial, meaning they can replace all teeth on the top or bottom gum line or only a few missing. Whatever type of dentures you require will be made specifically for your mouth and aesthetically similar to your natural teeth.

Dentures – What are they made of?

Modern dentures are typically made of a hard resin as opposed to the porcelain or plastic used in the past for the artificial teeth that make up dentures. Denture teeth are made of more brittle materials than natural teeth and are more likely to chip or crack if dropped or treated roughly in any other way. Every five years, a new set of dentures must be worn because this material deteriorates considerably faster than real teeth.

A comparable resin to that used for the teeth, or a more flexible polymer material that fits tightly on the natural gum line, is frequently used to create the supporting framework of dentures, which holds the fake teeth in place and mimics the natural gum line.

Dentures – Why do you need to wear them?

Dentures not only make a smile with several missing teeth look better, but they help maintain the integrity of the mouth’s structure by supporting the tissues around the cheeks and lips. Additionally, chewing-intensive foods can be consumed with dentures, allowing you to maintain your diet and get the nutrition you need. Lastly, dentures are a viable solution to replace teeth causing serious pain and oral health issues, such as those with rotted roots or severe damage. When dentures are fitted, problematic teeth are removed and replaced with a durable and attractive substitute.

Partial Dentures

When one or more teeth are missing, or the neighboring natural teeth are too weak to support dental bridges, partial dentures are frequently utilized instead of other tooth replacement options.

The partial dentures are adapted to the portion of the gum line they rest on and secured to neighboring healthy teeth to prevent dislocation. However, they are not firmly secured and can be removed as necessary for cleaning or sleeping.

Full Dentures

Full dentures, also called complete dentures, are prosthetics that completely replace your natural teeth. They are held in place by suction and/or an oral glue and can be customized to fit your top or bottom gum line. They can be removed with ease, just like partial dentures.

Immediate Dentures and Overdentures

Numerous alternative varieties of full and partial dentures differ from standard permanent dentures, including instant dentures. These dentures are worn immediately following tooth extraction and during the healing phase, lasting up to six months. They are made before the teeth are replaced with dentures are removed. Compared to permanent dentures, these can be adjusted more easily to account for changes in the mouth as the gums and jaw enlarge during the healing process. When your mouth is healed and prepared for permanent dentures, the temporary dentures will be discarded.

If standard dentures are too unpleasant to wear or you still have a few natural teeth, overdentures are an option. If there are no natural teeth to fit over, overdentures are fitted over the roots of those teeth and either rest on them or dental implants. This kind of denture is more pleasant for some people and is also simple to remove.

Implant-supported Dentures

Dental implants secure these dentures, as the name suggests. A dental implant is a permanent fixture anchored to the jawbone and can replace any number of teeth. They are made up of the implant itself, a metal post (typically titanium), and an individualized crown that mimics a real tooth.

Implant-supported dentures have many different ways to attach but should be cared for and treated like traditional dentures. Having them done on the lower jaw is more common since the upper has fewer problems with fitting securely, but plenty of people have implants on both.

Dentures – How to clean them

All dentures, regardless of the type, need to be cleaned daily, just like natural teeth. Dentures may be built of artificial teeth, but bacteria, plaque, and tartar can still accumulate on them and damage neighboring teeth and gums.

Take your dentures out of your mouth and wash them thoroughly to remove any food particles between your teeth, along the gum line, or beneath the appliance. Then, brush the dentures all over using a soft toothbrush or denture brush and a light soap or denture cleanser. Avoid using other cleaners, ordinary toothpaste, and electric toothbrushes to avoid damaging and wearing away denture materials. Make sure to thoroughly rinse them after cleaning.

Be sure to brush your gums and natural teeth with a very soft, wet toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste, if necessary, while your dentures are out of your mouth. If your toothbrush is too abrasive, gently massage your gums by wrapping your finger in a wet, soft washcloth and rubbing all areas.

How to preserve your dentures

Always remove your dentures before going to bed to prevent damage, and dislodging, and allow your gums a chance to unwind. Fully submerge your dentures in warm water to prevent them from drying out and deforming. If your dentures have metal parts, you should avoid using a denture-soaking solution as it will tarnish the metal.

Need more clarification?

Talk to your dentist at your next scheduled dental exam to determine the best course of action if you’re still unsure whether dentures are the appropriate choice or have any other questions or concerns. Check out Primecare Family Dental if you’re seeking a dentist who specializes in dentures and can best meet your unique needs.

Additionally, keep in mind that anyone could require dentures. The idea that mouth prosthetics are only for seniors is no longer true; they may be needed by hockey players, accident victims, or those with genetic problems. No matter how old you are, don’t be afraid to ask if you or someone you know could need them.