What are dentures?
Dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and restore the functionality and aesthetics of a person’s smile. They are custom-made to fit the unique contours of an individual’s mouth, providing a natural appearance while also allowing for improved chewing and speaking abilities.
What are dentures made out of?
Dentures are removable false teeth made of acrylic (plastic), nylon or metal. They fit snugly over the gums to replace missing teeth and eliminate potential problems caused by gaps.
Why wear dentures?
Wearing dentures can be a transformative experience for individuals who have lost their natural teeth due to various reasons such as decay, gum disease, trauma, or age-related factors.
One significant advantage of dentures is the restoration of oral function. They enable individuals to eat a diverse range of foods that may have been challenging to consume without teeth. This enhancement not only improves nutrition but also contributes to overall health.
In addition to functional benefits, dentures play a crucial role in boosting self-esteem and confidence. Many people find that their appearance changes positively after receiving dentures , leading to increased social interactions and improved quality of life. Dentures can help restore facial structure by preventing the sunken appearance that often accompanies tooth loss, thus enhancing one’s overall aesthetic appeal.
Partial dentures
Partial dentures are a type of dental prosthetic designed to replace missing teeth while preserving the remaining natural teeth. They play a crucial role in restoring function, aesthetics, and overall oral health for individuals who have lost some but not all of their teeth.
Partial dentures consist of a framework that holds one or more artificial teeth, which are strategically placed to fill gaps in the dental arch. This structure is typically crafted from lightweight materials such as acrylic or metal, ensuring durability and comfort during use. The framework is designed to clasp onto existing teeth, providing stability and preventing movement while eating or speaking.
Full dentures
Full dentures, also known as complete dentures, are prosthetic devices designed to replace all the natural teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, or both. They serve several essential functions for individuals who have lost their teeth due to decay, gum disease, injury, or other health issues. Understanding how full dentures work involves looking at their components, benefits, fitting process, and maintenance.
Immediate dentures and overdentures
Two notable types of dentures are immediate dentures and overdentures. Understanding how each type works can help individuals make informed decisions about their dental health.
Immediate dentures are installed right after the removal of natural teeth, allowing for a seamless transition. This type offers the benefit of not having to go without teeth during the healing process. They are pre-fabricated based on measurements taken before tooth extraction, which helps maintain facial aesthetics while tissues recover. Although immediate dentures require adjustments as the gums heal and reshape, they provide comfort and confidence during the initial recovery period.
On the other hand, overdentures are designed to fit over remaining natural teeth or dental implants. This type of denture offers the advantage of greater stability and retention compared to traditional dentures, as they are anchored by the underlying teeth or implants. Overdentures can help preserve jawbone health by stimulating bone growth, which is particularly important for individuals with significant tooth loss.
Implant-supported dentures
Implant-supported dentures are a type of dental prosthetic designed to replace missing teeth while providing a more stable and secure fit compared to traditional dentures. These dentures utilize dental implants, which are small titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone, to anchor the denture in place. This innovative approach addresses many of the common challenges associated with conventional removable dentures, offering patients several benefits.
Preserving your dentures
Preserving your dentures is essential for maintaining their functionality, comfort, and appearance over time. Proper care not only extends the life of the dentures but also contributes to your oral health.
To ensure longevity, regular cleaning of dentures is paramount. Rinse them after eating to remove food particles and prevent staining. Use a soft-bristle brush specifically designed for dentures, along with a mild cleanser formulated for dental prosthetics. Avoid standard toothpaste, as it may contain abrasives that can scratch the surface.
Another important aspect involves soaking dentures overnight. Placing them in a denture-cleaning solution or plain water helps keep them moist and prevents warping. It’s crucial to avoid using hot water, as it can distort the shape of the dentures.
When handling your dentures, always do so over a soft surface or a towel to prevent damage in case they slip from your hands. If they do break or chip, consult your dentist for repairs rather than attempting to fix them yourself. This ensures that any repairs maintain the integrity and fit of the dentures.
Even if you are wearing dentures, regular dental visits are essential. Your dentist can monitor your oral health, assess the fit of your dentures, and make necessary adjustments. Over time, changes in your jawbone and gums may affect how well your dentures fit, so periodic evaluations are important to ensure comfort and functionality.
