What Are Dentures?
Dentures are custom fitted replacements for missing teeth. They are removable artificial teeth and gums that are designed to look and feel just like your natural teeth. With modern advancements in fabrication processes, today’s dentures are more natural looking and comfortable than ever.
Dentures can either be full (complete) or partial. Based on the number of teeth that need replacing on either your top or bottom gum line will determine which denture option is best suited for your particular case. Dentures can be made from a variety of different materials including: porcelain, resin, metal, acrylic, or nylon. The type of material used will depend on your budget and on the type of denture that you are getting.
Benefits Of Wearing Dentures
Most commonly people consider getting dentures when they lose several teeth and it begins to impact the overall appearance of their smile. Dentures provide a great option for those looking to return their beautiful full smile but also provide other benefits as well. The main list of benefits that dentures provide includes:
- Improve smile aesthetic
- Custom fitted for your mouth
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Can reduce oral health complications
- Preserve facial structure
- Increase biting force
- Allow you to eat the foods you enjoy
If you’re still on the fence, you can book a free consultation with our denturists so that they can provide you with additional information and answer all of your denture questions. Contact us today.
Types Of Dentures
Some dentures are designed to replace a few missing teeth, while others types can replace all of your teeth, and some are temporary solutions while others can be long-term. Common types of dentures include:
- Full (Complete) Dentures – for those who are missing all of their teeth
- Removable Partial Dentures – for patients who are missing some of their teeth and prefer a removal option
- Fixed Partial Dentures – for patients who are missing some of their teeth but prefer a non-removable option
- Implant Dentures – a removable option for those who need added retention due to bone loss
- Immediate Dentures – temporary dentures for same day denture installation
- Dental Implants – an anchor in your jawbone that can support one or more false teeth
The type of dentures that will be recommended for you will vary depending on your needs. If you’re missing a tooth or several teeth, dentures are an excellent option for keeping the structure of your smile, and increasing your confidence.
Proper Denture Care
At some point, your dentures will either need to be relined, rebased, or remade from every day wear and tear. If at any point your dentures feel loose or don’t fit properly, contact your denturist immediately to prevent additional complications. Poorly fitting dentures can lead to difficulties in speaking and eating, and can also result in painful mouth sores. To increase the lifespan of your dentures and to maintain great oral health, you will need a regular denture cleaning and care routine.
If you have removable dentures, make sure to remove them before sleeping and soaking them in water overnight. Removing your dentures overnight allows your gums to rest from the pressure exerted on them throughout the day. Just like you would brush your teeth, your dentures also need to be cleaned, however, you should avoid stiff-bristled brushes and harsh toothpastes. Consider buying a denture cleaning solution as well, but make sure to consult with your denturist for choosing the right product.