Dentures
What are Dentures?
Dentures are artificial teeth and gums that replace missing natural teeth. They’re designed to restore your smile, chewing ability, and speech. There are two main types:
- Complete Dentures: These replace all of your teeth on either your upper or lower jaw.
- Partial Dentures: These replace some of your teeth, leaving healthy teeth in place.
Types of Dentures
- Conventional Dentures: These are made after your teeth have been extracted and your gums have healed.
- Immediate Dentures: These are made in advance of your teeth being extracted and placed immediately afterward, providing temporary coverage.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: These are attached to dental implants, which are surgically placed into your jawbone. This provides a more secure fit and can help prevent bone loss.
How Dentures Are Made
- Impression: Your dentist will take an impression of your mouth to create a model.
- Design: The lab will create a custom denture based on the model.
- Fitting: Your dentist will fit the dentures to your mouth.
How do Dentures Work?
Dentures sit on your gums and are held in place by suction and sometimes by clasps or attachments. They can help you:
- Eat: You can chew most foods with dentures, although you may need to avoid very hard or sticky foods.
- Speak: Dentures can help you speak more clearly.
- Smile: Dentures can improve your appearance and self-confidence.
Benefits of Dentures
- Improved Appearance: Dentures can help restore your smile and confidence.
- Improved Function: Dentures can help you chew food more comfortably and speak more clearly.
- Improved Oral Health: Replacing missing teeth can help prevent other oral health problems.
Challenges of Dentures
- Adjustment Period: It may take time to adjust to wearing dentures.
- Limited Comfort: Some people may experience discomfort or soreness.
- Dietary Restrictions: You may need to avoid certain foods, such as hard, sticky, or chewy foods.
Caring for Your Dentures
Proper care is essential for the longevity and comfort of your dentures. Here are some tips:
- Clean them daily: Brush your dentures with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a denture cleanser.
- Soak them overnight: Soak your dentures in a denture cleaning solution overnight to help remove bacteria and stains.
- Handle them with care: Avoid dropping or hitting your dentures, as this can damage them.
See your dentist regularly: Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and adjustments to ensure your dentures fit properly and are in good condition.
Remember:
Dentures may take some time to get used to. You may experience discomfort, difficulty speaking, or changes in your bite. However, with proper care and adjustment, dentures can be a comfortable and effective solution for replacing missing teeth.
Would you like to know more about a specific type of denture or have other questions, or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us.