Dentures replace missing teeth that can be removed and put back into your mouth. Dentures begin to get used to it and never feel the same as someone’s natural teeth, and nowadays are natural looking and more comfortable than ever.
The two basic types of dentures are full and partial. Your dentist can help you to choose the most suitable denture depends on whether part or all of your teeth will be replaced and the cost involved.
How do Dentures Work?
In full dentures, a flesh-colored acrylic base fits over your gums. The base of the upper denture covers the mount (the roof of your mouth), while the lower denture is horseshoe-shaped to accommodate the tongue of the denture. Dentures are specially produced in the dental laboratory from oral impressions. There are three types of dentures described below. Your dentist will determine which of these three types of dentures is best for you.
Conventional Full Denture
Once the remaining teeth are removed and the tissues are healed, a conventional full denture is placed in your mouth. The healing may take several months, meanwhile you remain toothless.
Immediate Full Denture
A full denture is placed immediately after the remaining teeth are removed. (Measurements are taken by your dentist at the previous visit, and your jaw is modeled). Immediate dentures should be released a few months after installation, while offering the advantage of never having to be without your teeth. This is because the bone supporting the teeth reshapes as it heals, causing the denture to loosen.
Partial Denture
The partial denture stands on a metal framework which attaches to your natural teeth. Sometimes, the crowns placed on some of your natural teeth serve as anchors for the denture. A removable alternative is offered to the bridges by partial dentures.
How Long Before I Get Used to My Dentures?
The new dentures can be strange or disturbing for the first few weeks or even months. Eating and speaking with dentures may require some practice. A large or loose feeling is not uncommon, when the cheek and tongue muscles learn to hold your dentures in place. Excessive saliva, a feeling that the tongue does not have enough room, and minor irritation or pain are also normal. If you experience irritation, consult your dentist.
How Long do Dentures Last?
For a period of time, your denture needs to be reinstalled, remade or rebased for normal wear. Rebasing is to make a new base while holding existing denture teeth. Also, depending on your aging, your mouth naturally changes. As a result of these changes, your dentures loosen, chewing becomes difficult, and your gums become irritated. You should see your annual dentist for at least one checkup.
There are some tips for caring for your dentures below.
- Stand on a folded towel or water basin while holding your dentures. Because dentures are delicate, there is a possibility of breakage when dropped.
- Dentures should not be allowed to dry out. When not worn., it should be placed in denture cleaner solution or plain water. Hot water should never be used as this may cause them to warp.
- Brushing your dentures regularly cleans food deposits and plaques and prevents them from staining. You can use an ultrasonic cleaner to care for your dentures, but this does not replace daily brushing.
- Every morning, your gums, tongue and palate should be brushed with a soft bristle brush before inserting your dentures. Thus, circulation in your tissues is stimulated and helps to remove the plaque.
- Consult your dentist in case your dentures are broken, chipped, cracked, or loose. Do not try to adjust them yourself – otherwise they may be damaged beyond repair.