Dentures
Dentures are removable artificial teeth that can come in two forms, partials or completes. As the names imply, partial dentures cover only a segment of missing teeth when there are still other natural teeth present in the mouth. Alternatively, complete dentures cover the entire mouth when natural teeth are not present in your mouth. When getting a set of dentures, your dentist will take measurements and molds of your teeth and gums to create a comfortable and efficient set of dentures.
Benefits of Dentures
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An alternative to missing teeth, dentures provide several benefits to patients with missing teeth.
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Dentures can increase your self-esteem.
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Improved your appearance and smile.
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Dentures support your facial muscles.
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Support from dentures can improve your speech.
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Dentures allow patients to eat food they wouldn't otherwise be able to eat without teeth.
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Today's dentures are designed to be functional and comfortable.
Overdentures
Sometimes some of your teeth can be saved to preserve your jawbone and provide stability and support for the denture. An overdenture fits over a small number of remaining natural teeth after they have been prepared by your dentist. Implants can serve the same function, too.
Denture care
New dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them. The dentures may feel loose while the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place. It is not unusual to experience minor irritation or soreness. You may find that saliva flow temporarily increases. As your mouth becomes accustomed to the dentures, these problems should go away. Follow-up appointments with the dentist are generally needed after a denture is inserted so the fit can be checked and adjusted. If any problem persists, particularly irritation or soreness, be sure to consult your dentist.
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Even if you wear full dentures, you still have to practice good dental hygiene. Brush your gums, tongue and roof of your mouth every morning with a soft-bristled brush before you insert your dentures to stimulate circulation in your tissues and help remove plaque.
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Like your teeth, your dentures should be brushed daily to remove food particles and plaque. Brushing also can help keep the teeth from staining
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Rinse your dentures before brushing to remove any loose food or debris.
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Use a soft bristle toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleanser to gently brush all the surfaces of the dentures so they don't get scratched.
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When brushing, clean your mouth thoroughly—including your gums, cheeks, roof of your mouth and tongue to remove any plaque. This can help reduce the risk of oral irritation and bad breath.
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When you’re not wearing your dentures, put them in a safe place covered in water to keep them from warping.
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Occasionally, denture wearers may use adhesives. Adhesives come in many forms: creams, powders, pads/wafers, strips or liquids. If you use one of these products, read the instructions, and use them exactly as directed.
