What are dentures?
Dentures are removable oral appliances crafted to comfortably fit on the gums, featuring artificial teeth that closely resemble natural ones and are supported by a base. A cost-effective solution for replacing missing teeth, dentures can effectively replace several or all of the teeth in either the upper or lower jaws. Unlike permanent alternatives such as bridgework and dental implants, dentures offer the advantage of being removable for ease of cleaning and maintaining optimal oral health. Additionally, they can be taken out during sleep for added convenience.
Types of Dentures
Removable dentures come in two main types: full dentures and partial dentures. The optimal choice for your smile is contingent on the number and health of your natural teeth. If you retain some sturdy natural teeth, a partial denture can offer an effective solution. On the other hand, if all your upper or lower teeth are either missing or require extraction, a complete denture may be the most suitable option for your needs.
Full Dentures
Full dentures, also known as complete dentures, offer a viable solution for replacing either the upper teeth, lower teeth, or both. It's crucial to recognize that dental treatments are not one-size-fits-all. The design, fabrication, and fitting of full dentures are tailored to meet the unique requirements of each individual patient.Conventional Full Denture
Following the extraction of all remaining teeth and adequate healing of the surrounding tissues, a specific denture is crafted and then placed. The construction of a full denture after complete healing ensures an accurate and comfortable fit.Immediate Denture
An immediate denture provides patients with teeth immediately after extraction, eliminating the need to wait for full healing. While this prevents the inconvenience of being toothless, adjustments and a reline may be required as the tissues heal. In certain situations, opting for a conventional denture might be necessary to achieve the utmost comfort and fit.Overdenture
An overdenture is a complete denture that gains increased stability and support through special attachments. These attachments are affixed either to the existing natural teeth or to specific dental implants.Implant-Supported Dentures
Referred to as an implant-supported denture, this denture type connects to a set number of strategically placed implants in either the upper or lower jaw. These implants serve as small surgical posts, providing precise attachment points for the denture and significantly improving stability and retention.Partial Dentures
In cases where some robust natural teeth remain, partial dentures provide an effective solution for replacing missing teeth. These partial dentures typically achieve secure retention and stability through clasps or precision attachments on adjacent teeth to the edentulous areas (the spaces once occupied by the missing teeth).
Removable partial dentures are designed to fill the void created by individual missing teeth and multiple ones, restoring both the appearance and function of a complete smile. Simultaneously addressing the gaps left by missing teeth, partial dentures stabilize the dentition and bite, preventing the undesirable shifting of remaining natural teeth.
Similar to full dentures, the design and fabrication of partial dentures vary according to each patient’s unique needs. With advancements in dental materials and technology, wearers of partial dentures now have an array of options. Today, a partial denture's supportive framework can be crafted from diverse materials, including cast metal, flexible resins, and hybrid materials.
At Lakeview Family Dentistry, we are committed to cultivating healthy and beautiful smiles. As your reliable partner in care, you can trust our office to create and fabricate a denture that not only looks appealing but also fits comfortably and serves you well for years to come.
What To Expect When You Receive Your New Denture
At Lakeview Family Dentistry, our topmost priority is the well-being and comfort of our patients. We are dedicated to fostering optimal oral health and ensuring that our patients are consistently well-informed throughout their dental journey.
Adjusting to wearing a new denture
Adapting to a new denture, particularly a full denture, may require a brief adjustment period. It's common to experience minor challenges as you start speaking, chewing, and functioning with your new teeth. Achieving a complete and comfortable fit may involve a few adjustments. If you notice any sore spots, we recommend wearing the denture at least a day before your scheduled adjustment visit. This way, we can precisely identify the areas causing irritation and make the necessary adjustments.More saliva than usual
The increased saliva production in response to new dentures is a natural and temporary occurrence. There's no cause for concern, as this heightened salivary response will gradually return to a normal level over time.Speaking with ease
Initially, achieving clear speech with new dentures might pose a challenge, but this sensation will diminish within a few days. It is important to maintain regular speech patterns to aid in adapting to your new teeth. To facilitate this adjustment, consider practicing reading aloud from printed materials or a computer.Getting used to eating with a denture
If you're new to wearing dentures, the adjustment to eating with them may take some time. Adapting to eating with a full denture can be more challenging than with a partial denture. To ease this transition, it's advisable to begin with soft foods and avoid chewing on only one side. Over time, your tongue, lips, cheeks, and soft tissues will gradually adapt to chewing with your denture, making the eating process more comfortable for you.Taking care of your dentures
Here are some tips for maintaining clean and healthy dentures:
1. Following meals, it's important to rinse your dentures and brush them daily to prevent the accumulation of stains and bacteria on your new set of teeth. Utilize a brush specifically designed for dentures for optimal cleaning. Additionally, remember to soak your dentures in water when not in use and, at least once a week, use a recommended denture cleaner for thorough maintenance.
2. Ensure to brush any remaining teeth and your gums regularly to keep them clean and maintain healthy, firm tissues. For individuals with an upper denture, it's crucial to rinse and gently clean the roof of your mouth as well.
3. Remove your dentures before bedtime. This practice allows your gums and jawbone to rest, minimizing the risk of irritation, infection, and bone shrinkage (resorption).
Added stability
In specific cases, the condition of the underlying tissues and other factors may necessitate additional retention methods for full dentures. While denture adhesive is typically sufficient, implant-supported or attachment-clipped full dentures offer heightened stability and improved retention.Follow-up care
Routine checkups and care play a crucial role in preserving oral health and overall well-being. These appointments involve not only assessing the fit and condition of your dentures but also conducting a comprehensive examination to evaluate the state of any remaining teeth and assess the health of both the soft and hard tissues in and around your mouth.Relines
Over the course of time, the supporting tissues for the denture may undergo changes, leading to a decrease in comfort and stability. This shift occurs as the shape and contours of the tissues shrink or remodel. In such instances, a reline procedure may be recommended to effectively address these issues.At Lakeview Family Dentistry, our commitment is to provide exceptional care. If you have any additional questions or concerns about your new dentures, please feel free to contact our office. We are here to assist you.