What are dentures?
Dentures are removable appliances designed 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 be utilized to replace either a few or all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaws. In contrast to fixed options such as bridgework and dental implants, dentures offer the advantage of being removable for easy cleaning and maintaining optimal oral health. Additionally, they can be taken out during sleep.
Types of Dentures
Removable dentures come in two main types: full dentures and partial dentures. The optimal choice for your smile depends on the number of remaining natural teeth in your mouth and their overall health. If you retain some strong natural teeth, a partial denture can offer an effective solution. On the other hand, if all your upper or lower teeth are missing or require extraction, a complete denture may be the most suitable option for you.
Full Dentures
Full dentures, alternatively known as complete dentures, offer a viable option for replacing either the upper teeth, lower teeth, or both. It's crucial to recognize that dental treatments are not one-size-fits-all, and the design, creation, and placement of full dentures are tailored to the unique requirements of each individual patient.Conventional Full Denture
Following the extraction of all remaining teeth and adequate healing of the surrounding tissues, the specific denture is crafted and inserted. Creating a full denture after complete healing ensures an accurate and comfortable fit.Immediate Denture
An immediate denture allows patients to have teeth right after extraction without waiting for complete healing. While this offers the advantage of not being toothless, it may need adjustments and a reline as the tissues heal. In certain cases, a conventional denture may be necessary for the best comfort and fit.Overdenture
An overdenture is a complete denture that is made more stable and supported by special attachments. These attachments are either secured to the remaining natural teeth or to specialized dental implants.Implant-Supported Dentures
This type of denture is called an implant-supported denture because it connects to a specific number of implants strategically placed in the upper or lower jaw. These implants act as small surgical posts, offering precise attachment points for the denture and greatly enhancing stability and retention.Partial Dentures
When some sturdy teeth remain, partial dentures provide an effective solution for replacing missing teeth. These dentures typically achieve retention and stability through clasps or precision attachments on adjacent teeth to the edentulous areas (the spaces formerly occupied by the missing teeth).
Removable partial dentures fill the void left by individual missing teeth and multiple ones, restoring the look and function of a complete smile. Beyond filling the gaps, they stabilize the dentition and bite, preventing unwanted drifting of the remaining natural teeth.
Similar to full dentures, the design and fabrication of partial dentures vary based on a patient’s specific needs. With advancements in dental materials and technology, wearers now have more options. The supportive framework of a partial denture can be crafted from various materials, such as cast metal, flexible resins, and hybrid materials.
At the office of Lakeview Family Dentistry, we are committed to fostering healthy and beautiful smiles. As your trusted partner in care, you can rely on our office to design and fabricate a denture that not only looks good and fits comfortably but also serves you well for years to come.
What To Expect When You Receive Your New Denture
At Lakeview Family Dentistry, our foremost commitment is to prioritize the care and comfort of our patients. We are dedicated to fostering optimal oral health and ensuring our patients remain well-informed throughout their dental journey.
Adjusting to wearing a new denture
Getting used to wearing a new denture, especially a full denture, can take a little time. It’s not unusual to need some minor adjustments as you begin to speak, chew, and function with your new teeth. It can take a few adjustments to fit completely and feel comfortable. If you have a sore spot, try to wear the denture at least the day before your adjustment visit. In this way, we can see exactly where we need to relieve the area causing your irritation.More saliva than usual
Your mouth may produce more saliva as a natural response to new dentures. However, there is no need to worry as this is only a temporary reaction. Eventually, the flow of saliva will gradually return to a normal level.Speaking with ease
Speaking clearly with new dentures may initially be difficult, but this sensation will fade within a few days. It is crucial to continue talking as you normally would to help yourself adjust to your new teeth. To facilitate this process, you can practice reading aloud from printed materials or a computer.Getting used to eating with a denture
If you are new to wearing dentures, it may take some time to adjust to eating with them. Adjusting to eating with a full denture can be more difficult than with a partial denture. It is recommended to start with soft foods and avoid chewing on only one side. Your tongue, lips, cheeks, and soft tissues will eventually adapt to chewing with your denture, making eating easier for you.Taking care of your dentures
Here are some tips for maintaining clean and healthy dentures:
1. After eating, make sure to rinse your dentures and brush them daily. This will prevent stains and bacteria from building up on your new set of teeth. It's best to use a brush specifically designed for dentures. Additionally, remember to soak your dentures in water when you're not wearing them and at least once a week in a recommended denture cleaner.
2. Don't forget to brush any remaining teeth and your gums to keep them clean and maintain healthy and firm tissues. If you wear an upper denture, it's important to rinse and gently clean the roof of your mouth as well.
3. Take out your dentures before going to bed. This practice allows your gums and jawbone to rest, reducing the risk of irritation, infection, and bone shrinkage (resorption).
Added stability
In certain situations, full dentures may require extra retention methods due to the condition of the underlying tissues and other factors. Although denture adhesive is usually enough, implant-supported or attachment-clipped full dentures provide enhanced stability and retention.Follow-up care
Regular checkups and care are essential for maintaining oral health and overall well-being. During these visits, we not only examine the fit and condition of your dentures but also conduct a thorough examination to evaluate the condition of any remaining teeth and assess the health of all the soft and hard tissues in and around your mouth.Relines
Over time, the tissues that support the denture can undergo changes. These changes can cause the denture to become less comfortable and stable as the shape and contours of the tissues shrink or remodel. In such cases, a reline procedure may be suggested to address these issues.At Lakeview Family Dentistry, we are committed to delivering top-notch care. Should you have any further inquiries or worries regarding your new dentures, please don't hesitate to reach out to our office.