Dentures

Dentures

Dentures are a removable device that is used as an alternative to replace missing teeth. It helps provide proper mouth function like chewing, biting, and smiling. Though it resembles missing teeth, it may feel very uncomfortable when worn. Today, dentures are enhanced to make it look not only more natural looking but also more comfortable.

Dentures may be placed and taken out whenever you want which makes it convenient for people who aren’t comfortable wearing them always. Traditionally, it is made of two types of material which is porcelain and plastic but today, it can also be made out of hard resin. All of these materials are fragile and can be broken down easily if not taken care of properly.

Types of Dentures

Dentures are custom-made from the impressions of your mouth. It is made in a dental laboratory in which the dentist will determine what type will it be made. These types are:

• Conventional Full Denture: This type of denture is used and placed when all the remaining teeth on the mouth has been removed and its surrounding tissues are all healed. The healing process may take several months in which you have no teeth until it is fully recovered
• Immediate Full Denture: From the word itself which is Immediate, this type of denture is placed immediately after teeth have been removed. Though it can be worn after the procedure, an Immediate full denture must be relined after a few months due to the reshaping of bones when it heals, therefore, making it lose.
• Partial Denture: A partial denture consists of a metal framework which is attached to the natural teeth. It also provides a removable replacement for bridges.

The Procedure

The dentist will examine your mouth and discuss what kind and type of dentures will be perfect for your mouth. Once this is all determined and discussed the dentist will then begin with the procedure:

• The dentist will analyze and examine the jaw and mouth to know if there are any spaces in between or other complications in it.
• Next, a wax model will be prepared to determine its fit on the mouth.
• Once it is done, the final denture will now be made from the wax model of the patient’s mouth.
• The patient will be then asked to fit the dentures and examine if they are comfortable with the fitting. If not, the dentist will adjust it according to the patient’s preference.

Caring for Your Dentures

In order for your dentures to be clean and be durable., it is essential to know the proper way of caring for it. Here are some tips to show you how to maintain it properly.

• As dentures are delicate and may break easily, always have a folded towel in front of you when handling it. This is to cushion it when it accidentally falls.
• When it is not used, avoid letting the denture dry out by soaking them in a cleaning solution or plain water. Do not use warm or hot water as its shape can get warp.
• Clean your dentures every meal by removing it and gently brushing it just like your natural teeth.
• Brush your gums, tongue, and palate after every meal and before inserting the dentures. This helps improve circulation and removes plaque.
• Visit the dentist if the dentures have cracks or are loose to repair it immediately and prevent any further damage.