Dentures

Dentures are prosthetic dental appliances that can replace missing teeth. Because they are removable, they can be cleaned more easily than alternative appliances, like implants and bridgework. In addition, dentures, usually made from plastic or porcelain, tend to be less expensive than other methods of tooth replacement.

Depending on your need, your doctor may recommend full or partial dentures. Full dentures replace all of the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. Partial dentures replace sections of missing teeth. In both cases, dentures can help you speak and eat in a normal manner because they provide a stabilizing element to your jaw in addition to serving as tools for chewing and grinding food. Good dentures can also be attractive, and they can make you feel more confident and comfortable.

There are several denture variations. Conventional dentures are usually put into place a few months after your teeth have been removed. This gives your gums time to heal. Immediate dentures can be put into place from the moment your teeth are removed. For these, your doctor will have consulted with you and will have taken measurements so that the dentures are ready when your teeth are removed. Cosmetic dentures are designed to look and feel better because they are customized to your mouth’s structure and design.

Many patients report an initial awkwardness or discomfort as they adjust to their dentures. Most doctors recommend wearing your dentures as much as possible during the healing stage. Dentures can serve as bandages to the healing gums and as you wear them, you will grow accustomed to speaking and eating with them. At first, you should eat softer foods and avoid sticky or hard foods, but as you become more accustomed to your dentures you will be able to revert to your ordinary dietary habits.

For some patients, alternatives such as “mini-implant systems” like the Sendax MDI system can provide greater stability and comfort, especially for patients who lack bone mass for conventional implants or for patients unable to have conventional surgery. These implants serve as the root of a tooth would, and they can help hold your dentures in place. This involves a very minor procedure, and in most cases patients are able to eat and talk normally just a few hours after the process.

Like real teeth, dentures need to be cared for. You should brush your dentures with special denture cleaners and brushes, and then rinse them in a denture-cleaning solution. The Access Oral Care Toothbrush is ideally designed to clean implant fixtures. At night, you should place your dentures in a cleaning solution to keep them from drying out while your gums breathe and rest. Every five years, you should have your dentist adjust your braces for comfort and effectiveness. In the meantime, should your dentures be damaged, your dentist can adjust them for you. To avoid potential damage, you should always keep your dentures in a safe place, away from children and animals. In addition, you should never boil your dentures. The plastic and metal components of the appliance could melt under intense heat.