Dentures as an Option for Restoring Missing Teeth

Dentures are removable oral devices that are used to substitute missing teeth and surrounding tissues in the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. They are made from materials such as acrylic, resin, nylon, metal, or porcelain. There are two main types of dentures: complete and partial dentures. Today, we will discuss these types and answer some questions you may have about dentures.

Complete Dentures

These dentures consist of a plastic base that resembles gum tissue and ropes a full set of plastic or porcelain teeth. The traditional full denture stays in place by forming a seal with the gums. Alternatively, they can be secured to dental grafts surgically placed in the jawbone. However, this treatment option is more expensive than a conventional complete denture. Prices also differ in the countries you intend to get your dental implant; for example, in Turkey, prices are relatively cheaper than in other countries. Find out the cost of dental implants in Turkey on Dentakay blog.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures can have a plastic base or a metal framework to support the replacement teeth. They are held in the mouth using clasps and rest precisely fitted around the natural teeth. The traditional design for partial dentures involves a metal framework due to its rigidity and strength. Plastic partial dentures have traditionally been used as temporary replacements for missing teeth. This is because they allow the gums and bone to heal before obtaining a permanent healing solution.

How Dentures Are Installed?

The process commences by taking a series of imitations or molds of the oral tissues to support the denture. A dental laboratory then utilizes these impressions to create models of the patient’s mouth. The dentist and the laboratory technician collaboratively construct the dentures on these models. They do this while making necessary adjustments to ensure a proper fit and establish a correct bite. You will probably visit the dentist once weekly for approximately 4 to 5 weeks until the denture is fully fabricated. After the denture is delivered, you may need to return for occasional adjustments during the first month.

In some cases, an immediate denture can be created, allowing you to have an appliance to wear on the same day the teeth are removed. This type of denture is made prior to tooth extraction and is inserted immediately after the removal. Sometimes, the back teeth are extracted first while the front teeth remain until the denture is delivered. However, immediate dentures do not fit as closely to the bone and gum tissue as conventional dentures. This makes more adjustments necessary during the healing process. Immediate dentures are primarily used as temporary appliances until gum and bone healing are completed. At this point, the conventional dentures can be made.

Alternatives to Dentures

There are two alternative methods for replacing missing teeth: bridges and implants.

Bridges: Bridges are used to substitute missing teeth by placing crowns on the adjacent teeth to the gap and connecting a false tooth to both crowns. These bridges can be made from various materials such as gold, porcelain fused to gold, all-porcelain, or zirconium. Depending on the location, bridges can only replace around two to three missing teeth in a row. Since bridges are firmly cemented in place, they are considered a “fixed” or “permanent denture.”

Implants: Implants involve inserting a metal post into the jawbone of the upper or lower jaw. This post serves as a replacement for a single tooth by attaching a crown to it. This also works for multiple teeth by connecting a bridge to multiple implants. Though implants are the most expensive choice for tooth replacement, they closely resemble natural teeth better than any other alternatives available.

Caring for Dentures

It is crucial to properly care for your dentures to maintain their quality and promote oral health. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Handle dentures with care. To prevent dropping them, it is advisable to attitude over a folded towel or a sink filled with water when handling dentures.
2. Daily brushing and rinsing of dentures are essential, but it is important to avoid using toothpaste. Toothpaste is abrasive and can make tiny scratches where food and plaque can accumulate.
3. Similar to natural teeth, dentures should be brushed daily to remove food particles and plaque. Brushing also helps prevent permanent stains on the dentures. Use a soft-bristle brush designed for cleaning dentures and avoid using a hard-bristle brush that could damage or wear down the dentures.
4. In between brushings, solution dentures after every meal.
5. For cleaning dentures, you can use mild dishwashing liquid or hand soap.
6. Placing the denture in the tub causes sound waves to create a wave motion that dislodges deposits.
7. Properly store dentures when not in use. Dentures should be kept moist to prevent them from drying out or losing their shape.
8. Avoid exposing dentures to hot water, as it can cause warping.

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures

Will eating be challenging with new dentures?

Eating with new dentures may require practice and can be uncomfortable for some individuals during the initial weeks. To become accustomed to your dentures, begin with soft foods cut into small bits. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth. Gradually introduce other foods until you return to a regular diet. Be cautious with hot or hard foods, as well as sharp-edged bones or shells. Avoid extremely sticky or hard foods and refrain from chewing gum while wearing dentures. Additionally, toothpicks should not be used while wearing dentures.

Should dentures be worn throughout the day?

Your dentist or prosthodontist will provide guidance on the duration of wearing dentures and when to remove them. Initially, you may be advised to wear them all the time, including while sleeping, during the first few days after receiving your denture. Although this may be temporarily uncomfortable, it helps identify areas that may require adjustment. Once adjustments have been made, it is recommended to remove dentures before going to bed. This lets your gum tissues to rest and permits natural stimulation and cleansing by the tongue and saliva. You can wear them again in the morning.

To sum up, you should bear in mind that you may require one or more follow-up appointments for adjustments. Never attempt to adjust or overhaul dentures by yourself. Regular dental visits are essential to examine the dentures and your oral health. This helps your dentist ensure proper denture fit and chequered for signs of oral diseases, including cancer. If you’re thinking of getting dentures and still have questions, don’t hesitate to book a consultation with us. We’re available to help you smile with confidence!