Over time, people’s teeth
and supporting structures can naturally deteriorate. When a tooth
has deteriorated substantially, it often needs to be extracted.
And when multiple teeth are extracted, dentures may be the appropriate
solution. Dentures can create a natural and healthy looking set
of teeth. A properly fitting set of dentures can greatly enhance
your smile and sense of self-esteem.
Complete the Partial Dentures
Many types of dentures exist, including complete and partial dentures.
Complete dentures are used when none of the original teeth remain.
The dentist begins by removing any remaining teeth so the dentures
can be fitted. The dentist takes an impression, makes a mold of
the tissue, and sends it to the dental lab where customized dentures
are constructed. Patients can be fitted with temporary dentures
until permanent dentures are completed. Partial dentures are prepared
in much the same way as completed dentures, and are utilized when
only a few teeth are missing and a fixed bridge is not practical.
Overdentures
If the roots of a patient’s remaining teeth are still in
the tissue and the gums are strong, the dentist may suggest an
overdenture. Overdentures fit on top of the remainder of the teeth
in the mouth. With overdentures, the remaining teeth are resculpted
and covered with metal caps to stop future decay. The advantage
of overdentures is that they feel better and do not have to be
relined as frequently as a complete set of dentures because the
jawbone and gums recede less. In addition, overdentures create
less occlusion (bite) problems that complete dentures.
Once Your Dentures Have
Been Placed
At first, your dentures will feel uncomfortable because the gums
and tissue are not accustomed to contact with man-mad material.
Once placed, patients should wear their dentures continually for
the first few days to reduce the amount of swelling that may occur
in the mouth. This swelling typically recedes in two to three
days. Until patients become accustomed to their new set of teeth,
the dentures may feel loose and awkward while chewing food. Eating
soft food may also be necessary for the first few days. Reading
aloud helps to overcome any speech impediments that may occur
from new dentures. Typically, lower dentures take longer to get
used to than upper dentures. The underlying jawbone may take several
months to completely heal and adjust to a new denture. Once healing
occurs, the dentist removes the denture and creates a permanent
lining for a better fit between denture and the gum tissue.
The Life of Your Dentures
Proper care and cleaning will increase the life of your dentures.
Proper care and minimal jaw recession can extend the life of your
dentures up to 25 years. Dentures should be cleaned daily with
a normal or specially made denture cleaner. Once swelling has
reduced, it is advisable to leave both dentures out at night to
allow the gum tissues to breathe. In order to prevent dentures
from warping, they should be left in overnight. Over time, the
lining of the dentures may change, owing to the wear and tear
of daily use. In case of tissue/bone shrinkage, dentures may come
loose and need to be relined.
