Dentures
Dentures are also known as false teeth. They are prosthetic decides that serve as replacement teeth, and can be taken out and put back in to your mouth. Your dentist hopes that your natural teeth will last forever but this doesn’t always happen.
In this case, we offer several options to help you restore your oral function and the appearance of your smile. While dentures can take some getting used to, today’s dentures are made of high-quality and durable plastic, which makes them more natural looking and comfortable than ever before. Advances in polymer science over the years has really improved the quality of dentures.
Types of Dentures
Complete dentures are available to patients who are missing most or all of their natural teeth. These dentures replace all of the teeth on the upper and/or lower jaw. They rest on the gums that cover the jawbone. A conventional full denture is placed after any remaining teeth are removed and the mouth tissues have been given time to heal (which make take several months). An immediate full denture is inserted immediately after remaining teeth are removed (and they must be re-aligned after a few months). Both of these dentures can be attached via overdenture (attached to one or more tooth roots) or implant overdenture (attached to dental implants).
Partial dentures replace only some missing teeth. They typically attach to the natural teeth that are remaining with clasps or attachments. These dentures are also known as precision and semi-precision partial dentures. Sometimes crowns are placed on some of your natural teeth and serve as anchors for the denture. Partial dentures also offer a removable alternative to bridges.
There are a lot of options, and your dentist will help you to choose the treatment that is right for you.
The Process of Installing Your Dentures
First your dentist will go over the process and details with you. Each individual patient will have different prerequisites, however here are a several things that every patient can expect:
1. The dentist will take impressions or molds of your mouth. This will be used as the model for creating the denture to the exact specific dimensions of your mouth.
2. The dentist will extract any unhealthy or decaying teeth. This oral surgery requires several weeks of healing time afterwards before the dentures can be placed. Some patients will receive temporary dentures.
3. For patients who are receiving implant overdentures, implant surgery will be performed. This surgery also requires several more weeks of healing time before the dentures can be placed. Temporary dentures may also be used in this case.
Once the dentures are placed, your dentist will make adjustments to achieve the best possible fit and comfort level.
Adjusting to Your Dentures
It may take some time for you and your mouth to get used to the feel of your dentures. The good news is that you’ll be able to eat, speak, and smile with more comfort once you get used to them. After your new dentures are in, it’s normal to expect:
· Your mouth, face, lips, and/or cheeks may initially have a feeling of fullness
· Minor and temporary changes in your speech
Tip: Train the tongue and facial muscles by speaking slowly and enunciating
· Changes in your chewing patterns while adjusting to the new jaw movements
Tip: Start with soft food. Take small bites. Chew foods on both sides of the mouth simultaneously, using your back teeth. Gradually move on to firmer foods. Use denture adhesive for additional stability.