Dentures
A denture or a complete denture as it is often called, is an appliance that is inserted in the mouth, replaces natural teeth and provides support for the cheeks and lips.
Most dentures are made of acrylic and can be fabricated in two different ways.
- A conventional denture is made after all teeth have been extracted and the tissues (gums) have healed.
- An immediate denture is fabricated and inserted immediately after the teeth are extracted and the tissues are allowed to heal under the denture.
- An upper denture has acrylic, usually flesh colored, that covers the palate (roof of the mouth).
- A lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to leave room for the tongue.
The teeth are made of plastic, porcelain or a combination thereof. Dentures can be fabricated to fit over endodontically treated teeth and a complete denture can be attached to dental implants to allow for a more secure fit of the appliance.
Dentures over a normal course of time will wear and need to be replaced or relined in order to keep the jaw alignment normal. The alignment will slowly change as the bone and gum ridges recede or shrink due to the extraction of the teeth. Regular dental examinations are still important for the denture wearer so that the oral tissues can be checked for disease or change.
The Denture Fitting Process
Step 1: The First Consultation
Dentists typically schedule an appointment with the patients to understand their dental history and specific goals. This appointment, known as the first consultation, involves them asking questions about your medical and dental past. The dentist will also inquire about your visual goals and whether you’re comfortable with alternative treatment. They’ll then examine your teeth and gums to determine whether you’re an ideal candidate for dentures.
Step 2: Taking Impressions
If you qualify for the procedure, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth using a tray filled with dental putty. They’ll fit your teeth with the tray and ask you to bite down. Doing so creates an accurate impression of your dental arrangement that they’ll use to fabricate your custom dentures. Our Denton dentist will also register your bite, getting measurements of your teeth and jaw positions to ensure the dentures fit correctly.
Step 3: Try-On
The dentures take between 6 weeks and three months to arrive from the labs. Once they arrive, the dentist will schedule an appointment for you to try your new dentures. They will place the dentures in your mouth and assess their fit. If they don’t require any adjustment, your dentist will release you with instructions for caring for your new dentures.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
Dentures typically last from seven to ten years before they need replacement. Dentures deteriorate over time because of wear and tear. When they do, they loosen, discolor, and sometimes crack or chip. Replacement is crucial for maintaining the dentures’ visual appeal and functionality.
You should replace your dentures immediately if they feel loose in the mouth. You might also have to replace these appliances once they impede your speech or you’re having trouble chewing your food. Severe damage and discoloration of your dentures also mean they’re due for replacement. The same goes for uncomfortable dentures that lead to lesions and bruises on your gums.
How to Care for Your Dentures
Taking good care of your dentures is crucial to their proper functioning and longevity. To take good care of your dentures, you need to remove them before eating and rinse them. You must also use a soft-bristled brush to brush your tongue, inner cheek, gums, and roof of the mouth after eating. Also, rinse your mouth with a fluoride mouthwash to dislodge any food particles in the mouth after eating.
In addition to the above, you should also soak your dentures in cold water or a denture-cleaning solution every night. You can also use a soft-bristled brush to clean your dentures and prevent staining or discoloration. Don’t forget to handle your dentures carefully when removing them to avoid bending the delicate clasps that secure them to your gums. Lastly, don’t forget to schedule regular dental visits to check your dentures’ fit and functionality.