What are dentures?
Complete dentures are a removable teeth replacement method used when all of the teeth in a dental arch are missing. Constructed with a plastic resin base, full dentures overlay the entire top or bottom dental arch. Top dentures are held in place using natural suction, and lower dentures are held in place mainly with gravity and the use of the tongue. These oral prosthetics are specially designed in a laboratory to fit snugly and match your facial structure and other unique aspects of your smile. They are removable for cleaning and sleeping. Full dentures are a great option for adults and seniors who have lost all the teeth in a dental arch, as they can improve self-esteem and, more importantly, give you back the tooth function you need to improve your quality of life.
What are the different types of dentures?
- Conventional. After all of the teeth are removed, the gum tissue can take up to six weeks to heal properly. A conventional denture is constructed after this healing process to ensure optimal fit.
- Immediate. An immediate denture is constructed before your teeth are extracted and is placed in your mouth immediately after the extraction procedure. An immediate denture ensures that you do not have to go without teeth while your gums are healing, but it will not fit as well as a permanent denture, especially after the gums shrink during the healing process.
How are complete dentures beneficial?
Dentures help stabilize the mouth and enhance the facial appearance. After a patient has been without teeth for a significant period of time, the gum tissue and underlying jawbone reduce in size, causing the lips to collapse. Dentures provide support to the facial muscles and reduce the appearance of a sunken-in mouth.
How do I maintain good denture health?
It is important to not only clean your dentures but to also maintain a daily oral hygiene routine with your entire mouth. Use a tongue scraper or toothbrush to remove bacteria from your tongue. Brush the sides of your cheeks and gums with care. Dr. Gross may recommend a cleaning solution for overnight soaking of your dentures. It is important to remove your dentures at night so that your gums and surrounding teeth can rest. This will help your gums stay healthy and hold your dentures firmly in place. Handle your dentures carefully and do not place them on a hard surface or drop them. A toothbrush or a special brush is necessary to clean any debris from your prosthetic. Soft-bristled brushes and gentle brushing will ensure that the dentures are not damaged. Always keep your dentures wet in lukewarm water when they are not in your mouth.