It has long been accepted that good oral hygiene is essential to overall health and wellbeing. Dentures, which are artificial replacements for missing teeth, are a commonly used tool to help maintain good oral hygiene and health.
This comprehensive overview will discuss the different types and materials of dentures, how to get dentures, tips for cleaning and care, and the benefits of wearing dentures.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable prosthetic appliances intended to replace missing teeth and associated structures. They are sometimes called “false teeth” and are generally constructed in two forms: partial dentures or complete dentures. Partial dentures replace one or a few missing natural teeth, while complete dentures are used when all teeth need replacement. Occasionally, dental implants may anchor a full or partial denture in place.
Dentures are made up of artificial teeth, which are attached to a plastic base that is fitted to the gums. The plastic base of the denture is designed to fit the shape of the mouth and provide a secure fit. Different types of dentures are available, including permanent dentures, designed to remain in the mouth for a long time, and removable dentures, which can be taken out for cleaning.
When wearing dentures, it is important to keep them clean to prevent the build-up of food particles and bacteria. Brushing dentures with toothpaste and soft-bristled toothbrushes is recommended, and soaking them overnight in a denture cleaner. Soft foods should be eaten when wearing dentures, as hard foods may cause the dentures to become loose or dislodge.
How Are Dentures Used?
Using artificial replacements for lost teeth, dentures are employed to facilitate the chewing of food and to improve the appearance of the face. Dentures are a type of prosthetic that is available in two forms – conventional dentures and removable dentures.
Conventional dentures are used in cases where gum disease has caused extensive bone loss, and the patient’s gum tissue is unsuitable for supporting a removable denture. Removable dentures are made of acrylic resin and are held in place with a denture adhesive.
Upper dentures are designed to replace the lost teeth in the upper jaw and are held in place by the soft tissue and bone of the upper jaw. Lower dentures are designed to replace lost teeth in the lower jaw and are held in place by tongue and cheek muscles. Dentures should be worn daily and removed only for cleaning and when sleeping.
Dentures can also be used to improve the appearance of the face by providing support to the cheeks and lips, which can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. They also help to restore the natural contour of the face, which can help the patient to look younger and healthier.
Dentures can be a great solution for patients who have lost teeth due to gum disease or injury. If used and cared for properly, dentures can help to improve the patient’s quality of life by restoring the ability to chew and improving the appearance of the face.
Types of Dentures
Types of dentures include conventional and removable dentures designed to replace lost teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Conventional dentures are made after the remaining teeth are removed, and the tissues have healed, while removable dentures are used to replace lost teeth and can be taken out at night for cleaning. Denture materials are typically made of acrylic resin, metal, or nylon. Well-fitting dentures can help to improve facial muscles and speech, while ill-fitting dentures can cause pain, discomfort, and speech impediments.
Denture teeth are made of acrylic resin or porcelain; the metal framework is often cobalt chrome or titanium. A denture fixative may be necessary if the dentures fit poorly. Implant-retained dentures, or overdentures, are attached to dental implants and can provide greater stability than regular dentures. Temporary dentures replace missing or extracted teeth and can be used until a permanent solution is found.
The cost of dentures varies depending on the type of denture chosen, the materials used, and the complexity of the treatment. Generally, dentures made from acrylic resin are less expensive than those made of metal, and implant-retained dentures will require a higher cost due to the implants used. Ultimately, patients should choose the type of dentures that best suit their needs and budget.
Materials for Dentures
Materials used for dentures include acrylic resin, metal, nylon, porcelain, cobalt chrome, and titanium. Dentures made with these materials are designed to fit comfortably in the mouth and improve the patient’s quality of life. They can help improve a patient’s speech, eating, and oral health.
Dentures can help reduce bad breath and tooth decay when properly cared for. The metal clasps on traditional dentures can be uncomfortable and irritate. Modern dentures are made with more comfortable materials, making them more comfortable to wear.
Patients should take special care of their dentures and clean them regularly. Denture cleaners and a brush should be used to scrub the dentures gently. Additionally, patients should use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush to clean their remaining natural teeth.
A dental prosthetist may use animal teeth, porcelain, or metal when constructing dentures. Porcelain is a popular material because it can be crafted to look similar to natural teeth. Metal is also used in some cases to provide extra strength and stability.
How to Get Dentures
Getting dentures typically requires several visits to a dentist or dental prosthetist. The process begins with thoroughly examining the patient’s mouth to assess the health of the teeth, gums, and other oral structures. This will then help the dentist determine the appropriate type of dentures for the patient, such as implant-supported dentures and the best way to fit them. Depending on the patient’s needs, the dentist may also suggest wearing dentures at night to help with fitting.
Once the dentures have been fitted, proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure they last. This includes cleaning the denture surface with mild soap and a soft brush and soaking them in a special cleaning solution overnight. Additionally, regular dentist check-ups are recommended to ensure the dentures are properly fitted and the patient is benefiting from them.
For some patients, dentures may not be the best option. The dentist may suggest alternative solutions, such as dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures. These alternatives may offer specific benefits over dentures, such as improved stability and comfort, and the dentist will be able to explain the pros and cons of each option.
Tips for Cleaning and Care
Having discussed the process for getting dentures, it is important to consider the tips for cleaning and care of dentures.
Dentures should be cleaned daily to help keep them in good condition. To clean dentures, use hot water to rinse off any food particles. Then, use a denture cleaning solution or denture cleanser with a soft-bristled toothbrush. It is important not to use regular toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive for acrylic teeth. Additionally, do not use denture glue to clean your dentures. Instead, use a separate denture reline kit to make a dental impression to repair any existing damage.
Once dentures are clean, rinse them off with warm water and allow them to air dry. Brushing any remaining natural teeth daily with toothpaste to keep your mouth healthy is important. Lastly, dentures should be taken out overnight to rest the gums. This will also help keep the dentures in good condition.
To summarise, these are the tips for cleaning and caring for dentures:
- Rinse with hot water
- Use a denture cleaning solution or denture cleanser with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Do not use regular toothpaste or denture glue
- Take out dentures overnight and brush natural teeth with toothpaste daily.
Benefits of Wearing Dentures
Wearing dentures can provide several benefits to those who require them. Patients with loss of teeth can be provided with a denture base customized to their needs. This denture base is made from either chrome or plastic and is designed to fit the patient’s jaw bone and gum line. Denture patients also benefit from having full teeth in their mouths, which can help with eating and speaking. Furthermore, dentures can also prevent fungal infections, which can occur when teeth are missing.
Moreover, dentures can also help to strengthen the jaw bone and help to retain its natural shape. Sometimes, a bone graft may be needed to ensure the denture base fits correctly. Dentures can also provide an alternative to more expensive procedures such as dental bridges or implants. Dental insurance providers are also more likely to cover dentures, as they are more cost-effective than other forms of dental work.
Lastly, dentures require regular cleaning to ensure they remain in good condition. Various denture cleaning methods are available, such as using specialized cleaning agents and soaking the denture in a cleaning solution. Cleaning dentures properly is essential to prevent the buildup of bacteria and to keep the dentures looking and feeling their best.
Key Takeaways
Dentures can be a great solution for those looking to improve their smile and oral health. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing for a personalized fit for each individual.
Dentures can last for years with proper care and maintenance, providing the wearer with a sense of security and stability. Dentures can accompany you through the years like faithful companions, never wavering in their dedication to your dental health.
With dentures, you can be confident to smile, knowing you have made the right decision.
If you’re ready to take the plunge and find the perfect dentures for your lifestyle, come to Wattle Park Dental in Surrey Hills, VIC and start your journey towards a beautiful, confident smile. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are here to help you every step of the way. Don’t wait any longer – get the smile you deserve today!