All About Dentures

Dentures are a unique form of dental prosthesis designed to replace missing teeth and restore the function and appearance of your smile. They have been used for centuries to improve the quality of life for individuals who have lost their natural teeth due to decay, injury, or age-related wear and tear. Let’s discuss all about dentures and how they can help you achieve a healthy and confident smile.

The Various Types of Dentures

Several forms and variations of dentures are available, each designed to meet specific needs and preferences. Your dentist will recommend the type of denture best suited for you based on your oral health, lifestyle, and budget. Here are some common types of dentures:

1. Full Dentures: Full dentures are also known as complete dentures, and they are used to replace all the natural teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They are custom-made to fit the contours of your mouth and can be held in place using suction, denture adhesive, or dental implants.

2. Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are ideal when you still have some of your natural teeth remaining in your mouth. They are designed to fit around your remaining teeth and fill in the gaps left by missing teeth. Partial dentures are typically held in place using clasps or attachments.

3. Implant-Supported Dentures: Implant-supported dentures are designed to be attached to dental implants that are surgically placed in the jawbone. They provide a more secure fit and stability than traditional dentures and can be ideal for addressing a single tooth or an entire arch of teeth.

4. Immediate Dentures: Immediate dentures are designed to be placed immediately after tooth extraction. They are typically used as a temporary solution while your mouth heals, and your permanent dentures are being made.

5. Overdentures: Overdentures are designed to fit over your remaining natural teeth or dental implants. They provide a more stable and comfortable fit than traditional dentures and can be removed for cleaning and maintenance.

The Straightforward Process of Getting Dentures

Getting dentures often involves several appointments with a dentist or prosthodontist. Here is a brief overview of the denture implantation process:

  • Initial Consultation: During your initial consultation, your dentist will examine your mouth and take impressions of your teeth and gums. This information will be used to create a custom treatment plan that is tailored to your needs and goals.
  • Tooth Extraction (if needed): If you need to have any teeth extracted, your dentist will perform the procedure using local anesthesia or sedation.
  • Creating the Dentures: Once your mouth has healed from any extractions, your dentist will create a set of custom dentures designed to fit your mouth's contours and restore your smile.
  • Fitting the Dentures: Once your dentures are ready, your dentist will fit them into your mouth and make any necessary adjustments or refinements to ensure a comfortable fit.
  • Follow-up Appointments: Your dentist will schedule follow-up appointments to ensure that your dentures are fitting properly and to make any adjustments as needed.

A Few Words on Caring for Your Dentures

Caring for dentures is important to maintain appearance, function, and longevity. Here are the topmost tips for caring for your dentures:

1. Brush Your Dentures: Brush your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner to remove food particles and plaque.

2. Soak Your Dentures: Soak your dentures overnight in a denture cleaning solution to remove any stains or bacteria.

3. Handle with Care: Handle your dentures carefully when cleaning or removing them to prevent them from getting damaged.

4. Keep Your Mouth Clean: Clean your mouth and gums daily to prevent infection and maintain good oral health.

5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental check-ups are important to ensure your mouth's and dentures' health. Your dentist can check the fit of your dentures, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure that your oral health is maintained.

An Overview of Common Denture Problems

Although dentures are designed to be a comfortable and effective solution for missing teeth, they can sometimes cause problems. Here are some common denture problems and how to address them:

1. Poor Fit: Dentures that are loose or do not fit properly can cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty eating and speaking. If your dentures are not fitting well, talk to your dentist about adjusting them.

2. Irritation or Sores: Some people may experience irritation or sores in their mouth from wearing dentures. This can be caused by poor fit or by the dentures rubbing against the gums or other tissues. Talk to your dentist about ways to reduce irritation and prevent sores.

3. Difficulty Eating: Eating with dentures can take some getting used to, and some people may have trouble eating certain foods or may have trouble with the dentures slipping or moving around. Start with soft or easily chewable foods, and practice chewing slowly and carefully to improve your eating ability over time.

4. Difficulty Speaking: Some people may have difficulty speaking clearly with dentures, especially when first getting used to them. Practice speaking slowly and clearly, and if you continue to have difficulty, talk to your dentist about adjusting your dentures.

5. Bad Breath: Poor oral hygiene or inadequate cleaning of dentures can lead to bad breath. Be sure to clean your dentures daily and brush your gums and tongue to help prevent bad breath.

Dentures: The Right Choice for You!

Dentures are a common and effective solution for missing teeth. They are custom-made to fit your mouth and can meet your specific needs and preferences. Modern dentures can provide a comfortable and effective solution for restoring your smile and easily improving your quality of life with proper care and maintenance. If you are considering dentures, get an appointment with a skilled dentist to learn more about your options and determine the best treatment plan for your needs.

In addition, it's important to remember that dentures are not a one-time investment. As you age, your mouth and gums may change, affecting the fit of your dentures. It's important to check and adjust your dentures regularly to ensure they continue to fit well and function properly.

Our dentists can also recommend any additional treatments or procedures, such as dental implants or bone grafts, that may be necessary to support your dentures and maintain your oral health.

Overall, dentures are a valuable solution for individuals with missing teeth. They can provide numerous benefits, including improved chewing and speaking ability, increased confidence and self-esteem, and a youthful appearance. Contact Coeur d’Alene Dental Center, your Cda dentist, to find out more about dentures today!