Dentures are removable dental appliances usually made of acrylic resin containing false teeth in order to replace your missing teeth.
What are complete dentures?
Complete dentures cover your entire jaw, either upper or lower or both. This is for people who have lost all their teeth. Some people call them “plates.” Complete dentures rest directly on the gum that covers the bone.
Complete dentures are custom made for you.
What is the procedure?
The process involves multiple appointments, usually about five. In the first couple of appointments various impressions of your mouth are taken. They are sent to the laboratory. The lab will make a mould of your gums. At a later visit, you and the doctor will select the size, shape and colour of the artificial teeth followed by an appointment to check your bite. In the last appointment your doctor will seat the final denture and make sure it is comfortable and aesthetically pleasing for you.
What are Partial Dentures?
Partial Dentures are used to replace a few missing teeth or a single tooth. They are created specifically for you. The teeth will fit in to the spaces where there are missing teeth. Partial dentures require fewer appointments than complete dentures. They can usually be completed in 2 appointments.
Denture Care-
- Dentures today are made from very advanced materials designed to give you a natural appearance. However, keep in mind that just like your teeth, dentures should be cared for with the same diligence. This means daily brushing and regular visits to your dentist.
Regular visits to your dentist are critical. Your dentist also can make minor adjustments that ensure that your dentures continue fitting naturally and comfortably.
- Just like natural teeth, dentures need to be cleansed of plaque, food particles and other debris. Keeping your dentures in top shape will also help keep the soft tissues of your mouth healthy; an unclean or malformed denture can cause infections and irritation.
Cleaning Techniques
Remember to rinse and brush your dentures after every meal, and soak them in denture solution overnight. This also allows your gums to breathe while you sleep. Here are some simple techniques for keeping your dentures clean:
- People can brush their dentures in a variety of ways. Some people use soap and water or a slightly abrasive toothpaste. Popular denture pastes and creams also can be used.
- Avoid using highly abrasive chemicals or pastes, or vigorously brushing with hard bristled toothbrushes. These can scratch or even crack dentures.
- Hold your dentures gently to avoid loosening a tooth.
- Clean your dentures with cool or room temperature water over a water-filled sink. Hot water may warp a denture. A small washcloth placed in the bottom of the bowl will ensure that your denture isn’t damaged if it falls.
- Soak your dentures overnight in any commercially available product like Efferdent or Polident, and remember to rinse your dentures before placing them back in your mouth.
- Over time, even daily care of your dentures may require them to be cleaned by the dentist. A powerful ultrasonic cleaner may be used to remove hard accumulations of tartar and other substances.
