Want dentures, have dentures, or just looking to find out more things about dentures? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Dentures are a common way of dealing with the loss of teeth for many, but not a lot is known about them to the average person. In this article, we will explore the most important things you need to know about dentures. Let’s get right into it.
What are Dentures?
Research has shown that around 2.2% of adults aged 20 – 64 have no remaining teeth. People with lower incomes are especially susceptible to this problem. Because of this, there is a big need for dentures around the globe. Dentures are also known as false teeth. They are a common solution for people who have lost some or all of their natural teeth. They are removable appliances that are custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth and replace the missing teeth. Dentures can be full or partial, depending on the number of missing teeth.
Full dentures come into play when a person doesn’t have any of their natural teeth left. Meanwhile, partial dentures are used when the person still has some natural teeth remaining. Both types of dentures are designed to look and function like natural teeth, and they can help improve the patient’s ability to speak and chew. The process of getting dentures usually has several steps. First, the patient will have an initial consultation with their dentist to discuss the options and determine the best course of treatment.
Next, the dentist will take impressions of the patient’s mouth in order to form a model for the denture. It could be even an implant-supported dentures. This model is then used to create a custom-fit denture. Once the denture is ready, the patient will have several appointments to ensure a proper fit and to make any necessary modifications. It is important to note that it may take some time for the patient to get used to the denture and to develop the ability to speak and chew comfortably with it.
What are They Made of?
Dentures are, usually, made of acrylic or a combination of acrylic and metal. The acrylic part of the denture is made to look like gums, while the artificial teeth are made of porcelain or acrylic. The denture is held in place by suction or with the help of dental adhesives. Caring for dentures is important to ensure they last as long as possible. Dentures should be brushed daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or denture cleaner to remove food particles and plaque. They should also be rinsed thoroughly before being placed back in the mouth.
It is also important to note that over time, the shape of the patient’s mouth can change, which can affect the fit of the denture. It is recommended that patients have regular check-ups with their dentist to ensure the dentures are still fitting properly.
There are dental implant-supported dentures which are a more permanent solution for people who have lost some or all of their natural teeth. Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed in the jawbone to provide a secure foundation for replacement teeth. The implant-supported dentures are attached to the implant, which allows for a more stable and secure fit than traditional dentures.
The Price
Another important aspect of dentures is the cost. The cost of dentures can vary depending on the type of denture and the materials used. Full dentures, usually, cost more (typically anywhere from $600 – 1,500$) than partial dentures. Additionally, the cost can also vary depending on the location of the dental practice and the experience of the dentist. It is important for patients to discuss the cost with their dentist and find out if there are any financing options available.
Regular Maintenance
Denture maintenance is also important to keep them in proper shape and function. It is important to have your dentures checked by your dentist every year to ensure they are fitting properly and that they are not damaged. Dentures can wear down over time and may need to be relined, remade, or repaired.
Problems That Might Occur
One of the most common problems with dentures is that they can become loose and uncomfortable. This can be caused by changes in the shape of the patient’s jaw or gums, or by the denture itself becoming worn. If this happens, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible to adjust or reline the denture.
Another important thing to keep in mind is that dentures can also cause oral health problems if not properly maintained. Dentures can trap food particles and bacteria, which can lead to gum infection and other oral health problems. It is important to clean your dentures daily and to brush and floss your remaining natural teeth if you have any.
Should I Wear Dentures When I Sleep?
Dentures should not be worn while sleeping. This is because it can cause the dentures to become misaligned and can cause damage to the gums and jaw. It is also important to never try to adjust or repair dentures yourself, as this can cause further damage.
As you can see, dentures are a common and viable solution for people who have lost some or all of their natural teeth. They don’t disturb your everyday life, and caring for dentures is important to ensure they last as long as possible. Just remember, never wear dentures while sleeping, and never try to adjust or repair dentures yourself. If you follow these steps accordingly, you won’t have to deal with any problems down the line. Till next time!
