Dentures: Types, Advantages, and Care
Dentures are a popular option for people who have lost a significant number of teeth. These removable prosthetics come in two types: complete and partial. Complete dentures replace all of your teeth, while partial dentures are ideal if you still have some of your natural teeth remaining. Compared to dental implants, dentures are a more financially friendly option for those missing multiple teeth. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of dentures, their advantages, and how to care for them.
Types of Dentures:
Complete Dentures: There are two approaches to complete dentures: immediate and conventional. Immediate dentures are fitted immediately after the remaining teeth are removed, while conventional dentures require the mouth to be prepared beforehand. The dentist takes impressions of your mouth to create customized dentures that fit snugly. Conventional dentures may take longer, but they provide a more comfortable and permanent solution.
Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are an option if you still have some of your natural teeth remaining. Impressions of your mouth are taken and sent to a laboratory where the dentures are crafted with artificial teeth. They fit perfectly around your natural teeth.
Advantages of Dentures:
Dentures restore the dental functions of chewing and speaking, allowing you to eat a wider variety of foods.
Dentures prevent the appearance of sunken cheeks and improve facial structure by filling the mouth.
They are customized to fit your mouth, providing more grip and anchor.
They look natural and have a decent firmness.
They can last for around 5 years.
Do Dentures Feel Normal?
It may take some time for your mouth to adjust to dentures. Unlike dental implants, dentures do not have a root, which may affect their stability. During the first few weeks of wearing dentures, you may experience discomfort and need to adapt to eating with them. Start with soft foods and gradually move onto harder foods to exercise your mouth.
What to Expect After Placement?
Your dentist will advise you to wear your dentures for 24 hours during the first week. This will help you identify any discomfort or problems with the dentures. If you experience any issues, report them to your dentist, who can adjust them accordingly.
How to Take Care of Dentures:
After a week, you can start caring for your dentures. Remove them daily and soak them in a special solution. This helps your gums to breathe and your saliva to cleanse the mouth. Denture adhesives may be used to provide extra grip and stability, but they are not necessary for everyone.
Alternative to Dentures:
Dental implants are an alternative to dentures, but they are more costly and require a lengthier treatment process. The all-on-4 dental implant procedure is an option that uses four dental implants per jaw and provides more anchor. It eliminates the need for adaptation following placement and extends the longevity of the implants.
In conclusion, dentures are an effective option for those who have lost multiple teeth. With proper care and maintenance, dentures can provide a comfortable and functional solution for years to come.
