Six Facts About Dentures

Missing teeth affect your appearance, but more than that, they damage your dental structure. Having gaps in between your teeth will not only cause the surrounding teeth to shift but will also lead to bone loss. This will cause the teeth to weaken and jaw to deteriorate. Replacing the missing teeth should be a priority if you want to preserve your dental integrity.

 

Several dental options are available that can help close the gaps such as bridges and implants. But, if you are missing multiple teeth, dental dentures are the ideal solution.

For a long time, dentures were regarded as a solution for seniors, but these dental fixtures offer support and are beneficial to all, both young and old. Here six facts to note as you come for your dentures in Peoria, AZ.

1. Two Options Are Available

Dentures are categorized into either complete or partial.

• Complete dentures

Complete dental dentures are designed to cover the entire jaw and are ideal if you have lost all or more than half of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. These dentures are further grouped into two; conventional or immediate dentures.

Immediate dentures are made before the teeth are extracted and are fixed on the jaw on the same dental visit. The dentist will measure your teeth to choose a perfect fit.

Immediate dentures are ideal if you don’t want to stay without teeth. But, on the downside, they need constant adjustment because as the gum heels the bone shrinks. That’s why the dentures are used as a temporary measure.

Conventional dentures are fixed after the gum has started to heal, which is about eight to 12 weeks after extraction.

• Partial dentures

These dental fixtures are fixed when you have less than half of the teeth missing. They are made of a gum-colored plastic base anchored by a metal framework. These dentures are supported by your existing healthy teeth.

You can also choose implant-supported dentures that are anchored in place using metal posts. These dentures can either be partial or complete and require enough bone density to support the titanium screws.

2. Dentures Require a Few Weeks to be Made

After our prosthodontist has determined which type of denture is ideal, he will make an impression of your teeth and your jaws measured. Next, a model of the exact pattern of your teeth is made.

The dentures are examined to the correct shape, color, and size before the final cast is made.

3. Dental Hygiene is Critical

Proper dental care is crucial regardless of the type of dentures you choose. Here are a few tips:

• Handle the dentures with care to avoid breaking them. Always place them on a towel or cloth when cleaning them.
• Clean your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and a denture cleaner. Avoid using toothpaste and hard-bristled brushes to avoid scratching and damaging the dentures.
• Keep the dentures moist when you are not wearing them. Place them in water or a denture cleaning solution (avoid this if the dentures have a metal framework). Never use hot water because it can cause them to lose shape.

The dentist will recommend the right method of caring for your particular denture.

4. The Dentures Need an Alignment Often

Every two years, the dentures need an adjustment. As the bone shrinks, the fixtures become loose.

The dentures can last for about five years with proper care.

5. Dentures Are Not Worn for 24 Hours

Dentures need to be removed at night to allow the gums to breathe. However, in the first few days, you may need to wear them all the time to get the right fit.

6. They Will Feel Uncomfortable in The Initial Stages

The first time you wear the dentures there will be discomfort. Your speech may be impaired too, but will soon get back to normal as your tongue gets used to the dentures.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Westbrook Village Dental for dentures in Peoria dentistry. We offer different dental services including partial and dentures dental care to help you maintain your structure.