DENTURES
Dentures and partial dentures are removable prosthetic devices that can be taken out of the mouth. They are constructed to replace many teeth. They support themselves partly on the gum and underlying bone, and partly on the remaining teeth if there are any.
Dentures are non invasive solutions to replace missing teeth. This means that they do not require any reduction of the existing teeth. Usually dentures made from acrylic but depending on the case the dentist can advise to use different materials like flexible dentures or chrome dentures.
Types of removable prosthetic:
Complete or full denture. This is used in case there are no teeth left in the mouth. They made from acrylic, in few cases a metal net may support the palate. This denture is held in place by the gum and the vacuum created between the gum and the surface of the denture. Sometimes it is necessary to use denture glue to get a more comfortable sensation.
Partial denture. This solution is used in case there are teeth left in the mouth and they can support the fitting of the denture. In this case there are metal or acryl clasps hugging some teeth to hold the denture and keep it on place.
Implant supported denture. This denture is used when the jawbone has no more teeth but still strong enough to hold implants. Implants are titanium screws planted in to the bone and they can provide a support for full dentures. This support may be various depending on the case we name locator or ball head supported clip on dentures or bar retained dentures. These dentures are fully supported by the implants and can provide and very comfortable feeling comparing to a normal full denture. The surface of the denture which covers the gum can be reduced so an upper denture can be used without a palate part. As they are so fixed there are less compromise in the eating habits and there is no change in the sens of taste.
Dentures are planned, designed, and manufactured individually therefore the number of visits and the completion of treatment may be various.
DENTURES AND PARTIALS USUALLY REQUIRE A FEW WEEKS OF ADAPTATION.
For the first few weeks, your new denture may feel awkward or bulky. You should be prepared to experience some difficulty in speaking or chewing as you become used to your denture. However, your mouth will eventually become accustomed to wearing it. Start out by eating soft foods that are cut into small pieces. Chew on both sides of the mouth to keep even pressure on the denture. Avoid foods that are extremely sticky or hard. You may want to avoid chewing gum while you adjust to the denture.
Inserting and removing the denture will also require some practice. Follow all instructions given by your dentist. Your denture should fit into place with relative ease. Never force the partial denture into position by biting down. This could bend or break the clasps.
As you age, your mouth naturally changes, which can affect the fit of the denture. Your bone and gum ridges can recede or shrink, resulting in a loose-fitting denture. In addition, they require adjustments from time to time. In fact the mouth, contrary to dentures, is alive, and continues to evolve. Dentures that do not fit properly should be adjusted by your dentist. After a few years, dentures are not stable anymore and new ones must be made.
IMPORTANT!
CLEAN YOUR DENTURES EVERY DAY!
As with natural teeth, plaque tends to form on dentures. If plaque from eating with your new dentures is not removed on a daily basis it may affect the way your dentures fit, your dentures may not look correct, you may experience profound denture odours and even your health may be at risk. So it is important that you clean your dentures every day. Handling a partial denture requires care. It's a good idea to stand over a folded towel or a sink of water just in case you accidentally drop the denture. Using normal toothpaste is not recommended for cleaning dentures and may cause permanent damage.
It is important to brush the teeth, the gums, and the denture after each meal. Partials that have hooks retain more dental plaque, increasing the risk of cavities. Proper hygiene is therefore essential.
Remember to remove your dentures at night to give your gums a rest. It is advisable to have regular check-ups to ensure your dentures still fit correctly and are in good condition.