Dentures & Partial Dentures
Losing some of all natural teeth leads to several problems and difficulties. When all teeth are not present and working in harmony, it may disrupt the ability to speak or chew and may alter the physical appearance of the face. Patients missing several or all teeth may notice their cheeks sinking in, deeper creases around the mouth and nose as well as sagging or drooping lips.
A denture is a removable dental prosthesis made to replace missing teeth. A denture may be complete or partial. Complete dentures are fabricated for patients that are missing all teeth while partial dentures are made to replace missing teeth in patients that still have some of their own natural teeth.
What is the denture process like?
A denture will usually take several visits to complete to ensure it provides the proper fit, function and esthetics. The dentist will take highly accurate impressions followed by measurements and try-ins before the denture is finished. When a new denture is worn for the first time it may feel bulky and strange in the mouth, even for patients who have previously worn dentures. Speech and salivary flow may be affected at first. Over the next several days, the mouth should adjust to the new denture and it should start to feel more natural and comfortable. During this initial adjustment period, small irritations or sores may develop on the gums or tissue. A visit to the dentist will allow adjustments in the fit of the denture to be made.
How to Clean Dentures
Though denture teeth will never need a root canal or need a filling, they still need to be properly cared for to guarantee their longevity. Dentures should always be free of food and debris. They should be rinsed and cleaned after each meal to be sure there are no food particles attached to the outside or inside of the denture. Food left on a denture may not only lead to mouth irritation but may also produce mouth odor. Never use toothpaste, bleach or mouthwash to clean a denture. Denture cleaner should be used daily to keep the dentures clean. Never sleep with a denture in the mouth. Dentures that are not frequently removed from the mouth can lead to bacterial and fungal infections, such as thrush. Be sure to monitor the denture for cracks, wear or loosening.
What are overdentures?
Some patients may find it difficult to wear dentures, especially if they do not have a significant amount of bone for the denture to rest upon. These patients will benefit greatly from implant retained dentures (overdentures). Several small implants may be placed by the dentist or surgeon. The denture snugly fits over the implants to prevent it from moving or sliding during eating or speaking. Implants also prevent bone loss that naturally occurs in areas of missing teeth and lead to loosening dentures.
