What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable appliances used for replacement of missing teeth and tissues. They are the artificial teeth which enable normal functioning of human mouth. Dentures are of two types – Complete & Partial.

Complete dentures are advised when all the teeth are missing, and partial dentures are applied when only some natural teeth are missing. They are custom made especially for a set of teeth and gum line.

Complete Dentures fit over the upper teeth and roof and on the lower teeth placed like a horseshoe. They are conventional dentures and are removed during the night for cleaning.

Partial Dentures consists of replaced missing teeth attached to artificial gum connected by a metal framework which helps to hold the denture in place. Missing teeth can change the position of other teeth hence partial denture help to overcome this problem and keep the teeth intact.

Types Of Dentures

Dentures are made of porcelain and acrylic resin.

Porcelain dentures look more natural and match easily with the remaining teeth. But porcelain are very brittle and by chance if dropped, will break easily and can wear down the remaining teeth hence, are better used as complete dentures rather than in partial denture.

Acrylic resin dentures, on the other hand, are light in weight and easy to adjust. They fit properly and make the jaw movement smoother.

What Is The Procedure Involved In Placing Dentures?

Step 1

The doctor will first take the impressions of your jaw to analyze how well they relate to one another and whether they have spacing in between them.

Step 2

A wax model is then prepared to check the fitting.

Step 3

Denture with teeth is made with the wax model

Step 4

The patient is made to try the final set of dentures and if required necessary adjustments will be made

Step 5

After all the adjustments are done, the denture is processed which takes 3-4 days and the final porcelain or acrylic denture is made. This is then fitted in patient’s mouth.

How To Take Care Of The Dentures?

Since these are artificial and removable, therefore, it becomes extremely important to handle them with utmost care. If you want your dentures to have a longer life, the following tips should be taken into consideration:

Keep Your Dentures Clean

Always ensure that your dentures are clean. For this you need to brush your dentures with a non-abrasive brush at least once a day. Though they are artificial, yet plaque and bacteria can build up on the teeth causing damage to other teeth and gums. If possible remove your dentures after every meal and wash it with warm water and then wear them again.

Overnight Protection

Soak your dentures at night in water or in the denture solution as prescribed by your dentist. While putting dentures on in the morning make sure you rinse them with clean water as this will help to remove the chemicals if any during the soaking process.

Keep A Look At Your Dentures

Monitor your dentures time to time and visit your dentist if your dentures gets loosen, slip or you come across a change in the bite. Having ill-fitting dentures can cause infections, irritations and other jaw related problems.

Do’s And Don’ts While Dentures On

DO’S

• Soak your dentures overnight in water or solution given by your dentist
• Rinse your dentures before putting them on in the morning and even after having meals.
• Brush daily with soft bristles tooth brush with tooth paste as prescribed by your dentist
• Do take care of your mouth, gums, and tongue

DON’TS

• Do not try and bite hard food with front Dentures
• Do not be abrasive while brushing
• Do not use a toothpick or pointed objects on Dentures
• Do not drop them as they are delicate and may break if you do so
• If they loosen, do not try to fix it on your own instead visit a dentist

Myths About Dentures

• It’s difficult to eat with Dentures on – There are no restrictions on what kind of food you eat. Initially, you might be advised to take certain kind of food but with time you will be able to eat whatever you wish but with precautions.
• Lifetime Solution – If not taken proper care, the dentures may not last for long. Also, over a period they may start to wear down, loosen their natural appearance and chewing ability.
• People might know if someone is wearing Dentures – Gone are the days when they were highlighted. The material used to make dentures is such that nobody recognizes that you are wearing dentures.
• Do not require proper care – Artificial dentures work exactly like your real teeth, therefore, it is extremely important to take care of dentures the way you take care of your natural teeth.
• Can be repaired by self – If you feel that your dentures are no longer fitting the way they should, please do not try to fix them on your own as this may further damage your dentures.
• No further visits to the Dentist – Your oral health does not include only your teeth but also gums, tongue, and tissues. Regular visits to the dentist will ensure everything is being taken care of. Also, he/she can examine the dentures and may advise if you require ant changes

Cost Of Partial Dentures

The cost of partial dentures varies depending on a variety of factors, including the materials used, the number of teeth replaced, and the process of making the dentures. You may also require dental treatment prior to partial dentures. In such cases, the cost may marginally increase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1. Why Is It Important To Remove Dentures At Night?

In order to allow gums and bones to relax at night time, removing denture is advised by dentists. Removing dentures also allow the gum to come in contact with saliva considered good for the oral health of an individual. Get all the necessary information about dentures at your Dr. Kamal’s Dental clinic.

Q.2. Can One Sleep With Dentures On?

No, one can not sleep with dentures on. For best results and good oral health, it is advised by dentists to remove dentures before sleeping to give space for bones and gums to relax.

Q.3. Do Dentures Hurt?

No, dentures do not hurt at all. It is only at the beginning that patients may feel a little discomfort or uneasiness as they are not used to custom dentures in the mouth.