Dentures, full or partial, are a removable option to replace missing or diseased teeth. Partials are used when there are still natural teeth in place and full dentures are selected when there are no surviving natural teeth. A partial is usually constructed of synthetic teeth connected with gum-colored plastic and metal pieces that help hold the denture in place and frame the piece properly. Fulls are made from a very durable acrylic resin bas to ensure strength and longevity. Connected together by either nylon polymer or chrome cobalt metal molded to fit your mouth perfectly.
Immediates are often recommended by dentists for the time between getting your teeth pulled and receiving permanent dentures. They are helpful during the healing process when your gums are still swollen after tooth extraction. They allow for comfortable eating and act as a temporary cosmetic fix. Immediate dentures can help to maintain the shape of your jaw bone during the healing process to ensure your permanent dentures will be the perfect fit.
In addition to cosmetic improvements, dentures allow for more practical means of improvements. Eating should become more enjoyable and comfortable. Your dentists will give you the best timeline for the transition from soft to solid foods. Although some speech may be adjusted initially, with practice and time partials or fulls are meant to actually help improve speech.
Although they are made to fit your unique needs, it may feel awkward or uncomfortable in the beginning. This is normal as you and your mouth adjust to the new addition. Overtime, you become accustom to the denture and will barley feel it. It’s important to never force your dentures in place by biting down or applying pressure with your hand. They should fit naturally with little to no force needed. Your dentist will give you proper instructions on inserting and removing the dentures in addition to proper cleaning and care practices. When first starting to use them, you might feel pressure or sore in one area which is helpful for your dentist to make adjustments as needed.
Over time, as you age, your mouth will change and so your dentures will need to be periodically adjusted. If they are loose or improperly fit, there is risk of infection. Trying to adjust your dentures at home if they are loose or uncomfortable can lead to unrepairable damage. Some products that claim to allow for at-home repair contain hazardous chemical and materials that can lead to illness. Regular visits to the dentist will decrease these risks and increase longevity of your partials or fulls.
Your dentist will supply you with the best practices to care for your dentures. Typically, a denture cleaner will be recommended. Toothpaste and hard toothbrush bristles are too harsh and can contain chemicals that can leave damage. Each day they should be cleaned to remove food debris and bacteria. To avoid accidentally dropping and damaging your denture, it’s recommended you remove them over a soft or close surface. One of the most important steps to properly caring for your dentures is to keep it moist at all times. If they are left out in a dry environment overnight, it can lose its shape and become damaged beyond repair. Store the denture in recommended solution or water when it is out of the mouth for long periods of time.
