Dentures are a type of removable dental appliance that can replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are typically made of acrylic resin or a combination of acrylic resin and metal, and they come in full and partial denture options.
Dentures
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Why might you need it.
You might need dentures if you have lost some or all of your natural teeth due to various reasons, such as:
- Tooth decay: Advanced tooth decay can lead to tooth loss, which can be remedied by dentures.
- Gum disease: Periodontal disease can cause tooth loss and may require dentures to replace the missing teeth.
- Trauma: Teeth can be lost due to accidents, injury, or trauma.
- Genetic conditions: Some people may be born with missing teeth, or they may develop conditions that cause tooth loss.
- Age: As people age, their teeth may become weaker and more prone to damage and decay, leading to tooth loss.
Dentures can help to restore your ability to chew and speak properly, improve your facial appearance and self-confidence, and prevent other oral health problems caused by missing teeth. Your dentist can evaluate your individual case and determine if dentures are the best option for you.
The Procedure
The process of getting dentures typically involves several steps and may require multiple visits to the dentist. Here is a general overview of the procedure:
- Consultation: The first step is to schedule a consultation with a dentist to determine if dentures are the right solution for you. During the consultation, the dentist will examine your teeth and gums and discuss your treatment options.
- Impression: Once it is determined that dentures are the best solution, the next step is to take an impression of your mouth. This involves making a mold of your gums and any remaining teeth, which will be used to create a custom set of dentures.
- Wax try-in: Before the final dentures are made, you will have a wax try-in. This involves trying on a wax model of the dentures to ensure the fit is correct and that they look natural.
- Final fitting: Once the final dentures are ready, you will return to the dentist for a final fitting. The dentist will adjust the dentures to ensure they fit properly and are comfortable.
- Follow-up visits: After you receive your dentures, you will need to visit your dentist for follow-up appointments. During these appointments, the dentist will check the fit of your dentures, make any necessary adjustments, and provide instructions for care and maintenance.
It is common to experience some discomfort or soreness in the mouth after getting dentures, but this usually goes away after a few weeks. It is important to follow the care instructions provided by your dentist to keep your dentures in good condition and ensure they last for a long time.
Aftercare
Proper aftercare is important to ensure that your dentures fit well and last for a long time. Here are some tips for caring for your dentures:
- Clean your dentures daily: Remove and rinse your dentures after eating to remove any food particles. Clean them at least once a day with a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner.
- Brush your gums, tongue, and palate: Brush your gums, tongue, and palate with a soft-bristled brush before putting your dentures in to stimulate circulation and remove plaque buildup.
- Soak your dentures: Soak your dentures in water or a denture cleaning solution overnight to keep them moist and clean.
- Handle with care: Be gentle when handling your dentures to avoid bending or damaging them. It is also important to keep them out of reach of children and pets.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Visit your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings. The dentist will check the fit of your dentures, make any necessary adjustments, and examine your mouth for any signs of oral health problems.
- Consider denture adhesive: If your dentures feel loose or uncomfortable, consider using a denture adhesive to improve their fit.
By following these aftercare tips, you can help ensure that your dentures fit well and stay in good condition for a long time. If you experience any problems with your dentures, such as discomfort, soreness, or damage, contact your dentist right away.
