Are you missing one or more of your teeth and finding it difficult to eat or smile? Then you may be thinking about getting a denture. Although this is a common thing for many people, some people are afraid and others are hesitant because they don't know much about it. So today, let's find answers to all the questions you have about these dentures.
First, let's see, what are dentures?
Simply put, a denture is a removable appliance that can be used to replace missing teeth in your upper jaw, lower jaw, or both jaws. Dental technicians use a variety of materials to make these. For example, acrylic, resin, nylon, metal, and porcelain are used. They are made to fit your mouth exactly and look natural.
What are the main types of dentures?
When it comes to dentures, there are many different types. Choosing the right type for you depends on your needs and oral health. Let's take a look at the main types.
| Tooth set type | Who is this suitable for and how? |
|---|---|
| Full Dentures | This is the traditional denture that we are all familiar with. It is used when all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing . It rests on the gums. Sometimes a special paste (Denture Adhesive) has to be applied to stop it from moving. |
| Partial Dentures | This is a good option if you only have a few teeth missing. The special thing about this is that it can be attached to the remaining real teeth with small clasps . So it moves less than a full denture. |
| Immediate Dentures | Sometimes, it is necessary to remove decayed teeth before a denture can be fitted. This is the name given to the denture that is fitted immediately after the teeth are removed . This may be temporary. After the gums heal, you will be fitted with a permanent denture. |
| Implant-retained Dentures | This is a slightly more advanced method. Here, small titanium posts (dental implants) are surgically implanted in your jawbone. Then, the dentures are made to "snap" onto these implants, meaning they fit tightly . These can be removed and replaced. But they are very stable because they don't move like regular dentures. |
| Implant-supported Dentures | These are also called permanent dentures. They are permanently attached to implants. You can't remove them at home . Only a dentist can remove them. This is good for people who don't want to remove them every day. But they are a little harder to clean, and you have to clean underneath the dentures. |
What does the dentist do before putting in a set of dentures?
If you're considering a set of dentures, you should first see a dentist. The doctor will carefully examine your mouth, gums, jawbone, and remaining teeth. They may also take an X-ray of your teeth to check the thickness of your jawbone.
Then, we will discuss with you which set of dentures is best for you. This will be influenced by the following factors:
- How many teeth are you missing?
- How long has it been since the tooth was lost?
- Do you prefer a removable one or a permanent one?
- The thickness and strength of your jawbone.
- Your personal preference.
How do you make this set of teeth?
This is a process that takes place in several steps.
1. Taking impressions of your mouth: First, the doctor will take impressions of your upper and lower jaws. They will use something like a special paste for this.
2. Making a model of your mouth: The measurement is then sent to a dental lab. The dental technicians there use that measurement to make a replica, or mold, of your mouth.
3. Design of the denture:Next, using that model, they create the places where the teeth will fit with wax. Then, they create a base that looks like gum from a material like acrylic, and attach the artificial teeth to it. They also check to see if the upper and lower teeth fit together exactly.
4. Polishing: Finally, the fabricated set of teeth is carefully polished, shaped to look natural, and sent to the doctor to be fitted to you.
How long does it take to get used to a set of dentures?
There is no single answer to this. It varies from person to person. It usually takes a few weeks or maybe a month or two . In the early days, it may feel a little uncomfortable because it is something new in your mouth. You will feel a difference when you talk and eat.
The most important thing is that in the first few weeks after your dentures are fitted, you will need to see your doctor a few times to make sure they fit properly, and if they are getting stuck or hurting . This is normal, so don't worry.
Advantages and challenges of using a denture
What are the advantages?
- Eating becomes easier.
- The face looks more beautiful, and the sunken cheeks disappear.
- The pronunciation of words becomes clear.
- Being able to eat well improves nutrition.
What are the challenges?
There are some challenges, especially with regular removable dentures. Many people say that the dentures move and shift when they talk and eat. Also, after losing teeth, the jawbone gradually wears down over time. Therefore, the dentures can become loose over time.
How do you take good care of your teeth?
A denture can usually last for about 7-10 years. But it needs good care. Also , you should have your dentist check it every year or two and have it 'relined' if necessary . That is, adding new material to the base of the denture to fit the worn jawbone and adjusting it.
| Daily care | |
|---|---|
| Take off for the night. | Remove your dentures every night before going to bed. This will give your gums a rest. |
| Clean thoroughly. | Use a special toothbrush and toothpaste to clean your dentures. Do not use regular toothpaste, as it can scratch your dentures. |
| Put in a solution. | After removing your dentures, soak them in water or a denture solution. This will prevent them from drying out. |
| Keep your mouth clean. | After removing the dentures, thoroughly clean your gums, tongue, insides of your cheeks, and remaining teeth (if any) with a soft toothbrush. |
Is it good to sleep with dentures?
No. It's very important to keep your dentures out for at least 8 hours a day. This gives your gums a rest, reduces harmful bacteria in your mouth, and helps keep your jawbone strong.
If you see something like this, see a dentist immediately.
If you notice any changes in your teeth, it may be time to replace or repair them. So see your dentist soon.
- If the set of teeth feels loose .
- If the gums are sore or injured .
- If you hear a "click" sound when talking.
- If the denture is discolored or damaged .
- If it is more than 10 years old .
Take-Home Message
- A set of dentures is a great solution to avoid the discomfort caused by missing teeth, eat well, and smile beautifully.
- Be sure to see a dentist to determine what type of dentures are right for you.
- To ensure long-term use of your dentures, it is essential to clean and care for them properly every day.
- Removing your dentures at night is a great benefit to your gums and oral health.
- If you experience any discomfort, looseness, or pain in your teeth, never delay talking to your dentist about it.
👩🏽⚕️ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) from the Doctor
💬 What is a set of teeth?
Simply put, a denture is a removable appliance that replaces missing teeth. They are made of materials such as acrylic, nylon, or metal, and are designed to fit each person's mouth and look natural.
💬 What are the types of dentures?
There are three main types of dentures. Full dentures are used when all the teeth in a jaw are missing. Partial dentures are used when only a few teeth are missing. Immediate dentures are used to temporarily replace missing teeth.
💬 When is a partial denture placed?
A partial denture is suitable when you are missing only a few teeth in your upper or lower jaw, but the rest of your teeth are healthy. It is more stable than a complete denture because it is attached to your remaining natural teeth with small clasps.
💬 අදහස් (0)
තවමත් කිසිදු අදහසක් පළ කර නොමැත. ඔබේ අදහස පළමු වරට මෙහි එක් කරන්න.
ඔබේ අදහස එක් කරන්න