Dentures

Dentures are replacements for natural teeth which go missing. Dentures are fully removable and although they won't feel exactly the same as your former teeth, modern dentures are more comfortable and aesthetically geared than ever before. There's two main kinds of denture; ones which fully replace your teeth and those which only replace some of your teeth called partial dentures. You should consult your dentist when choosing a denture as which kind is right for you will depend largely on your oral health.

Why do people lose their teeth?

Tooth loss usually occurs due to periodontal disease or gum disease. This is typically caused by a plaque buildup and from bacteria attacking your gums. Infected gums lose their sturdiness and teeth may loosen and fall out. Older people tend to have a lot of cavities which have been filled. These fillings weaken over time and can trigger further tooth decay. There's a number of tips to maintaining a decent level of oral health which you can use to keep your teeth in great shape. Most dentits agree that you should brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. It's important to use short, gentle strokes as being overzealous can lead to enamel damage. It's also advised that you floss your teeth daily and visit your dentist at least twice a year. Smoking has a massive effect on your oral hygiene as does an excess of sugary foods and drinks, ask your dentist for advice on your diet and lifestyle.

Full Dentures

This type of denture has an acrylic base which is coloured to match your natural flesh and fits over the gums. The upper dentures fit neatly into the roof of your mouth and the lower dentures have a horseshoe shape so that your tongue is properly accomodated. In order to create your dentures you'll have a impression taken of your mouth in special dental putty. Conventional full dentures are placed into your mouth after having any teeth which remain in your mouth removed and the tissues have been given time to heal. This can take a number of months and leaves you without teeth in the meantime.

Immediate full dentures

An immediate denture is called this as it's inserted into your mouth straight away after any teeth which remained have been removed. The denture is designed by your dentist taking several measurments and models of your jaw and is done months in advance. Although having your dentures inserted immediately means you won't be without teeth for any length of time, they'll need to be relined a few months after insertion. This is due to the fact that your bone will reshape as it heals and this can affect the retention of the dentures.

Partial Dentures

A partial denture is based upon a metal structure which latches on to your natural teeth. In some cases crowns will also be used on some of your natural teeth to create a sturdy anchor for your dentures.

Caring for your dentures

It's usual for your dentures to feel uncomfortable for a few weeks following insertion. You may need some practice at getting used to eating and speaking with your dentures any many patients report a loose or bulky feeling. As the musles in your mouth get used to holding the dentures in place they should become gradually more comfortable. Other common complaints are an excess of saliva and some minor soreness or irrtation. As time goes on your denture will need to be periodically remade,relined or have a new base fitted due to everyday wear. The shape of your mouth will also change as you age which can affect the retention of the dentures and causing difficulty with chewing. It's reccommended you see your dentist for a checkup at least once a year.

There's some common tips you can follow to get the most out of your dentures and care for them properly. It's important to take care when cleaning your dentures, they're often fragile and can break if dropped. Try to keep your dentures moist by placing them in a denture cleansing solution or just in cool water when not wearing them. Avoid using hot water to soak your dentures, this may warp their shape. You'll need to brush your dentures as you do your normal teeth, this will help remove food debris, plaque and prevent staining. It's also reccomended you brush your tongue, gums and palate ever day before inserting your dentures as this will help to stimulate circulation. If your dentures crack, chip or loosen don't adjust them yourself, consult your dentist as soon as possible.