What are Dentures?
Dentures are replacements for missing teeth that can be taken out and put
back into your mouth. While dentures take some getting used to, and will
never feel exactly the same as one's natural teeth, today's dentures are
natural looking and more comfortable than ever.
There are two main types of dentures: full and partial. Dr. Williamson will
help you choose the type of denture that's best for you based on whether
some or all of your teeth are going to be replaced and the cost involved.
How do Dentures Work?
With full dentures, a flesh-colored acrylic base fits over your gums. The
base of the upper denture covers the palate (the roof of your mouth), while
that of the lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to accommodate your
tongue.
Dentures are custom-made in a dental laboratory from impressions taken of
your mouth. Dr. Williamson will determine which of the three types of
dentures described below is best for you.
Conventional Full Denture
A conventional full denture is placed in your mouth after any remaining
teeth are removed and tissues have healed. Healing may take up to six
weeks, during which time you are without teeth. The process of fabricating
a new complete denture will take an additional five weeks.
Immediate Full Denture
An immediate full denture is inserted immediately after the remaining teeth
are removed. (Dr. Williamson will take measurements and makes models of your jaw
during a prior visit.) While immediate dentures offer the benefit of never
having to be without your teeth, they must be relined several months after
being inserted. The reason is that the bone supporting the teeth reshapes
as it heals, causing the denture to become loose.
Partial Denture
A partial denture consists of a metal framework and acrylic teeth that
attaches to your natural teeth. Sometimes crowns are placed on some of
your natural teeth and serve as anchors for the denture. Partial dentures
offer a removable alternative to bridges.
Implant use with dentures is often times a vital option to increase
retention on both full and partial dentures.
How Long Before I Get Used to My Dentures?
New dentures may feel awkward or uncomfortable for the first few weeks or
even months. Eating and speaking with dentures might take a little
practice. A bulky or loose feeling is not uncommon, while the muscles
of your cheeks and tongue learn to hold your dentures in place. Excessive
saliva flow, a feeling that the tongue does not have adequate room, and
minor irritation or soreness are also not unusual. If you experience
irritation, minor adjustments to your new dentures may be required.
How Long do Dentures Last?
As you age, your mouth naturally changes. These changes cause your dentures
to loosen, making chewing difficult and irritating your gums. Over a period
of time, your denture will need to be relined, rebased, or remade due to
normal wear. Relining your denture is a process where the "tissue side"
of your denture has new acrylic applied to accomodate any changes in your tissue
contours. Rebasing your partial denture is a process where worn acrylic teeth
and acrylic substructure are replaced on an existing metal framework essentially
making your existing partial denture like new. At a minimum, you should see
your dentist annually for a checkup.
Tips for Denture Care
When handling your dentures, stand over a folded towel or basin of water. Dentures
are delicate and may break if dropped.
Don't let your dentures dry out. Place them in a denture cleanser
soaking solution or in plain water when you're not wearing them. Never
use hot water, which can cause them to warp.
Brushing your dentures daily will remove food deposits and plaque, and help
prevent them from becoming stained.
Brush your gums, tongue and palate every morning with a soft-bristled brush
before you insert your dentures. This stimulates circulation in your tissues
and helps remove plaque.
See your dentist if your dentures break, chip, crack or become loose. Don't
be tempted to adjust them yourself . This can damage them beyond repair.
Dr. Williamson recommends an annual visit for an oral cancer screening and
evaluation of your existing complete dentures. At this appointment your dentures
will be cleaned in our ultrasonic cleaner.
Periodically, your partial denture will become loose. Do not attempt to
"tighten" the clasp on your partial denture . These clasps are very delicate
and require special pliers for proper adjustment. Dr. Williamson will be happy to
make these adjustments as needed at no charge.
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