Dentures, also known as false teeth, are custom-made dental appliances that replace a few missing teeth or a full arch of teeth.
They have a gum-coloured base and artificial teeth designed to match the patient's natural teeth.
Dentures are removable and can be taken out for cleaning and sleeping.
Dentures are suitable for people who have lost some or all of their natural teeth due to decay, injury, or other factors. They are also a good option for people unable to undergo other dental procedures, such as dental implants or bridges, due to medical conditions or financial constraints.
However, only some are good candidates for dentures. People with severe gum disease may need to treat their gums before dentures can be fitted.
There are several benefits to using dentures as a dental solution.
Full or complete dentures are removable dental appliances used to replace all teeth in a patient's upper or lower jaw. They are typically made of acrylic or other materials and are custom-made to fit the patient's mouth. Full dentures are used when a patient has lost all their teeth or when the remaining teeth are in poor condition and cannot be saved.
A full denture may be:
Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will have to be made. Immediate dentures are the go-to solution for patients who do not want to appear in public without teeth after removing the damaged teeth.
Partial dentures are also removable dental appliances used to replace one or more missing teeth. They are typically made of a metal framework that attaches to the remaining teeth in the mouth and supports the replacement teeth. Partial dentures can replace missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw and can be made of acrylic or other materials.
These cling to the gums and don’t need metal clasps or adhesives to stay in place. They are a kind of partial denture made of a slightly different material. The dentist inserts temporary dentures that allow patients to experience increased comfort and confidence while eating, chewing, and smiling.
Dental implants support implant-retained dentures. Dental implants are small metal posts that are surgically placed in the jawbone. The dentures are then attached to the implants, providing a more secure and stable fit.
If your natural teeth or dentures stop you from enjoying the chewy foods you love, implant retained dentures may be a good option. The treatment involves securing the full denture onto the implant abutments inside the gum.
While dentures are a popular dental solution for missing teeth, they are not the only option available. Some alternative options to dentures include:
Firstly, it is important to have a thorough dental check-up to ensure that your remaining teeth and gums are healthy. If any decay or gum disease is present, it may need to be treated before the denture procedure can be performed.
Secondly, it is a good idea to discuss your options with your dentist, including the type of denture best for your needs and budget.
Finally, it is important to follow any pre-operative instructions given by your dentist, such as avoiding eating or drinking for a certain amount of time before the procedure.
The denture development process takes a few weeks and typically involves several steps, including:
After getting dentures, it is normal to experience increased saliva flow, soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulties. However, this will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures.
Follow your dentist's post-operative instructions, including wearing the denture as directed and avoiding hard or sticky foods. Over time, your mouth will adjust to the denture, and it should feel comfortable and natural.
With proper care, dentures can last many years and provide a comfortable and effective solution for missing teeth, but they may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.
Caring for dentures is important to ensure they remain in good condition and continue to fit comfortably. Here are some tips for caring for dentures:
As with any dental procedure, there are risks associated with getting dentures. Some of the most common risks include:
We are a full service family dental practice.
Family Dental Practice has proudly been recognised as one of Australia’s top dentists
All Rights Reserved | Family Dental Practice