What are dentures?
Dentures are appliances that replace missing teeth. Unlike permanent tooth replacements like dental implants, you can remove dentures and put them back into your mouth as needed.
What are the types of dentures?
Dentures can be full or partial. If you’ve lost all your natural teeth, full dentures may be right for you. Partial dentures replace only one or a few teeth, similar to a bridge. The difference between a partial denture and a bridge is that dentures are removable.
The team at Sharon Springs Dental provides two main types of full dentures:
Conventional full dentures
Your dentist places conventional dentures after they remove your remaining teeth and allow your oral tissue to heal. The healing process can take several months.
Immediate full dentures
Immediate full dentures are usable the same day the oral surgeon removes your teeth. This allows you to have artificial teeth during the healing period. However, the team at Sharon Springs Dental may need to refit or tighten your dentures after your jaw heals.
Why would I need dentures?
Dentures are a replacement for missing natural teeth. If you’ve lost your natural teeth due to tooth decay, gum disease, or an injury, dentures can improve your appearance and make it easier to talk and eat.
If dentures aren’t the best option for you, the team at Sharon Springs Dental may recommend dental implants.
What does it feel like to have dentures?
It can take some time to get used to dentures. The flesh-colored base fits over your gums, which some people find uncomfortable. Dentures can also feel loose and move around, affecting how you eat and speak for a while.
Over time, dentures begin to feel more like your natural teeth. They fill out your face and profile, preventing the muscles around your mouth from sagging.
How should I care for my dentures?
Care for your dentures like they’re your real teeth. Brush your dentures to remove food and plaque before you take them out. After removing them, you should put your dentures directly into a container of room-temperature water or a denture cleaning solution. Never use hot water because it can change the shape of your dentures.
Dentures are delicate, so be careful when handling them, and don’t try to adjust them yourself. Call the team at Sharon Springs Dental if your dentures are loose, uncomfortable, or broken.
If you need dentures or another tooth restoration, call Sharon Springs Dental or request an appointment online today.
