Losing teeth can affect more than just your smile—it can impact how you eat, speak, and feel about yourself. Dentures offer a tried-and-true solution to restore both the look and function of missing teeth, helping individuals regain their confidence. However, before getting dentures, it’s essential to understand what the process involves, the different types of dentures available, and how to care for them.
Table of Contents
Types of Dentures
There are several types of dentures to suit various needs:
- Full Dentures: These replace all the upper or lower teeth and rest on the gums.
- Partial Dentures: These fill in gaps when some natural teeth remain and are anchored to nearby teeth using metal clasps or precision attachments.
- Immediate Dentures: Temporary dentures inserted immediately after tooth extraction to allow patients to have teeth while healing.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: These are secured to dental implants, providing greater stability and preventing slipping.
The type of denture recommended will depend on the number of teeth missing, gum health, and jawbone structure.
The Process of Getting Dentures
Receiving dentures is not a one-visit process. It involves multiple steps to ensure the fit and function meet the patient’s needs:
- Initial Consultation: The dentist assesses your oral health and discusses suitable denture options.
- Impressions and Measurements: Custom moulds of your mouth are taken to create dentures that fit comfortably.
- Extractions (if needed): If teeth need to be removed, they will be extracted, and healing time will be required.
- Trial Fitting: A trial denture may be provided to test the fit, comfort, and appearance. Adjustments are made as needed.
- Final Placement: The permanent dentures are fitted, and the dentist checks for proper alignment and comfort.
Adjusting to Life with Dentures
It’s normal to experience some discomfort and difficulty speaking or eating when first wearing dentures. It can take a few weeks to adjust, during which practice is essential. Some common challenges include:
- Soreness: It’s common to feel some gum irritation initially. Dentists may recommend adjustments to relieve discomfort.
- Speech Issues: It may take time to pronounce certain words clearly. Reading aloud or practising conversations helps speed up the process.
- Eating Difficulties: Start with soft foods and gradually introduce harder items to get used to chewing with dentures.
Caring for Your Dentures
Proper care ensures that dentures remain in good condition and last as long as possible. Here are essential tips:
- Clean Daily: Brush dentures with a soft-bristle brush to remove plaque and food particles. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive.
- Soak Overnight: Place dentures in a denture-cleaning solution to keep them moist and prevent warping.
- Handle with Care: Avoid dropping dentures, as they can crack or break.
- Remove Overnight: Taking them out while you sleep allows your gums to rest and reduces the risk of infection.
- Visit the Dentist Regularly: Routine check-ups ensure the dentures fit properly and that your gums remain healthy.
When to Consider Dentures
Dentures are an excellent option for those with extensive tooth loss who want a non-invasive, affordable solution. They restore functionality, allowing patients to eat and speak with ease, while also improving facial appearance by providing support to the lips and cheeks. For those with sufficient jawbone, implant-supported dentures offer enhanced stability without the slipping often associated with traditional dentures.
Conclusion
Dentures can be life-changing, restoring confidence and improving quality of life. With modern advancements, today’s dentures are more comfortable and natural-looking than ever before. If you are considering getting dentures, it’s essential to choose a trusted dental provider for expert care and personalised solutions.