What Are Dentures?
Dentures are replacements for missing teeth that can be taken out and put back into your mouth. Dentures are primarily made of plastic with acrylic teeth placed on the denture to create a life-like appearance.
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 many options nowadays to make dentures fit more securely as opposed to the days when dental implants were not in use, and Skyline Dental ensures we provide you all options that are best for your scenario.
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.
How Long do Dentures Last?
Over a period of time, your denture will need to be relined, remade, or rebased due to normal wear from chewing.
Rebasing means making a new base while keeping the existing denture teeth. Also, as you age, your mouth naturally changes. These changes cause your dentures to loosen, making chewing difficult and irritating your gums. At a minimum, you should see your dentist annually for a checkup.
Need more assistance with dentures? Contact Dr. Olson today.
Types of Dentures
There are three main types of dentures: Conventional full denture, immediate full, and partial dentures. Depending on your unique case, Dr. Olson 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, in addition to the cost involved.
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 several months, during which time you are without teeth.
Immediate Full Denture
An immediate full denture is inserted immediately after the remaining teeth are removed. While immediate dentures offer the benefit of never having to be without your teeth, they must be relined several months after being inserted. This is because the bone supporting the teeth reshapes as it heals, causing the denture to become loose.
Partial Denture
A partial denture rests on a metal framework that attaches to your natural teeth. There are times that special crowns are placed on some of your natural teeth and serve as anchors for the partial denture. Partial dentures offer a removable alternative to porcelain bridges.
What’s new with Dentures?
The newest form of dentures is a denture that is completely attached to dental implants that have been placed in your mouth. The denture can only be removed by the dentist when needed.
This type of denture provides the most satisfaction and life-like feeling that a patient can experience when there are no longer natural teeth present.
If you’d like to review your options regarding dentures with Dr. Olson, contact us today to make an appointment.
