Dentures

Dentures are prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are made of a combination of materials such as acrylic, porcelain, and metal. Dentures can be either partial or full, depending on how many teeth are missing.

Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain, and they attach to these teeth with clasps. Full dentures, also called complete dentures, are used when all teeth are missing and they rest on the gums that cover the jawbone.

Dentures are custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth and to resemble natural teeth. They can improve chewing, speech, and appearance, and they also support the lips and cheeks, which can sag when teeth are missing.

There are several types of dentures that patients can choose from depending on their needs and budget. Here are some of the most common types of dentures:

• Conventional full dentures: These are made after the remaining teeth are removed and the gum tissue has healed. This process can take several months, and the patient will be without teeth during this time.
• Immediate full dentures: These are made before the remaining teeth are removed, so the patient can have teeth immediately after extraction. Immediate dentures are not the final dentures, and they need to be adjusted or replaced once the gum tissue has healed.
• Partial dentures: These are used when some natural teeth remain and the denture can be attached to these teeth with clasps.
• Implant-supported dentures: These are held in place by dental implants, which are placed into the jawbone. Implant-supported dentures offer a more stable fit, but they are more expensive than traditional dentures.

Proper care and maintenance of dentures is important to ensure their longevity and to keep your mouth healthy. Here are some tips for caring for your dentures:

• Clean your dentures daily: Brush your dentures with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive denture cleaner to remove food particles and plaque. Avoid using regular toothpaste, which can be too abrasive and damage the denture.
• Soak your dentures overnight: Place your dentures in water or a denture soaking solution overnight to keep them moist and prevent warping.
• Handle your dentures carefully: Dentures are fragile and can break if dropped. Always hold them over a soft towel or basin of water when handling them.
• See your dentist regularly: Your dentist can check your dentures for fit and function and make any necessary adjustments.

It may take some time to adjust to wearing dentures. Here are some tips to help you adjust to your new dentures:

• Start with soft foods: Eat soft foods that are easy to chew, such as eggs, cooked vegetables, and mashed potatoes. Gradually add firmer foods to your diet as you become more comfortable with your dentures.
• Practice speaking: Speak out loud and practice words that are difficult to pronounce. You may need to re-learn how to speak with your dentures.
• Use denture adhesive: Denture adhesive can help to keep your dentures in place and prevent them from slipping.
• Be patient: It may take a few weeks or even months to fully adjust to your dentures. If you experience any discomfort or soreness, see your dentist for an adjustment.

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