What are dentures?
Dentures are worn to replace missing teeth so that people can smile with confidence, chew their food and enjoy a healthy diet. They will normally be made from acrylic or metal. A complete upper or lower denture is one that is designed to replace all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. A partial denture is one that replaces teeth in between remaining natural teeth and is held in place with clips or clasps that hook around existing teeth.
Why would I want to wear dentures?
Wearing a denture to replace missing teeth will mean that you can eat and speak as normal. This will ensure that you feel confident with your smile. If some teeth are missing and you have a partial denture to replace them they will be hooked to the existing teeth and will give you a more natural look.
When I have teeth removed how soon after that can I have my dentures fitted?
Normally your new dentures will be fitted as soon as your teeth are taken out, commonly called ‘immediate dentures.’ They can be fitted without leaving time for the gums to heal. You will have had an appointment before the tooth extraction so that the denture can be ready to be fitted. Once teeth have been taken out the gums will start to shrink especially during the first 6 months and it is possible that the dentures you are initially fitted which might need to be lined resized or replaced if that happens.
Who will make the denture, and fit it?
Your dentist will take measurements and impressions and then a dental technician will make the dentures.
Will I look different with my dentures?
You should not look too different and depending on what state the extracted teeth were in beforehand, then you may well look better with your dentures. The dentures will support your cheeks and your lips and stop them taking on a sunken appearance. Without teeth or dentures a face will sag and a person will end up looking older and will certainly find it more difficult to speak and to eat. Dentures can be made to resemble the teeth they replace closely, with shading to match the other teeth.
Will it be easy to eat with dentures?
Getting used to eating with your new dentures will take a little time and to start with you can try cutting food into smaller bits. You should then chew slowly being sure to use both sides of your mouth at the same time to try and keep the denture from moving too much. You will soon get used to it!
Will wearing dentures make a big difference to the way I speak?
It might take a little while to get used to pronouncing certain words but if you read out loud to yourself, that might help. If you find your dentures slip a bit when you laugh or cough then gently bite down to reposition them. If it happens a lot then you should see your dentist.
How long should the dentures be worn?
Initially for the first few days your dental team might advise you to wear them most of the time even when you are in bed asleep. Once you get used to them you can take them out at night and soak them in water or a disinfecting solution. This will also give you gums a rest and keep your mouth healthy.
My upper denture is fitting very well but the lower one is a problem - why?
The upper denture will usually benefit from more suction that helps it stay in place. The lower denture has much less support. You will soon get accustomed to the denture and to how best to keep it in place.
Is denture fixative a good idea?
Your dentures will have been custom made for you and there should be no need for additional fixative. A poorly fitting denture will also give rise to soreness and irritation. If this persists see your dentist.
Is there anything in particular that I need to do to care for my mouth when I wear dentures?
Even if you wear full dentures you will need to take care of your mouth and brush your gums tongue and the roof of your mouth. If you have any remaining teeth they too will need, attention. Brushing gums etc. will keep the blood circulation to the gums going. Ask your dental hygienist and dentist for advice.
How do I care for my dentures?
Dentures might break if you drop them so always clean them over water so that if you do drop them they will not break. Brush them well and soak them and use a fizzy denture cleaner to remove any stains. Most dentists will recommend that you use toothpaste to scrub your dentures especially if you use a fixative. Your dentist can clean off any stubborn build up on the denture.
How long will dentures last?
Looked after properly dentures should last for several years. They might need relining or replacing due to wear and tear or if there is any change in the shape of the mouth. Loose fitting dentures can lead to infection and make eating and talking more difficult
How often should I see my dentist with my dentures?
Seeing the dentist is always important, for cleaning and to check that your mouth is healthy and so that the dental team can spot any problems that might be emerging. If you have a full denture then ask your dental team how often you should visit.
Are dentures the only option?
Dental implants are another solution for missing teeth and if you would like to discuss either dentures or dental implants, Dentists Near Me will have a comprehensive listing of dentists at a location convenient to you.