Dentures are removable dental prostheses that are used to replace missing teeth and their surrounding tissues. They are custom-made to fit snugly in the patient’s mouth, allowing them to eat, speak and smile confidently.
Dentures have been around for centuries, with the earliest known dentures dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Etruscans and the Egyptians. Over time, dentures have evolved to become more comfortable, durable and natural-looking.
Full dentures:
Full dentures, also known as complete dentures, are used when all of the patient’s natural teeth are missing. They consist of a flesh-colored acrylic base that fits over the gums, and a set of artificial teeth that are attached to the base.
Full dentures can be either conventional or immediate. Conventional dentures are made after the remaining teeth have been removed and the gums have healed, which can take several weeks. Immediate dentures are made in advance and can be placed in the mouth immediately after the teeth are removed, allowing the patient to have teeth while their gums heal.
Partial dentures:
Partial dentures are used when some of the patient’s natural teeth are missing. They consist of a metal or acrylic framework that attaches to the remaining teeth, and artificial teeth that are attached to the framework.
Partial dentures can be either removable or fixed. Removable partial dentures can be taken out and cleaned by the patient, while fixed partial dentures, also known as dental bridges, are attached to the remaining teeth and can only be removed by a dentist.
It can improve the appearance of the patient’s smile by filling in gaps caused by missing teeth and restoring facial contours that may have been lost due to tooth loss.
Dentures can improve the patient’s ability to chew food and speak clearly, which can improve their overall quality of life.
Dentures are a cost-effective solution for patients who cannot afford more expensive tooth replacement options such as dental implants.
Dentures are a non-invasive option for tooth replacement, which means that the patient does not have to undergo surgery or other invasive procedures.
Remove the dentures from the mouth and rinse them under running water to remove any loose food particles or debris.
Use a soft-bristled brush or a denture brush to clean the denture thoroughly. Make sure to use a non-abrasive denture cleaner and avoid using regular toothpaste as it can scratch the denture surface.
Brushing the gums, tongue, and palate helps to remove bacteria and prevent infection. Use a soft-bristled brush and gentle circular motions to clean these areas.
Place the dentures in a glass of water or a denture solution overnight to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific denture solution.
Dentures can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, depending on the quality of the dentures, the patient’s oral hygiene, and the amount of wear and tear they experience.
Initially, dentures may cause discomfort or soreness in the mouth. However, this should subside as the mouth adjusts to the dentures. If the pain persists, consult with your dentist.
Yes, dentures allow patients to eat a variety of foods. However, it may take some time to adjust to chewing with dentures.
It’s best to remove dentures at night to give the gums a chance to rest and prevent potential irritation or infection.
Using a denture adhesive can help prevent dentures from slipping. Patients can also try chewing on both sides of the mouth and avoiding sticky or hard foods.
Yes, dentures can be repaired if they become damaged or broken. It’s best to consult with a dentist or prosthodontist for repair options.