Dentures are removable false teeth that are made of acrylic or metal. They fit snugly over the gums to replace the missing teeth and eliminate potential problems caused by gaps. Gaps that are left by the missing teeth might cause problems while eating and speaking and the teeth at either side of the gap would grow into the space at an angle. The teeth might sometimes be required to be removed and replaced with false teeth. You might either need complete dentures which would replace all of the upper or lower teeth or you might need partial dentures that would replace one or a few of the missing teeth. Dentures can help in preventing the above problems. If you use complete dentures, that would improve the appearance of the smile, fill the face and provide confidence to you.
Complete Dentures
A full denture would be fitted if all the upper and lower teeth need to be removed or if you have an old complete denture replaced. The denture would be fitted in as soon as the teeth are removed so that you would be without teeth. The denture would fit snugly over the gums and jawbone. The guns would need time to heal for several months before the dentures could be fitted well.
You can see a dentist or a qualified clinical dental technician to have the dentures made and fitted:
- A dentist would take impressions and measurements of the mouth and then order full or partial dentures from a dental technician.
- A clinical dental technician would provide a full set of dentures directly to you without you having to see the dentist.
Trial dentures would be created from the impressions that are taken from your mouth. The dentist or the dental technician would make you wear it to assess the fit and appearance. The colour and shape would also get adjusted before the final denture is produced.
Partial Dentures
It is designed to fill the gaps left by one or more missing teeth. It is either made of metal or plastic plate with a lot of false teeth attached to it. It clips onto some of the natural teeth with the help of a metal clasp that holds it securely within your mouth. It could be quickly removed and unclipped.
The dentist can take measurements of your mouth and order dentures for you. You could also opt to see a qualified clinical dental technician who could provide a partial denture to you right after you see the dentist for a treatment plan and certificate of oral health.
Caring for your dentures
Dentures might feel strange, to begin with, but you would get used to wearing them soon. Initially, you might wear dentures all the time, including when you are sleeping. The dentist or clinical technician would advise you if you should remove the dentures before you sleep or not. It’s not always necessary to remove your dentures at night but doing so might allow the gums to rest as you sleep. If you do remove them, they should be kept moist, such as in water or polythene bags in an overnight dental cleaning solution that suits your denture type. This would prevent the denture material from drying out and changing its shape.
