Dental Dentures, crafted from materials such as acrylic (plastic), nylon, or metal, are artificial teeth that can be taken out. They are designed to fit securely onto the gums, serving to replace missing teeth and prevent any issues that may arise due to gaps.
The spaces resulting from missing teeth can lead to difficulties in eating and speaking, and adjacent teeth may shift or grow into the gap at an angle, causing potential issues.
Occasionally, there’s a necessity to extract and substitute all of the teeth.
Therefore, you might require either:
Full dental dentures (a complete set) – replacing all of your upper or lower teeth, or Partial dental dentures – replacing either one tooth or a few missing teeth.
Dentures can aid in averting issues related to eating and speaking. Complete dentures, if necessary, can also enhance your smile’s appearance and boost your confidence.
There’s a chance that dentures may not meet your expectations. Therefore, it’s crucial to openly discuss your plans with your dentist before proceeding.
How the fitting process for dental dentures is conducted?
Full sets of dentures
If all of your upper or lower teeth require removal or if you’re replacing an old full denture, a complete denture will be custom-fitted for you.
The denture is typically fitted immediately after tooth extraction, ensuring you have teeth without delay. It will snugly conform to your gums and jawbone for a comfortable fit.
However, if dental dentures are fitted immediately after the removal of multiple teeth, the gums and bone may undergo rapid changes in shape, potentially requiring relining or remaking of the dentures within a few months.
At times, it may be necessary to allow your gums time to heal and adjust in shape for several months before dental dentures can be properly fitted.
You have the option to seek assistance from either a dentist or a qualified clinical dental technician for the creation and fitting of your dentures.
The distinction lies in the fact that:
The dentist will take measurements and impressions (moulds) of your mouth, and subsequently, they will order your full or partial dentures from a dental technician.
The clinical dental technician will directly provide you with a full set of dentures, eliminating the need for you to visit your dentist (although regular dental check-ups with your dentist are still recommended).
A prototype denture will be fabricated based on the impressions obtained from your mouth.
The dentist or clinical dental technician will then test this in your mouth to evaluate the fit, while also allowing you to assess its appearance.
Modifications to the shape and color can be made before the final denture is manufactured.
Removable partial dental dentures
A removable partial denture is crafted to address the spaces resulting from the absence of one or more teeth. It comprises a plastic, nylon, or metal plate affixed with several artificial teeth.
It typically attaches to a selection of your natural teeth using metal clasps, ensuring a secure fit within your mouth. Removal is straightforward with a simple unclipping action.
At times, the clips may be composed of a material that matches the color of teeth or gums. However, this variant isn’t universally suitable as it can be more fragile compared to metal.
Your dentist can take measurements of your mouth and arrange for a partial denture to be made, or alternatively, you can consult with a certified clinical dental technician. The technician can supply you directly with a partial denture after your initial visit to the dentist for a treatment plan and certification of oral health.
For further details and guidance regarding bridges and partial dentures, including determining the most suitable type (metal or plastic) for your needs, you can visit the Oral Health Foundation website.
A fixed bridge presents an alternative to a partial denture and might be appropriate for certain individuals.
Crowns are placed on the adjacent teeth, anchoring a false tooth positioned within the gap, effectively linking them together.Top of Form
Caring for your dentures
Initially, dental dentures may feel unfamiliar, but you will quickly acclimate to wearing them.
it may be necessary to wear your dentures continuously, even during sleep.
Your dentist or clinical dental technician will provide guidance on whether it is necessary for you to remove your dentures before going to sleep.
Removing your dental dentures at night isn’t always mandatory, but opting to do so can provide your gums with a restful period during sleep.
When removing your dentures, it’s important to keep them moist, such as by storing them in water or a polythene bag with dampened cotton wool, or in an appropriate overnight denture-cleaning solution.
This prevents the denture material from drying out and altering its shape.
Oral hygiene
Maintaining oral cleanliness remains equally crucial when wearing dental dentures.
Twice daily, it’s important to brush your remaining teeth, gums, and tongue using fluoride toothpaste to ward off tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues.
Cleaning dentures
Regularly removing plaque and food debris from your dentures is essential. Because unclean dentures can result in issues like bad breath, gum disease, tooth decay, and oral thrush.
Clean your dentures with the same frequency as you would natural teeth (at least twice a day: once in the morning and once at night).
You should:
· Before soaking, brush your dentures with either toothpaste or soap and water to eliminate any food particles.
· Soak them in an effervescent solution of denture-cleaning tablets to eradicate stains and bacteria, adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions.
· Brush them again as you would your natural teeth (while being cautious not to scrub too vigorously).
To prevent breakage, clean your dentures over a bowl or sink filled with water, or a soft surface like a folded towel in case they are dropped.
Eating while wearing dentures
During the initial period of wearing dentures, it’s advisable to consume soft foods that are cut into small pieces. Chew slowly and evenly, utilizing both sides of your mouth.
Refrain from chewing gum and from consuming foods that are sticky, hard, or have sharp edges.
You can gradually reintroduce other types of food until you return to your previous diet. Avoid using toothpicks altogether.
