Tooth loss can affect more than just appearance. It can make daily activities like eating and speaking difficult and may also lead to a drop in self-confidence. Dentures are one of the most effective and affordable ways to replace missing teeth and restore oral function.
In this article, we’ll explain what dentures are, explore the different types available, highlight their benefits, and walk you through how they work.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and the surrounding gum tissue. They are custom-made to fit your mouth and can be either partial or complete, depending on how many teeth are missing.
Dentures are often recommended for individuals who have lost teeth due to gum disease, injury, decay, or age-related wear. With advancements in dental materials and technology, modern dentures are more comfortable and natural-looking than ever before.
Types of Dentures
Dentures are broadly classified into three main types: complete dentures, partial dentures, and implant-supported dentures. The type that’s best for you depends on how many teeth you have lost and your overall oral health.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures are used when all teeth in either the upper or lower jaw are missing. They rest directly on the gums and are held in place through suction or with the help of a denture adhesive.
There are two kinds of complete dentures:
- Conventional Dentures: These are made after all the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed. Healing can take several weeks, during which the patient will be without teeth.
- Immediate Dentures: These are placed on the same day as the tooth extraction. They offer the benefit of never having to go without teeth, but they may require adjustments after the gums heal and shrink.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are recommended when some natural teeth remain. They are used to fill the gaps left by missing teeth and are usually made with a metal framework or a flexible acrylic base that clasps onto the surrounding natural teeth.
They help in maintaining the alignment of remaining teeth by preventing them from shifting into the empty spaces.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures are a more advanced option that offers superior stability and comfort. These dentures are anchored to dental implants that are surgically placed in the jawbone.
They are particularly beneficial for patients who experience difficulty with traditional dentures slipping or causing sore spots. While they are more costly, they provide excellent support, better chewing ability, and help preserve the jawbone by preventing bone loss.
Benefits of Dentures
Dentures offer several advantages for people who have lost teeth. Some of the key benefits include:
- Improved Appearance: Dentures restore the natural shape of the face and jaw, preventing the sunken look that often occurs after tooth loss.
- Better Chewing Ability: With dentures, patients can eat a wider variety of foods, which helps in maintaining proper nutrition.
- Clearer Speech: Missing teeth can affect pronunciation. Dentures help restore normal speech patterns.
- Increased Confidence: Replacing missing teeth with dentures can greatly improve self-esteem and confidence in social situations.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Compared to dental implants or bridges, dentures are usually more affordable and still provide functional and aesthetic benefits.
- Non-Invasive: Except in the case of implant-supported dentures, most denture procedures do not involve surgery.
How Dentures Work
The process of getting dentures usually involves several steps over multiple appointments. Here’s a general overview of how they are made and fitted:
- Dental Evaluation: The dentist begins with a thorough examination of the mouth, including any remaining teeth and gums. X-rays may be taken to assess bone condition.
- Tooth Extraction (if needed): If any damaged or decayed teeth need to be removed, this is done before starting the denture fitting process.
- Impressions and Measurements: The dentist takes impressions of the patient’s mouth to ensure a precise fit. These molds are sent to a dental laboratory to create a custom set of dentures.
- Trial Fitting: A trial version of the dentures is created to check the fit, bite, and appearance. Adjustments are made as needed for comfort and function.
- Final Placement: Once the final dentures are ready, they are fitted and further adjusted for a snug, comfortable fit.
- Follow-Up Care: Patients return for follow-up visits to ensure the dentures are functioning well and to make any necessary refinements.
Caring for Dentures
Proper care is essential to keep dentures clean and your mouth healthy. Here are some basic tips:
- Remove and rinse dentures after meals to eliminate food particles.
- Brush dentures daily with a soft denture brush and a non-abrasive cleaner.
- Soak dentures in a cleansing solution overnight to maintain their shape and hygiene.
- Rinse thoroughly before wearing them again.
- Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the denture material.
- Clean your gums, tongue, and palate every morning before inserting the dentures.
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and adjustments.
If you’re considering dentures or want to explore other tooth replacement options, consult a qualified dentist who can guide you toward the best treatment for your situation.
For expert denture solutions and personalized dental care, visit Dr. Sachin Mittal’s Advanced Dentistry in Hisar today.