Many people think that dentures are only for those who have lost their teeth due to age. If you have lost teeth for any reason, dentures can be a viable option in restoring your smile’s brilliance. Dentures also have many health benefits including helping you eat, speaking, and keeping your facial muscles from sagging. With these benefits, dentures can actually maintain a more youthful appearance.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are false teeth that can be removed from your mouth. They can look extremely natural and are a good replacement for missing teeth.
When you visit one of our dentists, we’ll work through a couple different steps to ensure that your dentures are working for you:
- Our dentists will evaluate what type of denture will work best for you.
- A mold is made of your mouth to ensure a close fit.
- The dentures are crafted to your mold, creating custom teeth that fit your needs.
- The dentures are installed and if adjustments need to be made, the dentist can help you get comfortable.
- It is not uncommon to experience some discomfort as you get used to your new teeth.
- As your facial muscles adjust to dentures, they may feel either loose or tight. If that sensation persists, schedule an appointment so that we can adjust the fit.
Types of Dentures
Depending on your situation, our dentists might suggest different types of dentures. Full dentures completely replace your teeth. Any teeth that remain will need to be removed to make room for the full dentures. Partial dentures are set on a wire frame, they only replace teeth that are missing, leaving your healthy teeth in place. Conventional and immediate dentures are examples of full dentures. Overdentures are partial dentures.
Conventional
Conventional dentures are fully removable and are full dentures. The top set of dentures has a plate that molds to the roof of your mouth, while the bottom set makes room for your tongue. Both are molded to your gums to create a tight fit. They are installed after your teeth have been pulled and your mouth is healed.
Immediate
Immediate dentures are installed the same day that your teeth have been removed and are temporary. Immediate dentures are created from a mold taken during a preliminary visit to the dentist. They won’t fit as well as a pair of conventional dentures, but they allow you to have teeth while you heal. Once your jaw heals, it is recommended to get fitted for conventional dentures.
Overdenture
Overdentures fit over teeth that don’t need to be pulled. If you still have some good teeth, leaving them in can provide preserve your jaw and provide stability for your dentures. An alternative to overdentures is dental implants. Dental implants are a more permanent option to dentures and may be right for you.
Caring for Your Dentures
Dentures are delicate. Proper care must be taken to ensure that they don’t warp or chip. Here are a few tips to keep your dentures in good shape:
- Make sure you are cleaning your dentures daily
- Rinse your dentures before brushing
- Use a soft bristle brush and non-abrasive cleanser to clean your dentures
- Put your dentures in a safe place, covered with water, to keep them from warping
- Rinse dentures that have been soaking overnight before you put them back into your mouth
- Use ADA certified adhesive to keep your dentures secure.
As you age, the shape of your mouth may change. If you experience any irritation with your dentures, it may be a sign that it’s time to come in for a check-up. Regular appointments with your dentist are the best way to ensure that your dentures will last and stay comfortable.
Find Your Dentures at Alachua Family Dentistry
If you are considering dentures, Park Avenue Dental in Gainesville, FL can help. We will walk you through the process, finding the best solution for you. Our dentists stay up to date on the most modern advances in oral health. We can make sure that you receive dentures that fit well and are indistinguishable from normal teeth. Come see us today!
