Dentures
If you have lost all of your natural teeth, whether from periodontal disease, tooth decay or injury you can have complete dentures to replace your missing teeth and your smile.
There are a number of types of dentures.
For a conventional full denture, all the remaining teeth are removed, and gums are allowed to heal (which may take several months). A denture is then placed. For an immediate complete denture, it is inserted as soon as the remaining teeth are removed.
Many people dislike full dentures as they move around the mouth and are uncomfortable. For those patients, we can have two or more dental implants placed to stabilise the denture. There are also dental implant supported alternatives for those who do not like having to take your teeth out.
Even if you wear full dentures, you still must take good care of your mouth. Brush your gums, tongue and palate every morning with a soft-bristled brush before you insert your dentures to stimulate circulation in your tissues and help remove plaque.
You may find that your dentures occasionally slip when you laugh, cough or smile. Reposition the dentures by gently biting down and swallowing. If a speaking problem persists, be sure to contact us and we can advise on the best course of action.
What is an immediate denture?
Immediate dentures are inserted immediately after the removal of the remaining teeth. An advantage of immediate dentures is that you do not have to be without teeth during the healing period. However, bones and gums can shrink during the period of healing in the first six months after the teeth are removed. When gums shrink, immediate dentures will need to be relined to fit properly.
Ask a Question What will dentures feel like?
New dentures will feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them. The dentures may feel loose while the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place. It is normal to experience irritation or soreness. You may find that saliva flow temporarily increases. As your mouth becomes accustomed to the dentures, these problems should diminish. One or more follow-up appointments with us are generally needed after a denture is inserted. If any problem persists, particularly irritation or soreness - be sure to contact us and we can advise on the best course of action.
Ask a Question Will dentures make me look different?
Dentures can never be like having your own teeth, but can be made to resemble natural teeth. Dentures will help fill out the appearance of your face and profile if you have been without teeth for some time.
Ask a Question Will I be able to eat with my dentures?
Eating will take practice. Start with soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth at the same time to prevent the dentures from tipping. As you become accustomed to chewing, add other foods until you return to your normal diet. Be cautious with hot or hard foods and sharp-edged bones or shells. Remember, you no longer have your own teeth, and eating will not be the same.
Ask a Question Will dentures change how I speak?
Pronouncing certain words will require practice. Reading out loud and repeating troublesome words will help. If your dentures "click" while you're talking, speak more slowly.
Ask a Question How long should I wear my dentures?
Unless specific instructions have been given, it is best to remove the dentures before going to bed. This allows gum tissues to rest and promotes oral health. It is not desirable that the tissues be constantly covered by the denture.
Ask a Question Will my dentures need to be replaced?
Dentures will need to be replaced if they become loose and the teeth show signs of significant wear. Dentures become loose as bone and gum ridges recede or shrink because there no teeth to keep them there. This can also cause the jaws to align differently, causing over-closed wrinkles around the mouth; left long enough these become permanent. Loose dentures also cause health problems, including sores and infections, make chewing more difficult (causing a poor diet) and change your facial features. It's important to replace worn or poorly-fitting dentures before they cause problems long term.
Ask a Question |