Dentures are removable appliances that are used as a replacement of missing teeth and tissues.
They are the artificial teeth which enable normal functioning of human mouth. Dentures are of
two types – Complete & Partial.
Complete dentures are advised when all the teeth are missing, and partial dentures are applied
when some natural teeth are missing. They are custom made especially for a set of teeth and gum
line.
Complete Dentures fit over the upper teeth and roof and on the lower teeth placed like a
horseshoe. They are conventional dentures and are removed during the night for cleaning.
Partial Dentures consists of replaced missing teeth attached to artificial gum connected by a
metal framework which helps to hold the denture in place. Missing teeth can change the position
of other teeth hence partial denture help to overcome this problem and keep the teeth intact.
Dentures are made of porcelain and acrylic resin.
Porcelain dentures look more natural and match easily with the remaining teeth. But
porcelain, if dropped, will break easily and can wear down the remaining teeth hence, are
better used as complete dentures rather than partial.
Acrylic resin dentures, on the other hand, are light in weight and easy to adjust. They fit
properly and make the jaw movement smoother.
Since these are artificial and removable, therefore, it becomes extremely important to
handle them with care. If you want your dentures to have a longer life, the following tips
should be taken into consideration:
Keep Your Dentures Clean
Always ensure that your dentures are clean for this you need to brush your dentures with a
non-abrasive brush at least once a day. Though they are artificial, yet plaque and bacteria
can build up on the teeth causing damage to other teeth and gums. If possible, remove your
dentures after every meal and wash it with warm water but if you have complete dentures,
then mere brushing would do.
Overnight Protection
Soak your dentures at night in water or in the denture solution as prescribed by your
dentist. So that your dentures do not weaken avoid chlorine with it. While putting dentures
on in the morning make sure you rinse them with clean water as this will help to remove the
chemicals if any during the soaking process.
Keep A Look at Your Dentures
Monitor your dentures time to time and visit your dentist if your dentures loosen, slip or
you come across a change in the bite. Having ill-fitting dentures can cause infections and
irritations.
DO’S
DON’TS
The cost of partial dentures varies depending on a variety of factors, including the materials used, the number of teeth replaced, and the process of making the dentures. You may also require dental treatment prior to partial dentures. In such cases, the cost may marginally increase.
Q.1. Why Is It Important to Remove Dentures at Night?
In order to allow gums and bones to relax at night time, removing denture is advised by dentists. Removing bottom or top dentures also allow the gum to come in contact with saliva considered good for the oral health of an individual. Get all the necessary information about dentures at your nearest Clove Dental clinic.
Q.2. Can One Sleep with Dentures On?
Yes, one can sleep with dentures on. But, for best results and good oral health, it is advised by dentists to remove dentures before sleeping to give space for bones and gums to relax. Since dentures cost a good sum of money, taking good care of them is important.
Q.3. Do Dentures Hurt?
No, dentures do not hurt at all. It is only at the beginning that patients may feel a little discomfort or uneasiness as they are not used to custom dentures in the mouth.