Want to know what are dentures? When and why do you need dentures? And how life is after getting dentures? Look no further because we have all your questions answered right here!
What are Dentures?
Dentures are an effective treatment to replace missing teeth. The pink base, which is made to replicate and stimulate your gums, is made from acrylic resin while the teeth are made from either plastic or porcelain. Among the two, porcelain is more recommended because it looks more like natural teeth.
In an initial consultation with one of our friendly dentists, it’s important to understand which is the best kind of denture for you.
What are the Benefits of Dentures?
Dentures are so much more than just replacing missing teeth! Whether you lost teeth because of tooth decay, an impact or accident, or aging, having missing teeth can affect you in many ways.
When you lose teeth, the structures around them tend to sag and eventually, so will your facial muscles. This makes a person look older than their actual age. Also, smiling and socialising can be difficult because you feel less confident when presenting yourself to other people. Eating is also a task as you are unable to chew your food properly and this can gravely affect your health.
Wearing dentures can solve all of these problems. Modernisations in Dentistry means that dentures look and feel natural so you can smile as confidently as ever! Also, contemporary dentures are strong enough to let you enjoy eating many of your favourite foods.
What dentures options are available?
There are two main types of dentures: partial dentures and complete dentures. Let’s get a closer look at each so you can figure out which is best for you!
Partial Dentures
This type of denture fills in the spaces left by lost or missing teeth. Partial dentures are removable but these are safely fastened to your mouth as they are supported by clasps wrapped around strong, natural teeth.
Full Dentures
What dentures are needed when you have lost all your teeth?
Full dentures replace all the missing natural teeth in the upper and lower jaw and depending on the patient’s preferences, they can be removable or non-removable.
Removable full dentures utilise the remaining structures in your mouth for support and to keep them from dislodging. However, to feel added assurance that the dentures won’t fall off and to better simulate natural mouth structures for improved appearance, patients may opt for non-removable dentures or implant-supported dentures. These involve 4-6 fixed dental implants, placed in certain areas which, in turn, are able to support a full denture. Visit this website.
What are Immediate Dentures and when do you need them?
As the name suggests, Immediate dentures are placed ‘immediately’ after teeth are removed.
When badly fractured teeth or teeth with extensive decay are removed, the area needs to heal before a permanent set of dentures can be placed. So, of course, you wouldn’t want missing teeth, right? Immediate dentures give you a temporary set of functioning teeth until a permanent denture can be made.
After a period of time, your immediate dentures will loosen as the bone below atrophies (shrinks). To avoid uncomfortable and embarrassing denture movement, the temporary denture may need to be realigned. The realignment process can be carried out several times or more until you are ready to receive your full or partial dentures.
Adjusting with your Dentures
Now that your missing teeth are supported by dentures, it may take a while to get used to them. The feeling of bulkiness is normal but you need not worry! They are designed to fit snugly to prevent them from moving in the mouth.
It may feel awkward at first. Speaking and eating might be difficult so we recommend partaking in a soft diet until you feel more comfortable. If you feel discomfort even after a week, you may want to revisit your dentist Otherwise, you should be good to enjoy your brand new smile!
Finally, when it comes to denture maintenance, It’s recommended you visit your dentist twice a year to check if your false teeth are still in good shape. Also, your gums and jawbone are constantly shifting so a regular check-up will give your dentist the opportunity to check for the need for adjustment.
Now you know what dentures are and how they work, one phone call is all you need to get your smile back. Look great and feel confident even if you have missing teeth! Contact My Local Dentists Northmead on (02) 9630 9996 for a complete or partial dentures consultation today.