COMPLETE DENTURES
What is Denture?
If you are reading this for sure you might know a bit about dentures. But let us explain in our way. A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Two types of dentures are available, complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain You might have seen in your neighbourhood or in movies, old people brushing their removable teeth set (no offence), those are dentures (complete dentures to be precise).
What are the complete dentures?
As mentioned earlier, complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing and are of two types conventional and immediate
Conventional dentures
A conventional denture is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has begun to heal. And conventional denture is ready for placement in the mouth about eight to 12 weeks after the teeth have been removed.
Immediate dentures
Immediate dentures are made in advance and can be positioned as soon as the teeth are removed. As a result, the wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. However, bones and gums shrink over time, especially during the healing period following tooth removal. Immediate denture requires more adjustments to fit properly during the healing process and generally should only be considered a temporary solution, which is a disadvantage.
What are partial dentures?
Partial dentures are removable, which usually consist of replacement teeth attached to plastic bases. These plastic bases just look like our gums in pink colour. Partial dentures are made by our dentist based on your need.
They can be any type such as
- A partial denture having a metal framework and clasps that connect your teeth
- A partial denture with other connectors that are more natural-looking.
- Precision arrangements are also an option which is made to attach to your natural teeth
Crowns on your natural teeth are needed sometimes to improve the fit of a removable denture. Partial dentures with precision attachments generally cost more than those with clasps. Come visit us to find out which type is right for you.
How are dentures made?
Developing the dentures takes a few weeks. Once our prosthodontist determines what type of appliance is best for you, the general steps we follow are
Step 1:
Make a series of impressions of your jaw and take measurements of how your jaws relate to one another and how much space is between them.
Step 2:
Creating models, wax forms or plastic patterns in the exact shape and position of the denture to be made. You will “try-in” this model several times and the denture will be assessed for colour, shape, and fit before the final denture is cast
Step 3:
Casting the final denture
Step 4:
As per the fit, adjustments are made
Why do I need adjustments?
It is like trying the new dress your tailor-made and altering it if required. Over time, adjusting the denture may be necessary. As you age, your mouth naturally changes, which can affect the fit of the denture. Your bone and gum ridges can recede or shrink, resulting in a poorly fitting denture. Dentures that do not fit properly should be adjusted by your dentist. Poorly fitting dentures can cause various problems, including sores or infections. Visit us or your dentist promptly if your denture becomes loose, and maintain your regular visits, too.
What do dentures feel like?
Dentures are made to resemble your natural teeth and will be only a minute noticeable change in appearance. In fact, dentures may even improve your smile and fill out your facial appearance.
Initial awkward feeling: Dentures may feel a little odd or loose for a few weeks until the muscles of the cheeks and tongue learn to keep them in place.
Practice: Inserting and removing the partial denture will require some practice.
Pleasant eating experience: Eating should become a more pleasant experience with dentures. Avoid eating chewing gums during the adjustment period.
Don’t force-fit: Your denture should fit into place with relative ease. Never force the partial denture into position by biting down. This could bend or break the clasps.
A bit of Soreness: If the denture puts too much pressure on a particular area, that spot will become sore. After making adjustments, our dentist will probably recommend that you take the partial denture out of your mouth before going to bed and replace it in the morning
How difficult will it be eating with dentures?
You require a bit of time for getting comfortable with dentures. To get used to the new denture, start with soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth. As you get used to new dentures, add other foods until you return to a normal diet. Be cautious with hot or hard foods and sharp-edged bones or shells. And, avoid foods that are extremely sticky or hard. You should also avoid chewing gum while you wear the denture. Also, don’t use toothpicks while wearing dentures.
Will dentures change how I speak?
You’ll have a problem pronouncing a few words. However, if you practice saying these difficult words out loud. With practice, you will become accustomed to speaking properly with dentures.
Dentures may slip when you laugh, cough or smile. Reposition them by gently biting down and swallowing. If you are facing issues speaking, consult us.
Should I wear them for 24 hours?
Well, during the first few days after receiving your denture, you may be asked to wear them while you sleep too. Although this may be temporarily uncomfortable, it is the quickest way to identify the areas where adjustments are needed. Once adjustments are made you can remove them before bedtime. This helps your gums to rest and allow saliva stimulation.
Dentures may slip when you laugh, cough or smile. Reposition them by gently biting down and swallowing. If you are facing issues speaking, consult us.
Should I need denture adhesive?
- For better satisfaction – Adhesives enhance retention, eating force and your sense of security
- For dry mouth condition – Dry mouth lessens denture adherence. People with neurologic disabilities including strokes, and the elderly or one’s taking cold medication may require.
- For stability – For those who place unusual demands on facial muscles, such as public speakers or musicians.