Dentures
Dentures are an affordable, straightforward way to quickly replace missing teeth. Before dental implants, a full or partial denture was the preferred treatment solution. Today, many individuals choose dentures as a temporary option while they’re waiting for implant installation.
What Are Dentures?
A denture is a removable prosthesis that replaces missing teeth. Full dentures cover the span of your entire arch (upper or lower jaw). Partial dentures are used when there are still healthy teeth and snap into place around them.
Full dentures are usually crafted of an acrylic base, with varying levels of designs for the choice of “teeth” on top.
Partial dentures can be acrylic or have a cobalt chrome base. As with full dentures, we specifically design the contour and colour of each tooth to blend in with the natural teeth you’re able to retain.
Since dentures fit directly over the gums, they can occasionally lead to pressure spots or sensitivity (especially if the bone is too thin). If metal clasps are required, they may be visible when you smile. As removable appliances, they often trap food underneath during meals.
A well-fitting denture shouldn’t require adhesives or pastes to keep them secure. However, they’re sometimes recommended if you’re new to wearing a removable prosthesis. In time you will be able to adapt to wearing your denture by having it rest directly on top of your gums.
Speaking and eating with a denture can take a bit of practice in the beginning. Try talking in front of a mirror and cutting meals up into small pieces until you become more accustomed to your new smile.
Dentures should be removed nightly and cleaned after each meal. Sleeping in a denture overnight can lead to bacterial infections and accelerated bone loss. Soak your prosthesis in an approved denture cleansing solution to loosen residue. The next morning, brush your denture with lukewarm tap water and rinse it clean. Wipe your mouth with a clean, damp washcloth before placing your denture back into place.
Anyone with missing teeth will eventually experience changes in the bone in those areas. Shrinking, thinning bone support can lead to a looser or uncomfortable denture fit. Occasional adjustments or denture re-lines can ensure that your prosthesis rests closely and comfortably against your changing oral tissues.
The affordability of dentures makes them accessible to people of all backgrounds. They’re useful for temporary or long-term tooth replacement, depending on your personal needs and priorities.
Implants are permanent restorations, making them easier to eat with. Their anatomical design mimics that of natural teeth. As such, you’ll likely feel more confident speaking, smiling and eating with implants regardless of how many you need.
We often compare dentures and implants to motorcycles and cars. A motorcycle can get you from point A to point B at a more affordable price, but a car can do it more comfortably. In this case, the dentures are the motorcycle.
‘Should I Get a Denture?’
Our prosthodontist will work with you one-on-one to determine if dentures are right for you. Contact us today to reserve an appointment.
