Dentures are a type of dental appliance. They are customized to fit the patient’s mouth and provide a replacement for missing teeth. Missing teeth can cause embarrassment and difficulty with eating and even speaking. For many people, dentures are the perfect way to restore your smile.
Different Types of Dentures
There are two basic types. Complete dentures are designed for patients that have lost all their teeth. The plate will be gum-colored and fitted with plastic or porcelain teeth. They are fitted for the patient’s mouth so that the gums create a seal. Adhesive can be used to strengthen the bond and prevent them from coming out unintentionally.
Partial dentures are designed to replace teeth in an area of the mouth where the teeth are missing. Clasps hold them in place, and they fit in between natural teeth. The teeth found in the partial plate will match the number of teeth the patient is missing in that area. This type of prosthodontics can be made of plastic or metal. Metal is generally used, particularly for long-term usage. Plastic plates are often used as a temporary measure, while the gums are healing after tooth extraction.
Advantages of Getting Dentures
If you are living with missing or broken teeth, dentures can offer you many advantages.
For instance, the advantages of dentures include:
- Improved physical appearance
- Increased self-esteem
- Ability to eat hard or chewy foods
- Improved speaking ability
- Relief of pain from damaged teeth
The Process of Getting Dentures
For many people, tooth extraction occurs before dentures are made. If the teeth are badly damaged, they may be removed so a complete set can be used. When teeth are lost or extracted, the gums must be allowed to heal before you can be fitted. The gums and the underlying bone changes shape during the healing process. You can be fitted 8-12 weeks after teeth have been removed.
Temporary Dentures
Temporary dentures, also known as immediate dentures, are actually designed before your teeth are extracted. Your dentist will take dental impressions and measurements about one month before your extraction.
Temporary dentures will be created based on molds of your existing teeth and gums. You may be fitted with them immediately after extraction or the next day. They may become loose or uncomfortable over time as your gums change, but adhesive can help keep them in place. Once your gums have healed properly, you will have new impressions made. These will be used to create your permanent pair.
When Should You Be Wearing Your Dentures?
Dentures are generally worn during the day and taken out at night. However, when you first get them, you will need to wear them at all times while your gums are adjusting. It also allows the dentist to find any problem areas and make adjustments. This is particularly important with temporary dentures. Your gums may become swollen so that the dentures no longer fit properly if you take them out for a period of time.
Getting Comfortable With Your Dentures
Dentures can make eating and speaking easier. However, it will take some practice. It’s recommended to begin with soft foods when getting accustomed to them. They may also fall out occasionally when you are eating or speaking. Most people adjust very quickly and enjoy the benefits.
Learn More at Lovett Dental Missouri City
Dentures can improve your quality of life. Why wait and struggle with missing and damaged teeth any longer? Contact us at Lovett Dental Missouri City at 281-969-5099. Our dental professionals provide a wide range of dental services, including dentures. Let us get you smiling again.