Removable artificial teeth are called dentures. They replace permanent teeth lost or extracted due to damage or extensive decay. False teeth are a traditional dental restoration method that has been around for centuries and is still effective today. However, there are things you need to know about them before you start wearing them.
Your dentist can provide you with all the specific information you need regarding the care of your dental appliances and answer any questions you may have. Nevertheless, before you decide whether this restoration method is suitable for you, there are some general things you need to know.
Some people are reluctant to get the treatment because of the stigma around it. There is a persistent belief that dentures are just for senior citizens. However, tooth loss can affect adults of any age for many reasons. Dental appliances are a common treatment option for replacing missing teeth, and adults of all ages wear them.
A set of full dentures replaces all the teeth in the mouth. However, there are also partials that only replace some of the teeth. Natural teeth that are still healthy are allowed to stay in the mouth, and partials fill in the gaps left behind by the missing teeth. Partials have metal components that support the false teeth and clip onto the remaining natural teeth. Full dentures are typically made entirely of non-metal materials.
It takes time to adjust to the feeling of foreign objects in your mouth, especially when eating or chewing. Your mouth initially reacts to their presence with increased saliva production, meaning that you may drool for a while after receiving your dental appliances. You may also feel them move while you are chewing. Gradually, you will figure out adjustments you need to make for eating to be most comfortable. The key is to keep wearing the appliances as often as your dentist recommends. If you are inconsistent in wearing them, your body will not have the chance to become accustomed to them, causing the initial problems to persist.
Your appliances are fitted for your mouth initially, but over time you undergo changes to your gums and jaw. As a result of the changes, your dentures may no longer fit properly. Your dentist can adjust or realign them so that they fit better. Otherwise, they could slide around in your mouth or fall out and break, requiring repair. Eventually, the appliances wear out and have to be replaced, which occurs every seven years or so.
Do not attempt to repair your dentures yourself. You could injure your mouth or make the problem worse.
Traditional dentures do not require an extensive amount of home care, but it is important to follow your dentist's instructions carefully to prolong the life of these appliances. First, proper cleaning is a necessity. Removal and rinsing after eating are often recommended to help wash away food particles along the gum line and prevent irritation and bacterial buildup. Dentures should also be brushed at least once a day with a soft-bristled brush and denture-safe toothpaste.
Most dentures should be removed before bed. Typically, the appliances are placed in a soaking solution overnight to neutralize bacteria and prevent staining. Soaking also helps prevent the materials from drying out so they do not become brittle and more susceptible to damage. One of the easiest ways to chip, crack, or break dentures is to drop them during the process of removing them or placing them in the mouth. Laying a plush towel across the sink and placing a rug on the floor can help cushion any accidental drops.
While wearing dentures can help restore tooth function for easier biting and chewing, there are still some foods that should be avoided. Hard, crunchy options can cause damage and uneven wear, while nuts, seeds, and popcorn can become trapped and lead to irritation. Coffee, red wine, and soda may stain dentures and should be enjoyed in moderation.
Dentures are a time-tested method for restoring missing teeth, but many people have mistaken ideas about them. You should know the facts before you decide whether the treatment is appropriate for you.
Request an appointment here: https://totalcareimplantdentistry.com or call Total Care Implant Dentistry at (760) 394-3088 for an appointment in our Palm Desert office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dentures in Palm Desert, CA.
Partial dentures are one of the most cost-friendly and effective options for replacing missing teeth. They can either be removable or fixed dentures. This is a guide on what partial dentures are, their benefits, and how to care for them.Partial dentures, commonly known as partials, are artificial replacement teeth that replace a patient's missing teeth.…
If you want to know if your dentures will feel normal, the answer is yes. You may have recently gotten the teeth, or perhaps you are considering getting them.You might want to know what to expect. The good news is that today’s prosthetics feel more natural than ever, and you can get accustomed to them…
Dentures are one of the various methods that dentists use to replace teeth. If you have lost many of your teeth or even all of them, talk to your dentist about which treatment makes the most sense.If you choose this one, you can enjoy the long-term restoration of your smile and the ability to chew.…
People choose dentures to replace teeth for many reasons. If you have lost teeth or if the dentist has extracted some of yours, there are effective solutions to fill in the gaps in your mouth.You should not have to live with the embarrassment or difficulties of not having teeth. While there are various options to…
Dentures can be a great way to replace missing teeth, but they require regular denture care and maintenance. In fact, dentures can last for ten or more years with proper denture care. How long dentures will last depends on how well and how often you take care of them.Dentures rarely need repairs, but dentists recommend…
While regular dental visits are vital for maintaining oral health, an urgent dental problem requires an emergency dentist. Dental emergencies, including severe pain, injury, or infection, require immediate attention to prevent complications and ensure the best outcome. Knowing when to seek care from an emergency dentist can be key to preserving oral health.Severe tooth pain…