Dentures are removable teeth replacements for lost teeth. Although they do not provide the same feel as natural teeth, dentures are comfortable and natural-looking. There are two main types of dentures: complete and partial. If you are looking to restore your smile with dentures in Delray Beach, experts at SEDA Dental can help.
Types of dentures
Dentures can be complete or partial, depending on the number of missing teeth.
These types of dentures are used when all the teeth are missing. Complete dentures can either be conventional or partial. Traditional dentures are usually inserted sometime after teeth removal and the gum tissue has healed. Immediate dentures are positioned immediately after the teeth are removed. These types of dentures usually require more adjustments during the healing process to ensure a proper fit.
Partial dentures are used when one or more teeth remain in your mouth after tooth loss. These types of dentures are usually attached to a pink or gum-colored plastic base. A metal framework connects the base to help keep the denture in place. Partial dentures consist of a cemented bridge used to replace the missing teeth and prevent the remaining teeth from changing position.
How long it takes to get used to dentures
Dentures are artificial teeth replacements. Therefore, they do not have the same feel as natural teeth and require getting used to. Newly inserted dentures will feel bulky, loose, awkward, and uncomfortable. However, this feeling will only last in the first few weeks or months. You should expect minor soreness and increased salivation during this period. Normal oral activities like chewing and speaking with dentures will require a little practice to help your tongue and cheeks hold the dentures in place.
How long dentures last
Dentures are long-lasting. However, it is crucial to be consistent in follow-up visits to monitor oral wear and tear that can cause dentures to loosen. Loosened dentures can irritate your gums and impair chewing. During the regular checkups, your dentist will also conduct additional care for your teeth by realigning, remaking, and rebasing your dentures from time to time.
Tips for caring for dentures
After placing dentures in your mouth, your dentist will recommend certain tips to enhance healing and help your dentures last longer. Some of the tips include:
- Dentures are delicate and can easily break when they fall on hard surfaces. You are recommended to observe caution when removing dentures by standing over a pool of water like a basin.
- After removing your dentures, do not let them dry out. Always store dentures in plain water or a denture cleanser soaking solution. Avoid storing dentures in hot water as it may cause them to warp.
- Practice oral hygiene by remembering to brush your teeth constantly. Oral hygiene helps to eliminate food deposits and plaque from your teeth and dentures. This practice will prevent dentures from staining. Your dentist may also recommend you to clean your dentures using an ultrasonic cleaner. It is essential to stimulate blood flow in your tissues by cleaning your gums, tongue, and palate before inserting your dentures.
- Never try to adjust broken, chipped, cracked, or loose dentures. Only your dentist should fix damaged dentures.
The smile plays an essential role in enhancing your overall physical appearance. Schedule an appointment online at SEDA Dental to effectively replace missing teeth using dentures.
