Dentures

There are two types of dentures: complete dentures and partial dentures. Complete dentures replace all of the teeth in either the upper or lower part of the mouth. Partial dentures can replace several teeth, but not all of the teeth in an arch. Complete dentures are held in place through suction, or the close adaptation of the denture base to the surface area of your tissues. Partial dentures are held in place by metal clasps which wrap around remaining teeth.

Your new dentures

Thanks to recent innovations in modern technology dentures now look more natural and feel more comfortable than ever before. However, It's important to remember that even the best dentures will feel awkward and a little uncomfortable in the beginning. It can take several visits to the dentist in order to properly fit a denture. Anything new or foreign to the mouth takes getting used to - that goes for fixed appliances too! (implants, crowns, bridges, even fillings). Dentures always take a little practice and patience getting use to. You might want to practice talking by reading out loud to yourself - it just takes a few days of practice and you'll be back to normal. Chewing will definitely seem strange at first; try starting off with soft foods cut into smaller pieces.

Considerations

One significant disadvantages of dentures lies in the resorption of underlying bone. Depending on the condition and anatomy of your mouth, other alternatives may be available besides dentures. Implants in conjunction with fixed bridges are often very successful in replacing missing teeth. Under normal chewing conditions, the roots of teeth apply stress to the underlying bone which maintains it and prevents it from atrophy. While implants deliver similar stresses and maintain bone, dentures do not.

• Just like your normal teeth, dentures collect plaque and tartar. You can brush your dentures with ordinary facial soap. Never use toothpaste - it's too abrasive.
• Use a soft nylon toothbrush or other recommended denture brush. Brushes with stiff, coarse bristles can cause excessive wear to denture materials and introduce scratches which will make your denture more susceptible to collecting debris, plaque and stain. Use a separate brush for cleaning any natural teeth you have. Also, make sure you clean all areas of your denture.
• Consider using a soft brush on your gums to remove any plaque that may have accumulated. If a toothbrush is too irritating, a piece of wet gauze will do just as well. The massaging action helps increase circulation, improving the health of your gums. It's a good idea to massage your gums by placing the thumb and index finger over the ridge and use a "press-and-release" stroke. Any sore red areas, burning sensations, white patches or growths need to be brought to the attention of your dental office.
• When cleaning your dentures be sure to fill the sink halfway with water, if they fall into the basin without water they will crack. There are special brushes available for dentures ask your dentist or check your pharmacy.
• Try not to let your denture dry out; this might cause its shape to distort.
• Never try to sterilize your dentures in hot water; they will warp.
• When brushing your denture, don't hold it too firmly as this may fracture it.
• Never scrape your denture with sharp instruments in an attempt to remove hard deposits. Instead, take it to your dental office to have them removed.
• When you're not wearing your dentures, keep them in water or denture solution. They need to be kept in a wet environment in order to maintain proper fit and prevent distortion.
• Never leave your dentures in a place accessible to small kids or pets.
• Because your dentures apply constant pressure to the tissues of your mouth; taking them out at night gives your mouth a chance to recover. Prior to going to bed, remove your dentures and place them in a container of denture cleaning solution or water. Preferably, you should soak your denture in a solvent (such as Efferdent, Polident) or a detergent with a chemical action that removes or loosens light stains and deposits. After soaking, thoroughly remove all cleanser by light brushing your denture under cold running water. Occasionally, diluted bleach may be used if the denture doesn't have any metal portions or clasps. Please note that bleach will corrode metal. Most commercial brands of cleaners are identical. If you keep your dentures in over night, red and irritated gums may result. It may also increase the rate of bone resorption, which will lead to loose-fitting dentures.
• If you're unable to take them out at night they should be soaked for at least 30 minutes daily. Soaking your dentures aids in removing stains and preventing the accumulation of bacteria which can cause oral infections and odors.
• Your dental office may provide ultrasonic cleaning to remove heavy stains and calculus (tartar) buildup. The most effective way to keep your dentures clean is by daily brushing, in combination with soaking in a chemical solution.

Poor Hygiene May Result In:

• Esthetic Problems
• Mouth Odor
• Irritation to the tissues under the denture
• Infections in the mouth

Professional Care

Whenever your dentures break, crack, or become loose, you need to contact your dental office.
As you age, so does your mouth. The comfortable denture your wearing now may have to be replaced or relined in a few years; therefore, you need to see your dentist periodically to evaluate its fit.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms from denture use, contact your dental office to schedule an appointment.

• Chronic cheek biting
• Cracked corners of your mouth
• Difficulty speaking with your denture
• Discomfort while wearing your denture
• Problems chewing food
• Red and inflamed gums

A Common Misconception

“I wear dentures, I don’t have to see my dentist anymore.” It’s a common misconception that after losing all your teeth, it's no longer necessary to visit the dentists. Even though you have new dentures, you still need to be seen by a dentist regularly to have your mouth checked. Since your mouth, just like the rest of your body, is at risk for disease, your dentist plays an important role in the early identification of disease. Besides, your dentist will probably be able to remove some of those annoying stubborn stains on your dentures during your next appointment.