Since feeling good and looking good are important to us all, it is important to maintain a healthy and attractive smile. When you are missing teeth, you become aware of the importance they play in chewing, speaking and smiling.
If you have lost your natural teeth, then dentures can replace your missing teeth and your smile. Once again you will be able to eat, speak and smile. Three things often taken for granted while natural teeth are present. There are various types of dentures. Complete which means replacing all teeth. Partial where a few natural teeth remain and the partial dentures replaces a few missing teeth.
The great thing about all dentures is that they can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth and smile. The framework is made of a flesh-colored plastic that resembles gum tissue and the teeth come in a variety of shades. More natural looking complete and partial dentures can be attached to implants. This provides a secure fit in the mouth. Implants are titanium “roots” that attach directly to the jawbone. These implants help complete and partials to look and feel more natural.
Implant retained dentures have a longer healing period for your jaw compared to traditional dentures. It can take 3 to 4 months for the implant to secure into the jawbone. During this healing period the dentures can still be worn but they will not securely attach to the implants.
Implant retained dentures may not be possible if the jawbone is too thin for the implant to secure into. Traditional dentures that rest on the gums and roof of the mouth are an alternative to implanted retained dentures.
Immediate dentures are placed in the mouth the day the natural teeth are extracted. These will need relines as the mouth heals from the extractions and the bone and gums change shape. Conventional dentures are placed when the teeth have been extracted years prior. Conventionals can be replacing old or worn dentures or can be made for someone who has missing teeth but has never worn dentures before.
An adhesive can temporarily aid a loose-fitting denture. Prolonged use of adhesive is not recommended. A denture that does not fit properly may cause irritation and possible sores. If loose, a dentist should check and the denture may require a reline procedure or it may be time for a new, better fitting denture.
Dentures are a prosthetic and there is a training period for your gums to adapt. There is also a learning period. It may take time to learn how to chew and speak again using denture teeth. Dentures can be uncomfortable if they do not fit properly. It is important to visit a dentist for routine check-ups so the denture and fit can be evaluated. Over time bone and gums will change shape and the denture will need to be modified so it will fit properly.
Dentures can be a great way to replace missing teeth and restore your smile.
