Dentures

What are dentures?
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices that replace natural teeth (together with a portion of the surrounding tissue). Depending on your particular needs, dentures are made to replace all of your teeth on just some of them. When only some of the teeth are replaced, the dentures are called “partials.” Well-made dentures, whether they are partials or complete dentures, will be comfortable, attractive, and natural-looking. Dentures will also allow you to eat many of the foods you might be avoiding.

If many of your teeth are healthy, a partial denture can be made to help fill in the area of the mouth missing a small set of teeth. Fixed crowns and special attachments are used to ensure that the partial denture is comfortable and remains secure against the gum line. This eliminates the need for more conventional clasping methods that may be less comfortable. Complete replacements are usually chosen if most or all of the patient's teeth are missing, or the remaining teeth are too decayed and damaged to save. When a complete denture is required, your dentist will prepare the area after discussing the procedure and your prosthetic options.

How are dentures made?
The preparation for placement of the denture may include removing any remaining teeth that are severely decayed, and taking a cast (making a mold) of your mouth and gum line to ensure a comfortable fit. A temporary denture can be used for a brief period to make you more secure in your appearance. Your dentist will discuss this option, and other options, with you during your consultation.

What about proper fit and denture adhesives?
If properly fitted, most dentures will not need adhesive to stay in place. The base of the denture creates a natural suction to your gum line, which ensures a natural fit that will allow you to feel comfortable with everyday routines. With the new advances in technology, today's dentures are often created from acrylic or porcelain and mounted in an acrylic base. Each section is carefully sculpted to mimic your natural gum and tooth shape, for comfort and appearance. Coloration is also taken into consideration during this process. The acrylic base is designed to match your gum line and the acrylic or porcelain teeth are given a natural hue to ensure that the denture will never be taken for anything but natural teeth.

Are there any side effects?
Though the dentures of today are made of advanced material that should feel comfortable and natural in your mouth, after your first fitting it is common to need a few weeks to get used to wearing your new appliance. Some patients will experience effects such as an increase of saliva and slight slurring of speech as their mouths get familiar with the feel of new prosthetics.

How do I care for my new dentures?
Until your gums become used to the new denture, food should be cut into smaller pieces (to reduce chewing) and hard foods should be avoided. Dentures are not brushed like regular teeth. Instead, the dentures are removed after every meal and rinsed to clear away any debris. At night, the denture should be soaked in a dental cleaning solution that can be purchased over the counter at most drugstores and supermarkets. If you experience sore spots or other discomfort, let your dentist know so that a time can be set up for the dentist to adjust your denture. Your mouth and gums will change with time, and over the years, adjustments may help to keep your prosthetic comfortable and natural feeling.