As we age, our teeth will inevitably start to show signs of wear and tear. One of the most common solutions to this problem is dentures; it is also a popular alternative to implants. Dentures are a removable set of false teeth fitted over the gums to replace missing or damaged teeth.
If you’re considering getting dentures, it can be hard to know what type is best for you. There are so many different types of dentures that fit the needs of just about anyone. It is essential to understand the different types of dentures and why they are needed. One way you can do this is by looking at an overview of what each type does for the patient and who needs it.
This article will outline various kinds of dentures and their benefits for those who wear them.
What Are Dentures, and Why Do You Need One
Dental appliances known as dentures can take the place of missing natural teeth. Some only need to fill in a few gaps, while others may require replacing teeth and gums.
Fake teeth can be made of many different materials, and it is crucial to invest in one that will last for a long period of time.
If you are looking into getting dentures, there are two categories: partial and full.
When you have tooth loss or natural teeth removed, the need for a denture is instantaneous. As time goes on, without them your remaining healthy teeth will shift more quickly and become weaker. Even if you’re missing just one tooth in particular right now, if left untreated too long, the chances are high that by then, there may be multiple dental issues down the line that will be unmanageable to fix with a single prosthetic solution.
Sometimes dentures are required for adults who lose their natural teeth due to severe tooth decay, injury or a cosmetic purpose to create an even smile line and improve confidence. Dentures can help you eat, chew, and speak better because they support your jaw muscles, which are often weakened by the ridge that forms when a tooth is lost.
There are different types of dentures for various purposes. For example, some people require full dentures due to illness or circumstances. In contrast, other people may only need partial dentures where only a few teeth have been lost.
The type of denture that is most suitable for you depends on your oral health status and lifestyle. The common types of denture options are the following:
Traditional Full Dentures
Full dentures, also known as complete dentures, are removable replacements for a patient’s entire set of teeth. It could either be full lower or upper dentures. These are custom-made and well-fitted to replace natural-looking teeth and restore the lost shape when removed from your mouth. Full or complete dentures can be worn in two ways: on top of existing dental implants (if you have any) or with anchorage devices that will attach them securely over the gum line. Conventional dentures can also help with your chewing, which means you can crush and grind food the way you used to before losing your teeth.
Removal Partial Dentures
Removable partial dentures are generally recommended for people with one or a few missing teeth. The false teeth are affixed to a gum-coloured plastic denture base, and it’s built on a cast metal framework. These dentures restore the natural look and feel of your teeth while also improving their function. Moreover, you can take them out and replace them at any time with ease.
Implant-Supported Dentures
A dental implant is a metal post or screw that has been inserted into the jawbone and provides a solid foundation for dentures. Mouth implants are long-lasting, more comfortable than other prosthetics, and provide much better comfort when eating and speaking.
The downside about this type of denture is that it requires more surgery during the process than most others do because something has to be put inside the mouth to anchor it. Moreover, you need to invest your time and money in this kind of treatment since your gum tissues require a long healing period after the implant surgery. As we know, getting an implant is quite expensive; however, it is a cost-effective solution for tooth loss.
Temporary Dentures
Traditional dentures are not inserted directly after all the natural teeth have been removed. The extraction site and jawbone need to heal before false teeth can be placed, usually taking at least 6 to 8 weeks.
Temporary dentures are also called immediate dentures. As the name implies, it is used immediately after your real teeth have been extracted. These are often used for a few months while waiting for your permanent dentures. Since these are not custom-fitted, you may feel the need to have minor adjustments from time to time because there is a shrinkage in bone mass or bone loss as the gums continue to heal after tooth removal.
Overdentures
An implant-retained denture is an excellent alternative to traditional removable dentures. They work as a permanent solution for your missing teeth. They snap into place and latch onto the abutments, which are metal posts that have been surgically placed in your jaw bone. Unlike regular dentures that can be lost or broken easily, these implants provide much more stability while also improving the mouth’s overall function, such as eating food without having them fall out or get loose. Moreover, you must remove and clean them every night as part of your oral hygiene.
Snap-in Dentures
These dentures are very durable and stable because they are securely anchored to a dental implant. This difference from the implant-supported denture is that they have locator attachments that snap onto the receptors that provide a secure grip. It is an excellent feature for people who need to put them on or take them off often, making the process quick and easy. These dentures work best for patients who have adequate bone structure left in their mouth to support an implant.
Economy Dentures
Economy dentures are the cheapest form of a replacement tooth. It is an option for those who want to take care of their dental problem at an affordable price. These are generic dentures that don’t offer much in terms of comfort and aesthetic appearance. They are ill-fitting dentures and do not sit firmly enough to stop them from falling out when laughing or eating. For these reasons, they can be uncomfortable to wear. In addition, there is a need to use denture adhesive so it will stay firmly in place. People who use them are conscious on how it feels and looks.
Custom Dentures
Custom made dentures are more comfortable to wear. They look natural because the material used is typically ceramic or porcelain. These are more expensive and high-quality materials than plastic or acrylic material, but they provide a much better fit. They also look more natural and blend in with your existing teeth, so you don’t have to worry about feeling self-conscious every time you smile.
There are many different types of dentures, each with its pros and cons. The first thing you should do is assess your needs to decide what kind will work best. Consider whether oral hygiene is a priority or if the convenience of removable teeth might be better suited for your lifestyle. Once you know this, it’s time to consider how much maintenance comes with these choices and which materials would suit our preferences; may it be metal-based or plastic-based denture material may appeal to you.
However, when it comes to getting the perfect set of dentures, you need more than just an idea.
One thing that is great for people looking into dental work like this is consulting a dentist or doctor beforehand to get all their questions answered and find out what’s best suited for them specifically. It may seem not easy at first, but there are plenty of steps involved in finding your ideal solution. Your dental professional can help and guide you by examining your teeth and gum tissue to get the best possible fit for both lifestyle and budget.
Final Thoughts
When you are looking for dentures, there are many different styles to choose from. What is the best type of denture? It depends on your needs and preferences. You can go for a complete set of artificial teeth or opt for partial dentures, which only cover some gaps in your mouth. The choice comes down to what works best for you in terms of comfort and function, how much time you have available to take care of them properly each day, and the cost of dentures. If you can’t decide which one will be right for your situation, call Peel Dental Studio today at 08 9535 4900. We offer free consultations to better understand your particular dental needs before recommending any specific solutions or treatments.
Dentures are false teeth that replace the ones you lost to tooth decay or injury. These are custom-made to fit snugly over your gums. There are two common types of removable dentures: complete denture and partial denture. It would be best if you had complete conventional dentures when all your natural teeth have been removed. On the other hand, partial dentures are for those who lose one or more teeth and still have remaining healthy teeth to support the denture.
The History of Dentures
In 1500 BC, the ancient Egyptians first collected human teeth to be used as replacements for their lost natural teeth, which were put together using gold wire.
In 700 BC, using the same technique, the Etruscan people of Italy used gold wire and bands to attach human and animal teeth.
It was in Japan during the 16th century where they first recorded wooden dentures, which were used until the 19th century. A priestess named Nakaoka Tei of the ancient temple in Kii province was known to have wooden dentures.
Alexis Duchateau, a British physician, created the first porcelain dentures in 1774. However, these were very costly and not generally affordable. He first tried dentures made from hippopotamus, but they rot quickly, so he created durable ones. It wasn’t successful, so he worked with a dentist, Nicholas Dubois De Chemant, to make something he could wear. It was aesthetically pleasing but not durable, so they improved the porcelain dentures, making it sturdy. It was patented in 1791. However, in 1820, Samuel Stockton, a goldsmith, created a better version mounted on 18-carat gold plates.
During the 18th century, dentists experimented with the use of ivory with the help of goldsmiths or ivory turners. United States President George Washington was one of the famous people during that time who had dentures. It was made of ivory from hippos and elephants, human teeth, brass, and gold.
The soldiers who died at Waterloo were young and healthy; hence their teeth were perfect for making dentures. The so-called Waterloo teeth became famous in Britain. The use of human teeth went on until the late 1860s.
In the 1800s, Ash & Sons, owned by Claudius Ash, was the leading producer of dentures with vulcanite and hard rubber. Vulcanite was cheap, and it was affordable to the majority of the population.
There was advancement and development with new denture materials used. In 1868, Hyatt invented celluloid and it was used in manufacturing dentures in 1890. However, it had an awful odour since it used camphor as the plasticizer. Furthermore, it paved the way for the use of plastic in making dentures.
Bakelite was used between 1924 and 1939. Later on, they improved the resins since then; we’ve been using polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA or acrylic resin) until today. The material is translucent, inexpensive, and could be easily repaired.
Dental advancements have come a long way, and false teeth and dentures are more comfortable than ever before. Modern dentures replacements are easier on the gums than their predecessors because they are made with durable materials. Additionally, these innovative designs come in various treatment options, so you will always have a choice for what best suits your needs.
Full dentures – A conventional denture may be the best option for you if all your real teeth have been damaged beyond repair.
Partial dentures – These are for patients who have one or more missing teeth. It is an alternative to dental bridges.
Immediate dentures – As soon as your teeth are removed, the temporary denture is inserted. The measurements and impression of your jaw are taken during the visit beforehand because they can’t make one post-surgery. With this, you will never be without any teeth even during your healing time; however, the downside is that they need to be relined for a few months since, over time, the bone supporting them heals and changes shape, causing them to become loose in their sockets.
Implant-supported dentures – These dental appliances are a combination of implants and dentures. It’s perfect for patients who require added retention due to bone loss. The metal post provides firm support for the teeth when placed in the mouth.
Snap-in dentures – Snap-on dentures are also called removable implant-supported overdenture. They are secured in position by dental implants that are placed into your jawbone. Usually, two to four implants are screwed per side; However, some variations depending on the patient’s mouth’s size and health status.
How to Care for Dentures
If you have dentures, chances are they fit pretty well in your mouth, and you can eat a wide variety of foods. But over time, your mouth has changed, as have the types of food you chew or bite into. Remember to eat only soft foods during the first few days after fitting. These factors will affect your denture if it is not adjusted regularly by an oral health professional.
Take note that you must observe good oral hygiene at all times. To disinfect your dentures, clean them twice a day: in the morning and at night. It is also important to floss before bedtime to prevent plaque and food particles from hardening into tartar or calculus (hardened dental plaque). However, it is best to avoid brushing too vigorously so as not to wear down the denture. It is advisable to use a soft-bristled brush, toothpaste and a non-corrosive denture cleaner. Please refrain from using whitening toothpaste as it may result in discolouration of the false teeth.
Soak your dentures in water or a liquid cleanser at night, then brush them in the morning before putting them on. Instead of using a liquid denture cleanser, you could opt to soak it in a water-vinegar solution. However, avoid using undiluted vinegar as it is very acidic and could damage the surface of the teeth due to acid erosion. Moreover, avoid using hot water because it will cause the denture to warp.
Cost and Risks Of Dentures
It can be hard to calculate the cost of artificial teeth because the price range varies from patient to patient. Your dental prosthetists are trained to assess your specific needs and match them with the right type of dentures that will work for you.
When it comes to prosthetics, one size most certainly does not fit all. With an impressively large selection of materials and configurations available, your dental professional will be able to find the perfect solution for you, whether your needs are clinical or aesthetic. Your prosthetist will take into account several variables before providing you with an exact price quote.
Here’s the average price range of dentures in Australia in 2021:
Item Number
Type Of Dentures
Average Cost **From**
711 / 712
Full Upper or Lower
$1,100
719
Full Upper or Lower Set
$2,100
721 / 722
Partial Acrylic Denture
$700
721 / 722
Flexible Denture
$1,100
743 / 744
Denture Relines
$300
The Dentures Cost Guide provides a range of prices that is dependent on the complexity of your treatment, materials used and the number of teeth to be extracted. For a comprehensive quote please contact our clinic for an appointment or more information!
Risk of Wearing Dentures:
Inflamed gums – Ill-fitting dentures can lead to painful sores, which place you at risk of infection. It is recommended to see a dentist if your dentures don’t fit correctly to adjust accordingly and alleviate any discomfort or pain stemming from an incorrect fit.
Allergic reaction -Sometimes, dentures can cause allergies to the natural teeth and gum tissue. To combat this problem, dental patients have been getting medicines on a dentist’s prescription.
Bite problems – Dentures that do not fit properly can cause a new set of problems. If the denture does not close normally, it may push your teeth in an unnatural position, and you could end up with premature contact before anything else- like hitting part of your toothless mouthpiece. It is when there’s increased pressure on one area, making the pre-existing periodontal disease worse and putting extra stress on some muscles while chewing, causing TMJD or facial pain to occur.
Who Needs Them, And Why
If you are experiencing any of these, it’s probably time to get fitted for a denture.
Severe toothache – When a toothache is persistent and won’t go away, you may need to check it out by a dentist. This pain could be the result of decay or infection that’s made its way into your tooth. However, sometimes your natural teeth are beyond saving after they’ve decayed too much; in these cases, dental implants or dentures might become necessary for replacement.
Chewing problems – To find out if you need dentures, it’s essential to keep an eye on your teeth and mouth for possible symptoms of decay. One sign is painful chewing when eating hard or chewy food. Another symptom that might not be obvious at first glance is chronic indigestion which can lead to stomach pains because it becomes harder to chew due to the damage to your teeth and gum tissues. If either of these signs occurs, don’t wait any longer. Consult with a dentist right away before things get worse where you will need surgery instead of just a single tooth extraction and complete denture work done by the dental specialist.
Missing teeth – If you’ve had a tooth loss or several teeth removed, the need for false teeth is immediate. As time goes on without them, your remaining healthy teeth will shift more quickly and become weaker. Even if you’re missing just one tooth in particular right now, if left untreated for too long, you may find yourself having multiple dental issues down the line.
For those of you who are looking to get dentures in 2021, look no further. You will learn everything that there is to know about getting a new set of teeth and how it can change your life for the better. This blog post is designed to help answer any questions that you may have about dentures and their benefits so that you can make an informed decision before making a purchase.
Read on if this sounds like something that might interest you!
What Are Dentures
Dentures are false teeth that replace lost ones due to tooth decay, injury or other causes and can be created to fit the shape of your mouth. These appliances will restore your appearance and oral functions. Dentists create denture prosthetics by crafting them out of a combination of metal or plastic materials according to the individual patient’s needs.
Dentures may never feel the same as one’s natural teeth, and many people experience a short adjustment period before they can get used to them. However, the newer ones are more comfortable and often look very similar to natural teeth.
Dentures can be made out of several different materials, but are acrylic and porcelain.
Dentures are made from various materials, including porcelain, composite resin, acrylic resins, and acrylic. However, denturists’ two most commonly used denture materials for making custom teeth are acrylic and porcelain, as they both provide lightweight durability to teeth for maximum comfort and longevity in wearability.
The process of creating a denture can take weeks to make, and you’ll need a few appointments with your dentist or dental prosthetist. When the dentist has determined the appliance that suits you, the typical steps are as follows:
During your dental appointment, a dentist or dental technician will create an impression of your mouth. The measurements from the moulds will ensure that you get a denture that exactly fits right in place. Dentures may be fitted soon after a patient has had their natural teeth removed; however, if you have gum disease, inflammation or injury, these issues need to be resolved before fitting because they could irritate the area, which may lead to infection.
Dentists will create a trial set of dentures before it is cast. It is the exact shape of the denture in a wax form or plastic pattern. This way, you can see how they fit before ordering a permanent one. From there, the dentist will assess its colour, shape or size for any changes that need to be made before the final denture is created.
The denturist will cast a final denture.
Once fitted, the dentist will evaluate and determine if there is a need for adjustments.
Types of Dentures
Dentures are a great way to cover up missing teeth. Dentists can offer two types of dentures: complete and partial, depending on the needs of their patients. Dentists will help you decide which type would suit you based on the extent of tooth loss and the cost involved. They can also give you an estimate of the total amount it’ll take to get everything done.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures or full dentures are the perfect solution for people with damaged teeth or missing upper or lower sets of teeth. They are made to fit perfectly like natural teeth and preserve the shape and appearance of a healthy smile. Most importantly, they restore the function by replacing all the natural tooth structures; thus, it improves your ability to chew and grind food.
Dentures don’t always provide the same experiences for chewing that natural teeth do. For some people, their experience is much less than with natural teeth or implants because of insufficient anchoring in the bone, which also limits how much force can be produced when eating and speaking.
Speech problems are one of the least discussed and most under-reported side effects of false teeth. It is not uncommon for people to develop speech impediments like a lisp with complete dentures. It is often due to the thickness of material covering their palate, which can’t be thinned out. Some have adapted over time, but others never do.
Getting complete dentures is a last resort for patients who have lost their teeth to age or severe tooth decay. While these false teeth don’t prevent bone shrinkage, they can contribute to it if the fit isn’t right. The only way you’ll be able to keep your jawbone from shrinking after tooth loss is with dental implants, which will preserve and maintain healthy bones in this area without causing any harm.
Types of complete denture:
Conventional – Dentures are a great way to restore someone’s ability to eat, laugh and smile. After teeth have been removed in the process of tooth extraction, dentists create conventional dentures that can be placed on one’s gum ridge after eight to twelve weeks or so, depending on how well they heal with time. The occasional need for relining is not uncommon either because it helps make sure the device fits securely enough in your mouth at all times without being too loose.
Immediate Dentures – Unlike conventional dentures that take time to be made and fitted correctly on an individual’s mouth since it needs to heal from tooth removal first, immediate dentures can be put right away once all of one’s teeth are removed at the same time with no need for healing beforehand. However, it is only a temporary solution because the bones shrink over time which is especially true during any kind of postoperative period following tooth extraction; these types of dentures require more adjustments after placement than traditional kinds would initially do, so usually, only consider using them until something better becomes available.
Implant-Retained Denture (Overdenture) – Advances in modern dentistry have made it possible to create a natural-looking smile with an implant overdenture. These prosthetic teeth are supported by a metal post called abutments that attach directly to the implants. Therefore, you can enjoy eating without worrying about any discomfort or embarrassment caused by loose dentures. It provides more stability and makes chewing much more manageable than traditional dentures would allow for–you’ll never worry again if your food is too tough. These are not permanently attached, and you have to remove them every night since they require daily cleaning and the gums and tissue around each tooth root, which should be tended to regularly.
Elderly patients — A lack of teeth is most common in older adults, especially those above 65, primarily geriatric patients. It is because tooth loss relates to age, and it becomes more prevalent as one gets older. As such, it’s not surprising that the majority of older adults have no natural teeth left at all.
Younger patients — It’s a rare occurrence for younger people to become candidates for complete dentures. It happens when they have lost all their teeth due to severe tooth decay, accident, or injury.
Removable Partial Dentures
Removable partial dentures are a type of dental prosthetic that replaces one or more teeth. Unlike complete dentures, these replacements consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-coloured plastic base.
RPD’s are an excellent option for patients who need to replace their missing teeth but cannot get dental bridges. It can be removed at any time and replaced quickly. They offer the comfort of natural tooth movement, which helps with chewing ability by managing food in your mouth better.
Removable partial dentures are available in two types:
Cast partial dentures — With partial cast dentures, the dentist can create a set of teeth that are custom-made to fit the gaps in your mouth. They’re made with tissue-coloured acrylic (gums), replacement teeth, and a metal framework, which holds everything together in one piece. These are the answers for those who still have some natural teeth left in their jaw but want to replace others that may be missing or damaged beyond repair.
Acrylic partial dentures — Also known as “flippers,” these are temporary fixes for missing teeth. They come with or without clasps of wrought wire and are made of acrylic resin. They mimic the look and function of natural teeth. However, they can lead to gingival recession if used long-term since the patient’s gum supports the false teeth.
Can I Wear My Dentures All Day?
Dentures need to be worn all day and taken out at night so oral tissues can relax. However, dentists recommend wearing them even at night for the first few days after they’re fitted to identify the arsenal which needs adjustments. It is essential, especially if you have an immediate denture because the gums will swell up, making reinserting a problematic task.
Moreover, after adjustments are made, you could remove the dentures at night and put them back in the morning.
What Type of Dentures Is Best for Me?
There are several factors to consider when choosing the type of dentures that’s right for you. It would be best to consult a dental professional so he could provide answers to all your concerns about getting dentures. Understanding your options will help make sure that any decisions about whether or not to get dentures to feel like they’re tailored in such a way that makes them work well with your mouth.
Cost
Denture prices depend on the quality and aesthetics. It also depends on how many teeth are missing from a patient’s mouth that needs to be replaced with prosthetic replacements for their oral cavity for partial dentures.
How Secure and Comfortable the Fit
Implant-supported dentures are more comfortable than traditional dentures since they provide a secure fit that is not prone to slipping out. On the other hand, complete dentures with acrylic bases provide better comfort when worn. They are less likely to irritate the patient’s mouth or gums.
The Condition of the Patient’s Remaining Teeth
It is always important to remember that the number of remaining healthy teeth will generally affect which dental solution, be it implants or dentures, is best for a patient. If you have healthy teeth and are considering partial dentures, please find out if there is an option that would be better for your case. Partial dentures may not always be the best choice when a patient has plenty of remaining natural teeth because they only replace one tooth at a time, which can lead to uneven chewing or speech problems. If implants seem like more viable options instead, get all of the information before deciding on what’s right for you.
The Condition of the Patient’s Gums and Jaw Bones
A patient’s jawbones and gums can dictate what type of denture they can use. The option of dentures is limited for patients with compromised jawbones and gums. Implants can’t be used on such individuals because the integrity of these structures limits their ability to support a removable prosthesis.
Cost of Dentures
The cost of a denture can vary wildly from patient to patient. Still, your dental prosthetist can customize and create one that is perfect for you. The best way to calculate the exact costs is by assessing your specific needs and matching them with the right type of dentures.
There’s an impressively large selection available in regards to materials as well as configurations, so it should be able to meet all of your needs, whether they are clinical or aesthetic. Your prosthetist will take into account all these variables, as well as how many teeth need replacement, before providing you with an accurate price quote.
Here’s the average price range of dentures in Australia in 2021:
Item Number
Type Of Dentures
Average Cost **From**
711 / 712
Full Upper or Lower
$1,100
719
Full Upper or Lower Set
$2,100
721 / 722
Partial Acrylic Denture
$700
721 / 722
Flexible Denture
$1,100
743 / 744
Denture Relines
$300
The Dentures Cost Guide provides a range of prices that is dependent on the complexity of your treatment, materials used and the number of teeth to be extracted. For a comprehensive quote please contact our clinic for an appointment or more information!
Dentures are expensive; fortunately, there may be some financial assistance available. The first step is finding out how much you can expect by contacting your health insurance fund and getting the item numbers for your procedures (found on your treatment plan). It will let you know what rebates they offer and a more precise idea of the final price of dentures. This option might also work best for those who qualify for government support. It provides low-interest loans or even free dental care, depending on each individual’s income and medical needs.
How Long Does It Take to Get Dentures?
Dentures are typically fitted after the teeth have been pulled and provide patients with a better fit. Waiting three to six months for dentures allows time for your gums to heal from surgery, too, ensuring that you will be getting what’s best. Dentists provide temporary immediate dentures during the healing and adjust over time with the new alignments of their teeth to not put undue pressure on them as the gum heals.
When the gum tissues are completely healed, it is time to put on the dentures. It typically takes around six or eight weeks after the tooth extraction for a patient’s mouth to be ready for denture placement. However, every person is different, so some may need more than two months of healing before getting their new teeth fitted into place.
The Treatment for Dentures
There are several steps for denture treatment, and it all starts with a checkup. The dentist will look at your teeth in depth before deciding what course of action is best for you. It may also include radiographs, where they can evaluate whether or not your teeth and gums are strong enough to support any dentures. It will also be determined if there is a need to extract any tooth. Your healing time depends mainly upon just how many teeth were removed, but expect anywhere between two to six weeks for complete recovery to take place.
The process of getting removable dentures will always require multiple dental visits for the best possible denture fitting. The dentist will take impressions which are sent to a dental laboratory so that they can custom-make dentures for you, tailored specifically to your requirements and fit in your mouth perfectly. Your new set of prostheses may need some adjustments; both immediate and conventional dentures involve subsequent visits before getting them just right.
Since you need to wait around two to three weeks for your custom-made conventional denture, your dentist will provide you with an immediate denture or temporary denture to use while your gums are healing. These can be made and worn on the same day as your tooth removal. An immediate denture is a temporary fix, so it needs frequent adjustments compared to your traditional removable dentures.
Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Dentures?
Insurance companies cover some or all of these costs, making it more affordable for many people who need them but can’t afford them otherwise. The best way to find out how much coverage is available is by contacting your provider directly and asking about their plan policies on this matter.
Does Medicare Cover the Cost of Dentures?
There are many misunderstandings about Medicare coverage. Anyone eligible to enrol in the program must make sure they understand their benefits cover. For example, dentures and other dental devices like partial plates are not covered by Medicare. Still, they may be offered under a private insurance company’s plan.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
Dentures generally last for five to 7 years. Over time, your jaw bone slowly shrinks, and this causes the dentures to become loose; however, this can be controlled by visiting your local dentist regularly for adjustments that will help your teeth fit more securely. Ill-fitting dental appliances cause faster shrinking of bones. For removable dentures to last longer, a dentist will sometimes use a denture liner on the insides of the denture to refit it to the oral tissues.
Dental lab technicians can repair minor fractures in teeth or the acrylic base of dentures within one to two days, but repairing a denture accurately is difficult. Suppose you notice any problems with your dental work. In that case, it’s essential to contact a general dentist as soon as possible and discuss how they’ll be able to fix whatever might have gone wrong. Moreover, denture repair kits are sold at drugstores or online retailers, allowing one-time fixes on small cracks or loose teeth as long as they’re caught early enough before anything worsens.
Pros and Cons of Getting Dentures
Pros:
Increase self-confidence – They can help you get the smile of your dreams. They eliminate gaps and missing teeth, helping improve one’s facial appearance and self-confidence while also eliminating social awkwardness caused by these dental imperfections.
Support your facial muscles – Without teeth, your face will sag due to a lack of support in the cheeks or jawline created by your natural teeth. Dentures can keep your face looking youthful, as they replace the support once provided by natural teeth.
Can improve your speech – A lack of teeth can lead to a speech impediment. Dentures are the perfect solution, making it easier for people with tooth loss to pronounce words and speak more clearly without pain or discomfort.
Modern dentures are functional and more comfortable – Modern dentures are natural-looking and fit so much better than they used to. A perfect set of teeth is a great way to increase confidence. Still, it can be hard to find suitable materials for your mouth to provide this result without feeling uncomfortable or unnatural. Modern technology has made strides in creating comfortable prosthetics with new plastic material options, which increases comfort while maintaining an aesthetic look that feels more like natural teeth.
Most dental insurance plans cover it – Insurance companies offer some coverage for this dental treatment, making it affordable to many people who can’t afford them. The best way to find out what your plan covers is by contacting the provider and asking about their policies on this matter.
Cons:
Adjustment period – Dentures are not always easy on one’s mouth. Once the denture fitting is complete, it takes some time to get used. In this period of adjustment, there’s a lot more difficulty with eating and speaking. Still, one gets used to these changes with their mouth over time which isn’t very long.
Longevity – It’s a common misconception that dentures are permanent fixtures. They’re not, and they often need to be replaced as your mouth changes shape over time. Sometimes this can be an expensive process, but at least there are ways around the inconvenience by only purchasing what you need instead of more costly treatments.
Minimize your ability to taste food – Dentures can alter your taste buds and make it harder to enjoy food. This change is usually slight and hardly encountered in most cases. Still, for some people, it has a more profound impact on their day-to-day eating habits.
Allergic reaction – Sometimes, dentures can cause allergies and irritation to the natural gums and teeth, causing severe infection. To combat this problem, dental patients can get antibiotics on a dentist’s prescription.
Alternatives to Dentures
There are three ways to replace missing teeth: with removable dentures, dental implants, or bridges. Your dentist will help you decide which option is best for your needs.
If you are looking for a more permanent solution to your tooth loss, consider implants. They provide the same function as natural teeth by stimulating your jawbone and preventing bone from deteriorating. It is a reliable and popular alternative with a success rate of 95%. It may be costly, but it is a long-term solution to tooth loss.
Missing teeth can be replaced with a dental bridge, which requires healthy teeth surrounding the gap to support it. The longevity is not as long as an implant, and it needs maintenance and continuous care.
There are some options for teeth replacement, but it is vital to keep up with excellent oral hygiene regardless of your choice.
Things You Can and Can’t Do After Getting Dentures
What to Eat After Getting Dentures:
You’ll need to be patient with your gums and wait for them to adjust before you start chewing on tough food. To make the transition easier, stick to soft foods so that it’s really easy to swallow. Here is some food you can eat during the first few days:
Applesauce
Pudding
Gelatin dessert
Broth
Hot cereals (oatmeal)
Yogurt
Mashed vegetables like potatoes
Juice
Watch out when drinking hot liquids. The heat will feel less because the denture insulates your mouth. However, after eating hot foods a few times, you will adjust accordingly as you gradually grow accustomed to a new level of heat sensitivity.
Foods to avoid:
Sticky food – sticky food will dislodge your dentures and allow food particles to get wedged beneath the dentures and irritate your gums.
Food with small pieces– One of the biggest problems with dentures is that anything your teeth can’t grind or chew easily tends to get stuck in them. Popcorn kernels, shelled nuts, and seeds are just some of the many foods you should avoid if you have dentures.
Hard Food – One of the most common causes of denture dislocation or damage is eating hard foods due to uneven pressure applied. Stay away from nuts, popcorn, apples and carrot sticks to avoid any unwanted accidents with your teeth and jaw alignment when you eat.
Meat – The act of chewing and grinding tough foods can cause sore spots to develop where the gums ad dentures meet because you are putting unnecessary stress on them. Avoid eating meat such as steak or ribs at this stage of the treatment.
Do I Need to Wear Dentures when I Sleep?
Dentures should be worn all day and taken out at night so that the tissue can relax. You are advised to wear them even during nighttime for a few days after they’re fitted to identify what adjustments need to be made. It is imperative if you have an immediate denture because swelling gums make reinserting difficult, something worth considering when making plans about how often your teeth will get cleaned or whether other dental services could work better with your new mouthpiece. After any necessary adjustments are made, it’s possible to remove them when you sleep at night and put them back on again in the morning.
Should I Use a Denture Adhesive?
Denture adhesive is used to help your fake teeth stay stable and in place instead of depending on the metal clasps or suction. It is sometimes called denture cream, and you should only apply the paste or glue sparingly on the clean surface of your denture. It is generally not an alternative for dental checkups when your denture becomes ill-fitting. When this happens, you must visit your dentist to have the dentures adjusted.
Are Denture Adhesives Safe?
There are many benefits of using dental adhesives. Dentures can be held in place and prevent teeth from shifting. If you use it as directed and only apply when the denture is well-fitting, there should be no side effects. However, if you use too much oral adhesive or with an ill-fitting denture, it can have detrimental consequences on your soft tissues, like inflammation of any surrounding tissue causing damage on both hard and soft parts of your mouth, which may lead to more costly dental procedures that could potentially cause further harm than good over time.
How to Apply Denture Adhesive
When it comes to applying dental adhesive, less is more. You can always add some on top of what you’ve already applied if necessary. The key to a successful dental adhesive application is using the right amount. Too much will cause you discomfort and be less effective, while too little may not provide enough support for your tooth.
Apply the adhesive evenly on the tissue bearing part of the denture.
To prevent discomfort, it is necessary to reapply the adhesive on your dentures as needed.
Make sure to clean your dentures before applying the adhesive thoroughly.
Your denture must fit well for the adhesive to work. A bad one can create all sorts of trouble with the adhesive and keep it from working effectively.
What Are the Types of Denture Adhesives?
Paste application – Apply the adhesive on a dry or preferably wet denture; it is essential to use a small amount to avoid any possible oozing. If you find excess glue on top of your teeth after application, try using less product next time instead. To adhere a denture to the upper jaw, apply three short strips of adhesive or small dots down the ridge area and one at the centre. To stick a lower-jaw denture in place, use three short strips or dots of adhesive in the middle of the ridge area.
Powder application – Powder adhesive is favoured over pastes because it’s easier to clean off both surfaces. To correctly apply powder adhesive, sprinkle a thin, even layer over the tissue-bearing surface of the denture. Shake off the excess before pressing the denture in place.
How to Clean Dentures
The secret to keeping your dentures clean is brushing them at night using a soft denture brush and soaking them in a liquid denture cleanser overnight. A hard-bristled brush can damage and wear down your dentures. When you wake up in the morning, be sure not to forget that it’s time for another round of cleaning. You must brush them before using them again. Alternatively, you can soak them in a vinegar-water mixture overnight to prevent the accumulation of calculus. However, avoid using undiluted or full-strength vinegar since it is too acidic and can damage the false teeth.
When not in use, you can put the dentures in water or a denture cleanser solution. However, if your dentures have metal attachments, they could tarnish when soaked in the solution. It is best to get recommendations from your dentist on how to care for your dentures properly. Moreover, avoid soaking them in hot water as they will get damaged or warped. Always handle your dentures with care to prolong their life.
Care Tips for Dentures
Rinse your dentures after meals to remove food particles. Avoid dropping them while under running water so they won’t break.
When cleaning your dentures, do not bend or damage the clasp.
Brush your teeth thoroughly after taking the denture off. Clean your tongue, cheeks, and palate using a soft-bristled brush or gauze. Moreover, don’t neglect your gums when cleaning since there might be residual denture adhesive.
It is advisable to clean your dentures daily, but it would be best to do it twice per day if you have time.
Clean your denture using a soft brush and a denture cleanser to remove food debris and plaque. If you use denture adhesive, thoroughly clean every nooks and cranny to remove the remaining glue.
Use a liquid denture cleaner solution or water when soaking your dentures overnight. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to correctly clean and soak them. Your dentist may also recommend a method for storing your dentures overnight.
In the morning, brush or rinse your dentures thoroughly before wearing them. Soaking solutions may be harmful and can cause pain or burns when swallowed.
Your dentist will provide you with a schedule for your dental checkup for your teeth to be professionally cleaned and your dentures to be examined.
A loose-fitting denture can cause irritation, discomfort, sores, and infection. Thus, you must visit your dentist immediately when you notice your dentures becoming loose.
What You Should Avoid:
Avoid using abrasive cleaners and brushes as they can damage and wear down the dentures.
Do not use whitening toothpaste in cleaning the dentures since it often contains peroxide, which can discolour the denture teeth.
Refrain from using products that contain bleach as it can discolour and weaken dentures. In addition, avoid using a chlorine solution when soaking the dentures with metal attachments because it can tarnish and deteriorate the metal.
Avoid soaking them in hot water as it could warp your dentures.
