Dentures (Call us at 408-719-8600)
Overview:
A denture is a set of removable replacement teeth that dentists recommend when you are missing several or all your teeth. The biggest advantage of dentures being you can get your life back to normal so you can eat and smile like you used to. Though they may take a short time to get used to, dentures do provide the facial structure that is often lost when teeth are missing. They can also restore your confidence in social situations. Dentures are designed to create great looking teeth that look natural in your mouth. As a result when you get dentures, your smile may be even more beautiful than the one you remember.
Types of Dentures:
Dentures typically fall into the following categories:
- Full Denture
- Partial Denture
- Upper Denture
- Lower Denture
If you still have some teeth that are in good condition, you may be a candidate for a partial denture. There are also upper and lower dentures, which are used if all of the teeth on either the top or bottom are missing. What about a full denture? A full denture is used only if your dentist cannot save any of your natural teeth. Recent advances in denture materials and fitting have made it possible to have full dentures that both fit securely and are comfortable to wear.
Would bridges or implants be a better option?
Yes, if you recently lost one or a few teeth. Bone in the mouth tends to degrade after teeth are missing for a while. If your teeth have been missing for several years you may not have the bone needed for implants and bridges. In that case, a partial denture can be an effective option for you. A 2008 Harvard University study showed that partial dentures are the best option for patients who do not meet the criteria for implants. And best of all, they are cost effective.
Getting Dentures:
If you think you may be a candidate for dentures what do you need to know? Whether you are getting a full, upper, lower or partial denture the procedure is essentially the same. In order to have your denture fit perfectly, you may need to visit your dentist more than once before you get your denture. The most important thing to remember is to focus on your dental hygiene, and possibly improve your daily routine. The best thing you can do for yourself is to take good care of the teeth you still have and keep your gums healthy. Brushing, flossing and using mouthwash multiple times daily are still best ways to keep teeth and gums healthy.
Myths about Dentures:
Many people are afraid to get a denture because they think that dentures look fake, stain easily or cause bad breath. These problems can arise if you do not take care of your dentures. If you do not properly clean and soak the denture every night, it can lead to staining and bad breath just as it does with natural teeth. Proper cleaning as directed by the dentist will lead to clean dentures, a bright smile and fresh breath. Just because they are not your real teeth does not mean that they do not need regular cleaning the same way normal teeth do!
Dental Research:
A study done in 2008 in India looked at people’s common knowledge and thoughts about getting dentures. The bottom line of the study was that it is important for a patient to have knowledge about dentures before making a decision. In other words, do not decide on getting dentures without knowing all your options and understanding how they will meet your needs. That is where we come in.
Getting Dentures at Our Office:
Call us for a consultation and the dentist can provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. The dentist will work with you to keep all the teeth you still have, if possible. We can also help you find the solution that fits your budget and ensure that you know what to expect each step of the way. Best of all, you will have beautiful, natural-looking dentures that allow you to eat and smile again without feeling self conscious.
References:
Baran I, Nalcaci R. Self-reported denture hygiene habits and oral tissue conditions of complete denture wearers. Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics. 2008; In Press.
Sarnet N, Bundy M, Kleinlener M. A systematic approach for removable partial denture design. General Dentistry. 2008;56(6):526-531.
Shigli K, Shivappa Angadi G, Hegde P, Hebbal M. Patients’ knowledge and understanding of the implications of wearing dentures. Primary Dental Care. 2008;15(3):85-9.
