How Do Dentures Work?
Valparaiso Dentures are used to replace a significant number of missing teeth or can replace all of your teeth! A full denture is the prosthetic used to replace all of the teeth on one or both arches and a partial denture replaces teeth missing in one area of the mouth. Partials require healthy neighboring teeth to attach onto. Dentures are a beautiful way to reconstruct a failing smile.
How dentures work
An acrylic base sits on your gums and is tinted to match your gum tissue. Porcelain teeth are created and placed into the base. If you are getting a partial or only one arch, the teeth will be colored to match your existing teeth. If you are receiving a full denture, the teeth can be colored to meet your preferences. Any denture you get will require impressions to measure the space and are fabricated in a dental lab specifically for each individual patient.
How long will it take to get used to my new denture?
Everyone and every case is different. If your denture fits well right away and does not require much adjusting, you may get used to your denture more quickly. Any irritation should be addressed as soon as possible so your dentist can get you comfortable. Everything takes practice so the more you allow yourself the chance to speak and eat with your new denture, the quicker you will be back to normal! Do the best you can to wear your dentures all day every day, taking them out only to clean them and sleep and allow yourself a few weeks or even a month to adapt.
How long do dentures last?
Normal wear and tear is to be expected and can usually be fixed with a quick trip to the dentist for a repair. The better you care for them, the longer they will last. Of course, everything needs to be replaced eventually but here are some tips to help your dentures last as long as possible:
- Make sure you brush your gums twice a day every day, in the morning before placing your denture and at night after taking them out. This will make sure your tissue is healthy and clear of food particles and plaque so your denture always sits properly.
- Place a towel in the sink while you are cleaning them in case you drop them so they don’t chip. You can also fill the sink with tepid water, taking care never to use hot water on them to avoid distortion. It is important to brush them thoroughly every day to remove food particles and plaque buildup and prevent staining.
- If your denture is not in your mouth, make sure it is in a glass of plain, room temperature water. You can even put it in a denture soaking solution but it is important to keep your denture from drying out.
- Maintain regular check ups with your dentist as your mouth does change over the years and your denture may need adjusting. Your dentist can also reline or rebase your denture as needed.
More on Dentures : How Much Do Dentures Cost?
Keep in mind that your denture is a custom made dental prosthesis. Always visit your dentist when you think something needs to be adjusted, do not attempt adjustments on your own as this can cause them to become damaged beyond repair.