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What is a denture?
The most important thing about dentures is that dentures are replacements for missing teeth that can be taken out and put back into your mouth. Today's dentures are natural looking and comfortable, but it takes time to get used to them.
What types of dentures are there?
There are two main types of dentures: full and partial.
A full denture replaces all natural teeth in either the upper or lower jaw.
A partial denture fills in the spaces between missing teeth and rests on a metal framework that attaches to your natural teeth with metal clasps or devices called precision attachments. Sometimes crowns are placed on some of your natural teeth and serve as anchors for the denture. Partial dentures offer a removable alternative to bridges.
Your dentist will help you choose the most suitable type of denture for you.
What are dentures made of?
Dentures are custom-made in a dental lab from impressions taken of your mouth.
A flesh-colored acrylic base is used. It fits over your gum. The base of the upper denture covers the palate (the roof of your mouth), while the lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe.
The base of the denture can be made of metal, also. The teeth are normally made of acrylic and match your natural teeth, which is important in the case of partial dentures.
How dentures affect appearance, eating and speaking?
New dentures may feel uncomfortable for the first few weeks. A bulky or loose feeling is not uncommon, while the muscles in your cheeks and tongue learn to hold your dentures in place.
Though there is little change in appearance, the look of your smile and the appearance of your face might improve.
Eating requires some practice in the beginning. Chew slowly and use both sides of your mouth at the same time to prevent the denture from moving. Start with soft foods until you become used to your denture, and then you can return to your normal eating habits.
A new denture influences your pronunciation in the beginning as well.
Dentures occasionally slip when you laugh, cough or smile, reposition the denture by gently biting down and swallowing. You should learn to hold your dentures in place.
How to care for dentures?
Dentures are delicate and may break if dropped.
Never use hot water.
Brush your dentures daily to remove food deposits and plaque.
Brush your gums, tongue and palate.
See your dentist if your dentures break, chip, crack, or become loose. And remember to see your dentist annually for a checkup.
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