Have you ever considered getting dentures recently? Or maybe you already have them? Regardless of your answer, we’re pretty sure you have a lot of questions about them. Hopefully, you can find answers to your denture questions below. This article is written with the help of Elizabeth Kilpatrick-Fox DMD.
Before anything else, let us know what are dentures.
The Definition of Dentures
This may not be new to you, but for the sake of those who don’t know, dentures are artificial gums and teeth that are created and attached by dentists to the part of your mouth that has lost a natural tooth. Dentures may be attached partially or fully, which means they can be used to replace all the teeth or just a few parts that are missing. Whether or not you need a full or partial denture, it will be designed and crafted to fit your mouth.
What Dentures Are Made Of
The artificial dentures in the past were made of plastic and porcelain materials. However, the modern ones are made of hard resin. While these materials look durable, they are actually more fragile than natural teeth that they will easily crack or chip when not cared for.
Why People Wear Dentures
A denture does not only enhance the appearance of a person, whose smile is affected by multiple missing teeth. It also keeps the mouth’s structure stable by providing support around the lips and cheeks. And did we also mention that a denture allows a person to eat foods easily, especially those that require chewing, making sure he gets the right nutrients he needs.
The Two Common Types of Dentures
Dentures can either be partial or full. How do they differ from each other?
Partial Dentures
A partial denture is often recommended if the surrounding natural teeth are no longer capable of providing support to structures like dental bridges. It is usually attached to the part of the gum line and is then fastened to natural teeth to prevent it from falling. Take note that it is not fastened permanently, so it can be easily removed at a person’s convenience for cleaning purposes or to make sleeping more comfortable.
Full Dentures
Also called complete dentures, full dentures are used in place of all the natural teeth. They are fitted to the bottom or top of the gum line. To keep them in place, a suction or an oral adhesive is used. Don’t worry, though. Like partial dentures, they can be removed any time you want.
How to Clean Them
No matter what type of denture you have, it is important that you clean them regularly. Even if they are just artificial, they still resemble natural teeth, which means they need to be brushed and flossed regularly because plaque, tartar, and bacteria may build up on them, posing possible threat to your gums and existing teeth.
To clean them, all you need to do is to take them out of the mouth and rinse them with clean water. That way, the food particles stuck between the gum line and the teeth are removed. After which, brush the denture using a denture brush. Be careful not to use an electric toothbrush and a regular toothpaste because they are too abrasive and may cause damage to the materials of the denture. When you are through, rinse with running water.
You can never tell who may need these dentures. Hence, it is important that you know these basic things about dentures. Now, if you think you need one, visit your nearest dentist right away.
Cynthia is freelance writer, an author, blogger and content marketing specialist. When not working, probably spending time with her family.