Did you know that over 5 million Americans use dentures as of 2022? The benefits of dentures are often life-changing for patients.
There are different types of dentures for those missing all of their teeth or only missing some of their teeth. Do you know how to select the best dentures to transform your smile?
The following guide will explain the typical kinds you need to know about. Read on to learn exactly how these fantastic dental prosthetics work!
What Are Dentures?
They are removable prosthetics that substitute for missing teeth and the tissue that surrounds them. They are custom created by dentists to perfectly fit their patients.
Today, dentures are usually created from a hard resin instead of porcelain or plastic like in the past. Dentures typically need to be replaced after about 5 years because the material wears down faster than real teeth.
The structure that supports dentures is also made from resin and looks like a natural gum line. Sometimes a more flexible polymer gets used on the gum line for a more secure fit.
Standard dental insurance usually pays for the entire cost or a partial amount. It’s important to contact your insurance provider and determine their specific coverages before getting dentures.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures fall into two categories which are “conventional” and “immediate”. Both kinds of complete dentures get created after removing a patient’s teeth. Conventional options often require a patient’s gums to start healing first.
Conventional dentures take around 2 to 3 months for placement after the removal of teeth. Immediate dentures get created ahead of time so that they can be positioned right after teeth get removed.
Immediate dentures allow the wearer to have teeth throughout the healing process instead of waiting. It’s important to note that gums and bones shrink over time. Significant shrinking after tooth removal often occurs during healing.
So, a major drawback of immediate dentures vs conventional types is that they demand more adjustments to fit correctly. Immediate dentures are usually considered a temporary fix until conventional dentures get made.
Partial Dentures
Partial denture options or bridges commonly consist of substitute teeth affixed to a gum-like base. Sometimes the base is fastened by a metal framework to keep the denture firmly in place.
Patients use partial dentures when they have one or more teeth remaining in the top or bottom of their jaw. A fixed bridge places crowns on either side of these teeth so that the artificial teeth can attach to them.
Then, the bridge gets cemented into position to prevent movement. Partial dentures fill in the gaps made by missing teeth and also stop other teeth from moving around.
Precision partial dentures can be removed and they have attachments inside instead of clasps that connect to the adjoining crowns. They offer a looks that’s more natural than standard partial dentures.
The Process of Getting Dentures
The denture process usually takes many weeks and multiple dental appointments. First, your dentist or prosthodontist decides determines what kind of denture is right for you.
They make different impressions from your jaws and measure them against one another to find out how much space is between them.
Then, they make models, forms, and patterns to match the precise shape and placement of the dentures.
Patients test out several models before determining the correct fit. Dentists also match tooth color and shape before casting the final denture. After casting, adjustments only get made on an as-needed basis.
Benefits
Wearing dentures improves the look of a smile for people missing multiple teeth. They also preserve their speaking voice by supporting the areas near the cheeks and lips. Both of those benefits help boost self-esteem and improve day-to-day life.
They also allow patients to consume foods that demand chewing and let them keep their regular diet. This helps make sure that the wearer stays nourished properly.
Wearing dentures help fill out the faces of patients and often improves their overall appearance. If made correctly, they should resemble natural teeth enough so that they’re not noticeable.
Perhaps most importantly, they help replace teeth that cause severe pain and oral health problems. Examples include roots that have rotted or have substantial damage.
Eating With Different Types of Dentures
It takes a few weeks to start eating normally with any kind of new denture. Always start with softer foods and cut them into little pieces to make the transition easier.
Remember to slowly chew your food and use both sides of your mouth instead of favoring the left or right. Mix in more foods as you get more comfortable with your dentures until your diet gets back to normal.
In the beginning, avoid hot foods and harder foods like those with bones or shells. Also, stay away from overly sticky foods, and don’t chew gum. Try not to use toothpicks either.
Denture Alternatives
Dental implants are a denture alternative that can also support cemented bridges. While they eliminate the need for dentures, they also tend to cost a lot more for the patient.
The biggest benefit of implants compared to dentures is that they look and feel more like natural teeth. They also offer a bit more stability which appeals to some patients.
Ready for Dentures?
Now you know what dentures are, how they’re made, and the different kinds available. You also know how long the process takes and what steps dentists take to ensure a perfect fit.
So, are you ready to experience the many benefits and regain your confidence with a beautiful smile? You can contact us today to learn about our flexible scheduling and available denture options.