Understanding Dentures: Types, Benefits, and Treatment Options

Dentures are artificial appliances that are made to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues with functional and esthetic objectives. These are essential for people who have lost their teeth due to reasons like ageing, periodontitis, and accidents. Untreated, missing teeth may lead to complications like chewing, speaking, and facial structural alterations. Dentures are, therefore, beneficial as they help to close the gaps, maintain the shape of the jaws, and make everyday activities easier. They are helpful in supporting oral health.

A] What Are Dentures?

How do dentures work? Well, dentures are artificial replacements specifically designed to replace missing teeth. They sit on the gum and are secured through suction or dental adhesive. Dentures are helpful not only for allowing people to bite and speak properly but also for preventing further problems with the teeth and jaws. They help maintain the position of facial muscles and keep the remaining teeth aligned.

Dentures provide an affordable solution to tooth loss. They allow patients to maintain their lifestyle while also preventing complications like jawbone atrophy, tooth shifting, or facial sagging. Regardless of the type, dentures improve both the appearance and functionality of a patient’s smile.

B] Types of Dentures

Dentures can generally be categorised as follows:

1. Conventional Full Denture

This type is used when a patient requires a complete set of dentures because all their teeth are lost. Once the remaining teeth are pulled out, the gum may take a few weeks or months to heal, and during this period, the patient remains toothless. Dentures are inserted only after healing is complete to achieve a stable and secure fit. Their look is natural since they are designed to resemble natural teeth in appearance, and hence, they are easy to clean and maintain.

2. Immediate Full Denture

Immediate dentures are helpful for patients who don’t want to be without teeth while they heal from the surgery. These dentures are prepared in advance and are implanted into the mouth immediately after the natural teeth are removed. However, given that the gums and bones undergo certain transformations when they heal, more modifications are normally made in the following month. Immediate dentures are helpful in maintaining facial appearance during the healing process but may require relining after some time.

3. Partial Denture

Partial dentures are best recommended for patients who still have some natural, healthy teeth remaining in their mouths. These dentures are most commonly made of replacement teeth affixed to a gum-coloured plastic base. They are typically connected to a metal framework that assists in holding the denture in place. 

They can be taken off and, due to their stability, offer a satisfying result without having to remove the remaining teeth. They allow the natural teeth to be retained and also prevent them from drifting into the gaps left by missing teeth.

4. Other Types of Dentures

i) Implant-Supported Dentures: This option provides more stability as the dentures are anchored using dental implants. The implants are fitted into the jawbone, and the dentures are then attached to these implants, making them feel natural and preventing the common issue of slipping.

ii) Overdentures: These dentures rest on the remaining natural teeth or implants in the mouth. They are less painful than conventional dentures as they help in stimulating the underlying bone, hence keeping it healthy via the remaining teeth or implants.

C] How Are Dentures Made?

It takes several steps to manufacture dentures with precision to ensure patients get the best-fitting and natural-looking dentures. The process starts with taking impressions of the patient’s mouth to produce a model of the gum. From these impressions, a wax model for the patient’s trial is made to ensure that the denture to be made is of the correct shape and size. Adjustments can be made at this stage to accommodate the patient’s preferences for bite and appearance.

If there is a good fit, then the final dentures are made from the model in a dental laboratory. This process should involve a lot of coordination between the dentist and the technicians who are actually going to fabricate the new teeth. The result is a well-fitting, uniquely shaped prosthesis to fit the patient’s mouth comfortably.

D] Benefits of Dentures

Denture treatment offers numerous benefits beyond simply filling gaps where teeth are missing. These include:

1. Restoration of Functionality: Dentures help to regain the ability to chew various types of foods, which is important for maintaining a balanced diet. They also enhance speaking since people with missing teeth may have difficulties speaking fluently.

2. Improved Aesthetics: Dentures help maintain the supporting facial structures and avoid the sunken look caused by missing teeth. Dentures are made to look like natural teeth and help to improve the appearance of a person’s smile.

3. Enhanced Oral Health: Dentures can heal additional oral complications, including shifting teeth, loss of jawbone, and uneven wear of the remaining teeth. They serve as an excellent replacement for missing teeth, improving oral health over time.

E] What to Expect During a Denture Consultation

There are several important stages in a denture consultation to ensure treatment is as efficient as possible. First, the dentist will examine your mouth, teeth, gums, and jaws to determine their general state. Then, moulds of your mouth will be made to shape the dentures. The dentist will also briefly describe the various categories of dentures that are available and advise the patient on which is best suited to their needs and dental status.

This is also a good time to learn about the nature of fit and the necessary adjustments for a new set of dentures. Always consult the best dentist in Sunshine Coast or in your city since personalised treatment plans are required to achieve the desired results.

F] Adjusting to Dentures

Adjusting to new dentures can take time, typically a few weeks. During this period, you may experience mild discomfort, including soreness in the gums and difficulty with eating or speaking. Soft foods are recommended during the initial days to help ease the transition. Gradually, as your mouth adjusts, you can start incorporating harder foods into your diet.

Regular follow-up visits with the dentist are essential during this time to address any fit issues. The dentist may need to adjust the dentures to eliminate sore spots and ensure optimal comfort.  It’s also important to practise speaking and chewing with your new dentures to regain confidence with both partial and full dentures.

G] Denture Care and Maintenance

Proper care is vital for extending the lifespan of your dentures and maintaining oral health. Dentures should be cleaned daily using a soft-bristle brush and a non-abrasive cleaner to remove food particles and plaque. Avoid using regular toothpaste, which can be too abrasive. When not in use, dentures should be stored in a glass of water or denture-soaking solution to prevent them from drying out or warping.

Routine dental check-ups are recommended to ensure the fit remains proper, as gums and bones can change over time. In some cases, dentures may need to be relined, repaired, or even replaced to ensure they continue functioning optimally.

H] How Long Do Dentures Last?

With proper care, dentures can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. However, over time, the fit may change due to natural wear and alterations in the shape of the gums and jawbone. Routine care, including regular dental visits, can help prolong their lifespan, but eventually, dentures may need to be replaced to maintain their functionality and fit. Patients should remain vigilant for signs like loosening, discomfort, or difficulty in chewing, which may indicate the need for an adjustment or replacement, ensuring ongoing dental health and denture care.

FAQs

Q) How Long Before I Get Used to My Dentures?

Ans: It typically takes a few weeks to adjust to wearing dentures. Some individuals may adapt more quickly, while others might take a bit longer to feel comfortable.

Q) How Long Do Dentures Last?

Ans: Dentures generally last between 5 and 10 years, though this depends on how well they are cared for and whether any significant changes occur in the gums or jawbone.

Q) What Are the Four Types of Dentures?

Ans: The four main types are conventional full dentures, immediate full dentures, partial dentures, and implant-supported dentures.

Q) What to Expect During a Denture Consultation?

Ans: During a consultation, your dentist will conduct a thorough exam, take impressions, discuss options, and set expectations for the type of denture that best suits your needs.

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