Things You Should Know If You Have Dentures

Replacing missing teeth is critical to improving your smile, enhancing your bite function and speech, and lowering your risk of oral infections. Dentures are a cost-effective and reliable solution to restore a full set of teeth if you have lost several or all of your natural teeth.

If you’re considering dentures or have them, you may have some questions or concerns about them. This article covers what dentures are, their types, how to clean them, and other important information about the treatment you should know!

What are dentures?

A denture is a dental prosthesis that consists of artificial teeth and gums. The denture is customized using impressions of your mouth, ensuring that they blend perfectly with your natural smile. High-quality dentures look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

Types of Dentures

There are two main categories of dentures: full and partial dentures. Complete dentures help a patient who has lost all their natural teeth on either or both jaws. Partial dentures replace one or several missing teeth. Both full and partial dentures are removable.

What are dentures made out of?

Initially, dentures contained plastic or porcelain. Modern dentures have hard resin. The artificial gums contain a softer resin or polymer material.

While strong and durable, these materials are still susceptible to fractures and damage. For instance, they can easily crack, chip, or break if you drop them or chew hard items like ice.

How much do dentures cost?

Traditional dentures cost $1,000 – $3,000. Implant-supported dentures can cost more than $15,000. The cost may vary based on the number of missing teeth, your location, insurance coverage, and other factors. Consult your dentist to determine exactly how much it will cost you to get a denture.

How long do dentures last?

While tough and durable, your dentures wear down over time, generally way quicker than your natural teeth. On average, dentures last for 10 to 15 years or longer, after which you’ll need a replacement for maximum comfort and function.

Similarly, since your jawbone and mouth change as you age, your dentures can loosen or feel uncomfortable. Therefore, you may need routine adjustments and repairs to ensure a perfect fit and excellent performance.

Why should I get dentures?

Replacing lost teeth with dentures comes with several benefits. For starters, dentures close teeth gaps, give you a complete set of bright teeth, and support your facial muscles, giving you a reason to smile again.

Similarly, a complete set of teeth improves your bite function, allowing you to eat and chew harder foods you wouldn’t eat with missing teeth. Be cautious and avoid overly hard foods like ice, which can damage your denture.

Closing teeth gaps allows you to pronounce words better and improves your speech. Lastly, dentures eliminate discomfort, keep natural teeth in position (if any), and improve oral hygiene. Visit our office fordentures near you.

What are implant-supported dentures?

If you don’t like the idea of removable dentures because you’re worried that they may dislodge out of position, or you’re looking for a more stable and permanent solution to replace missing teeth, consider implant-supported dentures.

As the name implies, these dentures are anchored by dental implants implanted in the jawbone. For this reason, they provide better stability, natural appearance, comfort, and durability than removable dentures.

How are dentures cleaned?

Excellent daily hygiene is essential to keep them at optimal performance and prevent oral problems regardless of what type of denture you have.

Even though dentures contain artificial materials, bacteria and plaque can build up on them, increasing your risk of fungal infections, gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss.

Use the following steps to clean your dentures:

• Remove the denture and run water over them to remove any debris or plaque buildup.
• Use a soft-bristled brush and mild soap or denture cleaner to clean the denture gently. Entirely avoid abrasive oral products as they can damage the denture.
• Rinse the denture thoroughly.
• Soak them overnight and brush them again in the morning.
• Always store the denture in a clean and dry container when not in use.
• Avoid hot water to prevent them from wrapping.

After removing your dentures, clean your natural teeth and gums. Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Brush your teeth again in the morning before wearing the dentures.

Have more questions about dentures?

Are you interested in dentures in Dover, NH? Contact Belknap Dental Associates for more information.