All About Dentures
Did you know that the average adult between the ages of 20 and 64 has three or more decayed teeth? Today, we’re going to be talking about dentures. Why would someone need dentures? Well, there are a myriad of reasons why an adult might lose their teeth.
They might lose them from gum disease, tooth decay or injury. Replacing missing teeth may benefit you; making it easy for you to speak, eat—things that some people take for granted! It also helps you with your overall appearance. When you lose teeth, facial muscles can sag, making you look older. Dentures can help fill out the appearance of your face, and they can be made to closely resemble your teeth.
Types of dentures:
Conventional: This type of denture fully removable, and is placed in your mouth after the remaining teeth are removed and tissues have healed. Sometimes the healing process can take up to several months.
Immediate: This type of denture is also fully removable, but is placed in your mouth the same day that the remaining teeth are removed. To fit you for this denture, we will take your measurements and make models of your jaw during your first visit. You don’t have to be fully healed in order to use these dentures right away, however, you might have to have the denture relined or remade after your jaw has healed.
Over-denture: An over-denture is made to fit in-between your existing, natural teeth.
Getting used to your dentures can take some time. They may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to wearing them, and sometimes they may feel loose while the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place. Some patients find that their saliva flow temporarily increases, but as you become more used to wearing them, these issues should go away. It problems such as irritation or soreness, be sure to contact us.
Even though you wear dentures, it’s still important to take the time to practice good dental hygiene. Brush your gums, tongue and roof of your mouth every morning with a soft bristled brush before you insert your dentures. This helps to stimulate circulation in your tissues and helps remove plaque.
Here are a few other tips to keep your mouth healthy with dentures:
Rinse your dentures before brushing
Use a soft bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive cleaner and gently brush all the surfaces – be careful not to scratch them
When you aren’t wearing your dentures, be sure to put them in a safe place, covered in water to keep them from warping
When brushing, be sure to clean your mouth thoroughly, including your gums, cheeks, roof of your mouth and tongue to remove plaque
If you use adhesives, be sure to read the instructions. There are many different forms: creams, pads/wafers, powders, strips or liquids. We recommend using adhesives that have the ADA Seal of Acceptance, these products are evaluated by the ADA for safety and effectiveness.
If you are considering dentures, or have any questions about your existing dentures, please contact our office. We look forward to serving you! To schedule an appointment with us, please visit our website at www.fortmyersdentist.com or call (239) 936-0597.
