Everything You Need to Know before Getting Dentures
As people get older, problems with their teeth can become more prominent and require more intensive forms of treatment. One option for people with severely damaged or missing teeth is to get dentures. Dentures are false teeth that replace natural teeth and support surrounding soft tissue. Like any other major dental procedure, getting dentures is a big decision, and you must understand what this entails before committing.
This guide has everything you need to know before getting dentures and how to make the overall experience as smooth and comfortable as possible.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures, also known as false or artificial teeth, are made from either porcelain or acrylic resin material. They are designed to replace some to all teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw. People who decide to get dentures hope to improve their ability to bite, eat, and speak. Dentures can help people suffering from existing dental problems or those who have experienced tooth loss.
Types
People can choose from a variety of dentures, depending on their individual needs. The two main types of dentures are:
Full Dentures – Full dentures are used to replace all of the teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw. They are made to fit neatly in the mouth and be held in place by the gums and lip.
Partial Dentures – Partial dentures are an option for people who have lost some but not all of their teeth. They are typically held in place with clips or crowns that attach to the natural teeth.
Benefits
- Improves Speech Clarity: Missing teeth can cause difficulty speaking and enunciating certain words. Dentures help improve the clarity of your speech.
- Supplements Your Diet: Without teeth, it can be difficult to chew and eat certain foods. Dentures can help supplement your diet and make it easier to enjoy all kinds of food.
- Improves Appearance: Dentures can restore a more natural-looking and complete smile. This can boost your confidence and improve your appearance.
- Helps Prevent Facial Sagging: Missing teeth can cause the facial muscles and tissues to sag. Dentures can help to restore the facial structure and prevent sagging.
Cost
The cost of having dentures may depend on the type and material used. Generally, full dentures are more expensive than partial dentures. Additionally, the price can vary depending on whether or not you have dental insurance.
Adjustment Period
When you get dentures, it can take some time to get used to them. You may feel some discomfort during this period. Eating, speaking, and smiling may feel strange at first. Stay patient and practice with your dentures until you become comfortable.
Care and Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste or mild soap and water to brush away plaque and bacteria.
- Soaking: Your dentures should also be soaked overnight in a denture solution to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out.
- Scheduling Dental Visits: People who wear dentures should still visit their dentist for regular checkups. Seeing a dentist twice a year can help them detect any issues or problems with the dentures in addition to the teeth and gums.
Making the Most of Dentures
Although dentures can improve your quality of life, they may never feel like natural teeth. However, with some simple steps, people can make the most of their dentures:
- Practice speaking with your dentures.
- Exercise your jaw to get used to the new shape of your teeth.
- Eat softer foods that are easier to chew.
- Ensure your dentures fit properly and make adjustments when needed.
- Always use caution when cleaning dentures.
Conclusion
Dentures can be an effective way to replace missing teeth and improve oral health. Before getting dentures, it’s important to learn about the types available, how to care for them, and what to expect during the denture adjustment period. With the proper knowledge, you can make the most of your dentures and enjoy a healthy, confident smile.
Weymouth Dental Arts provides the best dentures to help patients get the best results. Our dentists in Weymouth, MA, can help you select the right type of dentures for your needs and provide personalized instruction on caring for them. Contact us to book an appointment!