Dentures - A Brief Overview Of The Dental Tools Available

Introduction To Dentures

Dentures, also referred to as false teeth, are a type of prosthetic device which helps to replace the missing teeth of an individual. Oral cavity has soft and hard tissues surrounding it which support dentures. 

Dentures

When someone loses a set of teeth due to reasons such as a cavity, unhealthy oral hygiene, etc., you may be able to replace them with fixed dentures.

Dentures

Dentures are also called as dental implants. Dentures are a direct substitute to the natural human teeth. Similar to natural tooth roots, they also lie under the gum line and therefore are not visible in the mouth.

Dentures are incredibly stable and reliable because they are made up of titanium, a metal having the ability to fuse into the living body. Depending upon the volume and density of a bone, the number of implants can be decided.

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots and thus fall under the study of prosthetic or cosmetic dentistry. People who lose their teeth might feel uncomfortable to smile or to talk. This is where dentures come into play.

Types Of Dentures

The following are the different types of dentures:

Full Dentures

Full dentures can be immediate as the implant can be of both upper and lower sets. It is mainly used when all natural teeth are gone, and the gum tissues have begun to heal. Immediate dental implants are made in advance and can be positioned as soon as the natural teeth have been removed.

They must be appropriately fitted during the healing process. Proper maintenance and care is the key to ensure that dentures last from anywhere between five to ten years.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures can be permanent or removable. A removable dental implant is a bridge usually consists of replacement teeth which are used to hold the denture in place. Partial dentures are suggested when one or more natural teeth require replacement.

Not only does a partial denture fill in the spaces created by missing teeth, but it also prevents other teeth from shifting.

Fixed Dentures

There are three main types of fixed dentures:

1. Bridge: A bridge is used to replace missing teeth by cementing the space with the artificial tooth which is surrounded by natural teeth on all sides.

2. Dental implants: They act as a replacement for the roots of your teeth. For a natural fit, they are surgically placed into the bone. The dental implant is then packed with a prosthetic. The loading can be done immediately after surgery or within six months.

3. Crown: It is used to secure the implants that are surgically inserted into the jawbone. It is then fixed in place by using screws.

Tips For Caring And Cleaning Dentures

Taking care of your dentures will increase their life and reduce the attack of unwanted bacteria. The best method of taking care of your denture is to brush at least twice every day.

Brush first to remove any food particles stuck in the teeth. Then remove stains and freshen the dentures by soaking/dipping in a denture cleaner. Finally, brush the dentures again as you would your teeth.

Brush Your Teeth

Make sure to use a small or medium toothbrush complemented with an adequate toothpaste. It will ensure to clean all surfaces of the dentures. It should be cleaned thoroughly to remove any denture fixative.

If irremovable stains or scale build up on your teeth, you may need to have your dentures professionally cleaned by your dentist.

Be careful of scrubbing extra hard to avoid damages to your dentures. Keeping a folded towel or cushion at the ready is always a good solution before washing your dentures.

It will prevent them from breaking even if you drop them off. After use or whenever you're not wearing them, always place them in a denture cleanser soaking solution or plain water. Never use hot water, which can cause the dentures to warp. If your dentures break, see your dentist.

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How Much Will A Denture Cost?

Depending on the position, the cost of dentures may vary. The value also depends upon the quality and materials used. Charges may also depend upon the experience level of the dentist an individual consults. Some of your costs can be covered if you have private health insurance.

Dr. Chris Vinson, an expert Tulsa Dentist, says, "Even if your dentures chip, crack or become loose, don't be tempted to adjust them yourself because this can lead them to damage beyond repair."