Dentures are removable appliances that restore the function and appearance of your smile. If you’re missing most or all of your teeth, then custom dentures are a great restorative option. But, how do you know if dentures are right for you? In this article, we’ll address several frequently asked questions about dentures so that you’ll have all the information you need.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for dentures?
Dentures are a good option for patients with decayed, damaged, or missing teeth. However, a dentist will fully examine a patient’s oral health to determine if their mouth is healthy enough for dentures. The dentist will also take x-rays and scans to ensure that the jaw bone is strong enough to support dentures.
Are there different types of dentures?
Each patient will have specific denture needs. Therefore, a dentist will help patients determine the best type of denture for them. The various types of dentures include:
- Traditional dentures. Patients missing an entire arch of teeth benefit most from traditional dentures. These dentures are supported by the gum tissue and underlying bone. Some patients use a dental adhesive to keep their traditional dentures in place.
- Partial dentures. Patients who are missing teeth in a random pattern benefit from partial dentures. Partial dentures rely on the gums and jaw bone for support. However, some patients use dental clasps that can hook onto abutting teeth for extra support.
- Implant-supported dentures. Dentures that are implant-supported are the most stable and reliable denture option. Instead of resting on the gums and jaw bone, these dentures attach to a dental implant. A specialist will have to surgically place the implant before a dentist can fit the patient with dentures.
Will I look different with dentures?
Dentists fabricate dentures to look like the patient’s natural teeth. Therefore, a patient’s smile shouldn’t appear noticeably different while they’re wearing their dentures. In fact, dentures restore a patient’s natural facial appearance by filling out the missing space where teeth should be.
Will it be hard to eat with dentures?
Dentures help patients re-establish their chewing function, but eating with dentures might take some practice. Patients should avoid hard and sticky foods with new dentures. Also, they should start with soft foods, and chew slowly using both sides of the mouth. Once patients feel more comfortable, they can return to a normal diet.
Will dentures affect how I speak?
Similar to eating, speaking with dentures will take some practice. Patients experiencing difficulty should practice saying problem words out loud to get accustomed to their pronunciation with dentures.
How long do dentures last?
With proper care, dentures can last almost a decade. Eventually, a dentist will need to replace and refit your dentures for optimal oral health.
How do I clean my dentures?
Patients should remove and rinse their dentures after every meal or snack. Just like natural teeth, dentures need to be brushed with a soft-bristled toothbrush every day. Dental professionals advise against using toothpaste on dentures, as it is abrasive and will create micro-scratches on the dentures. Patients can also use American Dental Association-approved denture cleaners to keep their dentures fresh and clean.
Duncan Dentist Near Me
Are you looking for a Duncan dentist who specializes in custom dentures? Look no further than Dr. Matthew L. Bridges at the Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK. Dr. Bridges and his attentive team are ready to restore your oral function and improve your quality of life today. Schedule your dentures consultation by calling (580) 255-4880 or scheduling an appointment online.
