Dentures

A denture is a removable dental appliance that replaces missing teeth. Dentures come in two forms: partial and complete.

 

A partial denture replaces only a few missing teeth. The partial denture consists of a gum-colored base and artificial teeth. This dental appliance is held in place using metal clasps that hook around neighboring teeth.

 

A complete denture, on the other hand, replaces the entire arch of teeth. Complete dentures have gum-colored bases made of plastic or resin. Artificial teeth are attached to the base. This dental appliance is held in place using suction and denture adhesive.

 

When Would You Need a Denture?

 

A patient’s diet, facial structure, tooth positioning, nerves, and muscles can all impact proper mastication. If your teeth are not in proper alignment, or if you have lost several teeth, a denture may be necessary. A denture is a removable appliance that replaces several missing teeth, thereby restoring optimum oral function, including biting and chewing. Along with functionality, dentures also restore oral aesthetics as they can be customized to mimic the appearance of the teeth perfectly.

 

Dentures vs. Implants

 

There’s a big difference between dentures and implants. Dentures are a removable option to replace missing teeth. Implants, on the other hand, are permanent solutions that are implanted into the jawbone. Dentures rest on top of the gums, whereas implants are implanted into the jawbone. But both can be combined as dentures can also be supported by dental implants, giving them excellent strength and stability. They prevent the dentures from slipping off their ideal positions in their mouth.

 

How to Care for Your Dentures?

 

Caring for your dentures means following a specific set of instructions. Your dentist will go over everything you need to know for you to take good care of your dentures. Here are some things that you should remember.

 

• Start with fresh, clean hands. When you remove your dentures, you should first wash your hands thoroughly. This helps prevent any bacteria or food particles from getting on your dentures.
• Put your dentures in warm water. Your dentures can be fragile and may crack or chip if they fall in a cold liquid. It’s best to put them in lukewarm water instead.
• Brush your dentures every day. You should brush your dentures at least once a day. This is to remove any food particles that may be stuck on your dentures. Plus, brushing your dentures daily helps remove plaque, which is a cause of bad breath.
• Use a denture brush. A denture brush is specially designed to clean dentures without causing damage. If a denture brush is not available, use a soft-bristled brush to clean your dentures. Avoid using a regular toothbrush, as it may damage your dentures.
• Don’t use regular toothpaste. You shouldn’t use regular toothpaste to clean your dentures. This can cause the adhesive to detach from the dentures. Instead, use a special denture cleaning paste.
• Schedule regular checkups. Regular checkups are important to ensure your dentures are in good shape. During your checkup, your dentist will be able to check on your dentures and make any adjustments or repairs.

 

To find out more about the dental services offered at our dental practice, call (361) 578-3544 or go online to schedule a consultation. You can also visit us at 102 Professional Park, Victoria, TX, 77904.