Dentures and Partial Dentures
Who needs a denture?
A partial denture is for people who still have some of their natural teeth. Dentures are not just for elderly patients. Patients of any age may lose some or all of their teeth and may require a denture of some sort. Because teeth are a permanent part of the body, tooth loss can have an emotional impact on some people. It is important to talk to your dentist about any fears, anxiety, or other emotions you are feeling about tooth loss.
What happens when you get a denture?
A
dentist can make a full conventional denture when all teeth have been
lost or all extraction sites have healed (up to eight weeks or longer.)
The denture process takes about one month and five appointments: the
initial diagnosis is made; an impression and a wax bite are made to
determine vertical dimensions and proper jaw position; a "try-in" is
placed to assure proper color, shape and fit; and the patient's final
denture is placed, following any minor adjustments.
New
denture wearers need time to get accustomed to their new "teeth,"
because even the best-fitting dentures will feel awkward at first.
While most patients can begin to speak normally within a few hours,
many patients report discomfort with eating for several days to a few
weeks. To get accustomed to chewing with a new denture, start with
soft, easy-to-chew foods. In addition, denture wearers often notice a
slight change in facial appearance, increased salivary flow or minor
irritation or discomfort.
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Denture adhesives may be recommended, especially for the first-time denture wearer. Adhesives may improve the retention and stability of dentures for those with minimal bone support or small ridges. Stability of the denture will help the wearer's confidence.
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Remove and brush the denture daily with a denture cleanser and a brush (one specifically designed for cleaning dentures or a soft toothbrush).
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Avoid using boiling water to sterilize the denture, because hot water can cause the denture to lose its shape.
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If you wear a partial denture, remove it before brushing your natural teeth.
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When you're not wearing the denture, soak it in denture cleanser or water.
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To avoid misplacing your denture, store it in the same place after removal.
Should a denture be worn at night?
While
you may be advised to wear your denture almost constantly during the
first two weeks – even while you sleep – under normal circumstances it
is considered best to remove it at night and soak the denture in
cleansing solution or water. Research has shown that removing the
denture for at least eight hours during either the day or night allows
the gum tissue to rest and allows normal stimulation and cleansing by
the tongue and saliva. This promotes better long-term health of the
gums.
