Everything You Should Know When Getting Dentures

Dentures are artificial teeth and gums, made to fit your mouth to replace lost or removed natural teeth.

Dentures improve the appearance of a smile and keep the structure of the mouth firm. They support the cheeks and lips and make it possible to eat foods that require chewing. Dentures also help with digestion, as the ability to chew aids the stomach in breaking down food.

What are dentures made of?

Dentures have been known to be made out of porcelain or plastic in the past. However, modern dentures are usually made out of hard resins.

The materials used to make denture teeth are more fragile than natural teeth and can easily chip or crack if dropped or otherwise uncared for. For this reason, it is recommended that dentures are replaced with a new set every five years or so.

Types of dentures

The type of denture you are fitted for is dependent on the number of teeth that are to be replaced and the position of those teeth. Let us take a look at some types of dentures:

– Traditional dentures: Also called full dentures, traditional dentures are ones that replace all your natural teeth. They can be fitted for your top or bottom gum line and are held in place by suction or with the aid of an oral adhesive.

– Partial dentures: Partial dentures are used when a patient still has some natural teeth remaining. They are often used instead of other replacement methods when the surrounding natural teeth are not strong enough to support structures like dental bridges. The partial dentures are fitted to the part of the gum line that they will sit on.

– Snap-in dentures: Snap-in dentures are the most effective choice when considering firmness. They are held securely in place with the help of dental implants. Snap-in dentures are usually used when a patient doesn’t have any teeth but still enough bone to support an implant.

– Economy dentures: Economy dentures can be the most inexpensive type of denture. But because they are generic, economy dentures don’t fit securely or comfortably in the mouth. These dentures tend to look fake, and a denture adhesive is required for a more secure fit.

How to preserve and care for your dentures

Regardless of what kind of dentures you have, they need to be cleaned daily, just like regular teeth. While dentures are made up of artificial teeth, bacteria, plaque, and tartar still build upon them and can harm existing teeth and gums.

To clean, remove dentures from the mouth and place it under running water. This is done to remove food particles that may have been stuck between teeth, underneath the structure, or along the gum line. Next, you will need to brush the dentures, preferably with a soft toothbrush or a denture brush, along with the use of a denture cleaner. It is advised not to use any other cleaners, regular toothpaste, or electronic brushes as these are too harsh and can damage and wear away denture materials.

After you have cleaned your dentures, remember the remaining teeth or gums need to be cleaned as well to help maintain proper oral hygiene.

Always remove your dentures before sleeping to avoid damaging or dislodging them. Your gums also need a break to breathe and relax. The removed dentures are to be completely submerged in warm water overnight to prevent them from drying out and becoming deformed. Only use a dental soaking solution if your dentures do not have metal components.

Getting fitted for dentures in Slidell

Are you or someone you know thinking about getting dentures in Slidell? Then Fremaux Dental Care is the right place for you. We will take care of all your denture needs. With a team of highly trained dental professionals, we offer implant-retained dentures, full dentures as well as customized bridges. Let us help you eat, drink and smile with confidence.

Visit our office or give us a call today to schedule an appointment.