Many options exist to replace missing teeth such as dental implants, dental crowns, and dentures. Among these, full and partial dentures are the most affordable dental treatments that do not require surgery. Our teeth play such a huge role in our lives, and without them, our way of living is affected.
Learn more about dentures as an affordable option for missing teeth and the advantages of this treatment.
What are full dentures?
Full dentures or complete dentures are usually recommended for patients who are missing most of their teeth. These are usually made of a plastic base that is the same colour as the gums for a natural look. The base will completely cover the entire mouth, hence replacing all your natural teeth.
This is secured into place with an adhesive or suction. It is also removable. Other materials that are used for complete dentures are acrylic or metal.
What are partial dentures?
This type of denture replaces one or more missing teeth. This is recommended for patients who are only missing a few teeth. It is also an alternative method for providing support to natural teeth surrounding dental bridges.
Partial dentures are fitted to the specific gum line that they will be applied to. Just like the full type, these are secured with oral adhesives. Partial dentures can be made of plastic, metal, or nylon.
What is the procedure for getting dentures?
Here is what you can expect when getting dentures.
Initial Consultation
Your dentist will first examine your teeth and your overall dental health. He will check your gums and bone structure. This is to assess the best denture option for you and to prepare you for the treatment.
During the consultation, the dentist will also inform you of any tooth extractions needed. After extractions, a dental expert will be providing you with temporary false teeth while your gums heal.
Measurements
The dentist will take measurements of your teeth digitally with digital scanners like the Primescan and Trios3 intraoral scanner for a comfortable impression and accurate fit. This is to make sure that the dentures will fit you perfectly. Also, it will match your teeth’s shape, colour, and size.
After taking your measurements, the dentist will now create your dentures.
Fitting
Once your dentures have been built, your next appointment will be scheduled for fitting. Your dentist will ask you to try your dentures on and to check for any pain or discomfort while wearing them. Your denture should feel snug. Adjustments will be made if necessary.
Placement
Once your gums have recovered from any tooth extractions, it is now time for your dentist to place your dentures. Your dentist will now guide you on how you can take care of them properly.
Follow-up
In case you still experience any discomfort, it is best to see your dental health professional as soon as possible. You should also look out for bleeding gums, bad breath, tooth decay, and continuous clicking sound even after the adjustment period.
These are warning signs that your false teeth are worn or do not fit properly. To avoid this, it will also help to make sure that you are getting treatments only from licensed professionals.
In the absence of any discomfort, regular check-ups are recommended to ensure excellent oral health. As time goes by, your gums will naturally shrink and any adjustments on your dentures may be needed.
What will wearing dentures feel like?
Having your new set of dentures may feel awkward at first. Allow yourself time to get used to it. You may also notice some increase in salivary flow and minor soreness. These will reduce over time.
To help you adjust faster, start with eating food that is easier to chew. Take small bites or choose soft foods, until you feel comfortable moving on to other food types.
Next, you may notice that some letters you pronounce will sound different. It is also normal to hear clicking sounds at first. Practice talking in front of the mirror until you get comfortable.
With practice and proper care, you will be comfortable with your new dentures in no time and avoid the risk of oral infections.
How are dentures maintained?
While dentures are not permanent, they can last you for years with proper maintenance. Here is how you can maintain proper care at home.
- Be careful when handling your dentures as they can break. Do not bend them or cause them to chip.
- Use non-abrasive toothpaste as recommended by your dentist.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove plaque.
- Avoid oral care products that contain bleach.
- Rinse thoroughly especially after eating.
- When not in use, store properly in water or a mild denture cleansing solution. Your dentist will recommend what solutions you can use.
- Never place in hot water. This will warp your dentures.
- Avoid sticky food and snacks, such as gum.
- Gargle with salt water to help with mouth sores, if any.
- Always maintain proper oral hygiene.
- Make regular dentist appointments.
What are the advantages of dentures?
Our teeth are so important in our daily lives that dentures can give patients a second life. There are advantages to this treatment that they will get to enjoy.
You will look younger.
Regardless of age, a face looks saggy without teeth. For example, cheeks that look sunken and sagging around the neck.
Having false teeth supports facial muscles. You will have excellent muscle tone around your face including the neck. With a better facial structure, you will look younger and radiant.
Enjoy a better smile.
Aside from having a toned facial structure, dentures will replace any gaps in your smile, including rotten teeth that affect your appearance. Since dentures are custom-made for you, your smile will look very natural as a result.
Easy to maintain.
Dentures are removable. All you need to do is to apply a gentle amount of pressure using your fingers to dislodge them. With that, you can easily clean them or give them a quick rinse. Easy maintenance also includes keeping them moist, such as storing them in a glass of water, when not in use.
Affordable treatment for loss of teeth.
Dental crowns and implants are alternatives to dentures. A dental crown is a cap that covers a tooth. It can be used for teeth that are damaged, cracked, or decaying. These cost $1100 t0 $2000 for a single crown.
Dental implants, on the other hand, require surgery wherein the implants are inserted into the jaw bone. An implant will replace the tooth from the root level. On average, a dental implant will cost $4500 to $6500 per tooth. It can cost more than that, such as if you will need a bone graft.
As compared to dental implants and crowns, dentures are more affordable. The cost of dentures can be anywhere from $1300 to $3870. It will depend on the type of dentures you need, the materials that will be used, and whether you need it for your upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. Additionally, most dental insurance plans cover this treatment.
How do dentures differ from other alternative treatments?
Aside from dentures being cost-effective, these do not require surgery and are very easy to maintain because they are removable. These will wear down from daily use, but the process of replacement is easier.
A popular alternative to dentures is the dental implant. This requires an invasive procedure. An implant can give you a permanent complete tooth that includes the root, abutment, and crown.
In this treatment, you will only need to undergo surgery once. To be a qualified candidate for implants, you must have a strong jaw structure.
Another procedure is the dental crown which covers the whole tooth. It is a great method of restoring damaged teeth. This treatment is fast and convenient, that it is possible to get them the same day of your consultation.
Dental crowns will also wear out over time due to constant use. Eventually, you will need to have it replaced.
Book your appointment today.
At Dentist@330, we offer a complete service to help you with your denture needs. Our friendly and professional staff is ready to assist you and determine the best type of dentures for you. Contact us today.
