Dentures

Medically reviewed by  Dr. Vidhi Bhanushali Kabade BDS, TCC

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Dentures are basically artificial replacements of missing teeth. There are different types of dentures. When they are used to replace a full set of teeth, it is called a complete denture and when they replace only one or a few teeth it is called a partial denture. We will see about complete dentures now.

Types of complete dentures

Dentures can be of two types: fixed or removable. A removable type of complete denture is more affordable and is most commonly used by people. Let’s first discuss removable complete dentures in detail.

Partial denture - replacing missing teeth in the lower jaw
Fixed dental bridge - permanent restoration
Implant-supported fixed denture

What is a denture made of?

Denture is usually made of acrylic resin (sometimes, a cast metal base is given) and the teeth are made of porcelain or acrylic.

Why and when do you have to wear a denture?

We all know that teeth are an integral part of our life. Our quality of speech and chewing and thus digestion is dependent on teeth. If we lose our teeth due to any reason, like gum disease, loose teeth, trauma, decay or any other reason, we have to replace those teeth. If we don’t, several problems will follow.  Your speech, pronunciation, etc. will be affected. You cannot enjoy most of your favorite food items and your digestion will be poor as you cannot chew your food properly. You will look older than your age. The teeth play an important role in the shape of your face, especially the vertical height of your face. If your teeth are lost the jaws will give an impression that your face is shorter and your cheeks are sunken. So, in order to maintain all functions and looks, you need to replace your natural teeth with dentures. Complete Dentures are a very good option if your whole set of teeth is missing.

What do new dentures feel like?

dentures before and after

Some people feel that dentures are too big for their mouths and some may feel that they are loose-fitting. Since a new object is being introduced to your mouth, your saliva production will increase. You may feel difficulty in chewing and that the denture is pricking somewhere. When in dental office, during the first insertion of the denture, you can ask your dentist to adjust points where you feel a prick.

You will get adapted to your new dentures in approximately 30 days. To be fluent in speech, try reading the newspaper or books aloud. If you love singing, you can also try singing aloud while listening to music. To adapt to dentures for eating, you have to try eating semi-solid and soft foods in the beginning and slightly improve the type of food you’re having.

For some people, their gums feel sore in some spots and thus may feel discomfort in chewing. Gargle with warm salt water and if irritation persists, visit your dentist to make some adjustments in your denture and he/she will give you medication to soothe your gums. After 30 days, you will most probably be accustomed to your new dentures and if not yet satisfied, you can visit your dentist to make any adjustments, if needed.

How to clean dentures?

Dentures can be cleaned with your common hand wash and denture brushes. Once in 1-3 months, your dentures can be cleaned with denture cleansers by leaving it in that solution to remove stains.

What is the approximate cost of dentures?

The cost of dentures will vary depending upon the type of material used, your existing oral condition, the bone left for support of your artificial teeth and several other factors, including the making process. On average, the rate of dentures is from Rs 10,000 to Rs 70,000.

Which one is better: conventional dentures or implant-supported dentures?

Both dentures and implants have their pros and cons. So it is difficult to say which one is better than the other. Removable Dentures are less expensive than implant-supported dentures, which may cost a few lakhs, depending on several factors.

Removable dentures can be used in people with less bone structure while implant treatment cannot be done in such cases (some procedures can be done to improve bone structure in some patients). If adequate bone support is present, an implant is a good option, if the patient is ready for surgery. 

Implants are fixed by doing surgery which needs healing period, while dentures usually don’t need anything like that. The procedure is simpler compared to implants. Please note that some patients may need surgery to improve supporting bone shape and structure.

Dentures can wear over time and bone loss also contributes to ill-fitting dentures in the future. So it may need to be replaced after several years.

The advantage of implant-supported denture over removable denture is that it stays in place and is strong. It does not cause bone resorption, unlike removable complete dentures which do not prevent bone loss over time.

So your dentist will examine your oral cavity, especially the supporting structures for your artificial teeth, and will formulate a good treatment plan customized for you based on your needs.

If you have any doubts regarding complete denture treatment, feel free to use the DentalDost app to scan your mouth for free and schedule an online consultation within minutes.

Highlights:

  • The teeth-whitening procedure is used to restore the natural color of your teeth and remove stains.
  • One can achieve a brighter and whiter smile by going for professional teeth whitening or by using over-the-counter products.
  • Taking proper care after the treatment helps to last longer your aesthetic smile.
  • Consult your dentist for the treatment option and have a regular check-up after the treatment.

Blogs on dentures

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Infographics on dentures

Videos on dentures

FAQs on dentures

Are dentures better than implants?

 Both have their pros and cons and it is difficult to say which one is better. It depends on several factors inside the mouth as well as patient’s budget.

Are dentures comfortable?

Yes, except the initial difficulty to adapt, they are comfortable to wear and may need adjustments or denture adhesives if it’s not fitting properly.

Can dentures be reshaped?

Yes. They can be reshaped and re-adjusted to an extent to fit well.

How does dentures affect shape of face?

A correctly constructed denture will give fullness to your face, especially in the mouth and cheek area.

Will dentures fall out?

Over time, bone loss may occur in your jaw naturally under the denture. In such cases, denture will become loose and may need re-adjustment or denture adhesive to hold it in place.

Why dentures are important?

Dentures are important to restore the normal/proper functioning of your mouth, improve digestion and for good looks too..!

Why are dentures kept in water?

Dentures are made of acrylic resin, which needs moisture to avoid shrinkage. It will not fit in your mouth if it shrinks.

Image source:

dentistrytoday.com

tulsaprecisiondental.com

smileangels.com

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