subject: Restoring Missing Teeth With Dentures Is Not Just For The Elderly [print this page] Tooth loss may make you feel overwhelmed and confused about the options available to restore your smile as closely as possible to your natural teeth. Don't panic, replacing your teeth with dentures . With advancements in dentistry, dentures are no longer for the elderly. New dentures are designed to be more comfortable and functional than ever before. Similar in appearance to natural teeth, dentures can significantly improve your smile and facial appearance.
What to Know About Dentures
During your initial visit to evaluate the need for dentures, your dentist will examine your gums and supporting bone structure to identify the appropriate treatment plan. In some cases, oral surgery is performed to correct bony ridges that may interfere with the stability of the denture and other cases, the remaining teeth may need to be extracted before the dentures can be placed. Once your dentist has assessed your need for dentures and decided that they are right for you, he will make an impression of the gums to identify every ridge and crevice to ensure the best fit possible.
Complete dentures are made when gums are restored to a healthy condition and sufficient time has passed for healing. Complete dentures will replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaws of the mouth. Your gums will naturally shrink during the healing process of tooth loss, which typically takes from six to 12 months and during this period dentures may require adjustments to accommodate the changes in the gums and underlying bone structure.
An overdenture is a removable dental prosthesis that covers and rests on one or more remaining tooth roots while a removable partial denture replaces only some teeth and is built around existing natural teeth. Both overdenture and the removable partial denture may be connected to remaining tooth roots or remaining natural teeth with anchors made of metal or plastic.
Taking Care of Your Dentures
It is very important to practice proper dental hygiene when wearing dentures. Additionally, it is best to stand over a folded towel or a sink of water when handling your denture, just in case you accidently drop it. Brush your denture with a denture brush daily to remove food deposits and plaque, which can also keep your denture from becoming permanently stained. Avoid using a brush with hard bristles, as it can damage your dentures. When purchasing a cleanser for your dentures, keep an eye out for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance.
Upon initial wear, dentures may cause eating and speaking to be difficult. Start out by eating soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew on both sides of your mouth to keep even pressure on the denture and avoid sticky or hard foods, including gum. Your dentist can work with you to tailor a self-care plan that will ensure optimal use of your dentures.
If you are missing multiple teeth, or even all of your teeth, contact your Mesa, AZ dentist today to see if dentures are an appropriate solution to restoring your smile.
by: Gen Wright
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