Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
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Dentures
What is a denture?
A denture is a removable replacement for missing
teeth and adjacent tissues. It is made of acrylic resin, sometimes in
combination with various metals. Complete dentures replace all the teeth, while
a partial denture fills in the spaces created by missing teeth and prevents
other teeth from changing position. Complete dentures are either "conventional"
or "immediate." A conventional denture is placed in the mouth about a month
after all of the teeth are removed to allow for proper healing, whereas an
immediate denture is placed as soon as the teeth are removed. The drawback
behind an immediate denture is that it may require more adjustments after the
healing has taken place.
Who needs a denture?
Candidates for complete dentures have lost most or
all of their teeth. A partial denture is suitable for those who have some
natural teeth remaining. A denture improves chewing ability and speech, and
provides support for facial Muscles. It will greatly enhance the facial
appearance and smile.
George Washington's Dentures
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Learn About
Cosmetic Dentistry
.Tooth Anatomy.
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Tips on Caring for your Denture
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 or 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 speech difficulty.
How do you care for a denture?
A denture is fragile, so it is important to handle
it with care. Remove and brush the denture daily, preferably with a brush
designed specifically for cleaning dentures, using either a denture cleanser or
toothpaste. Never use harsh, abrasive cleansers, including abrasive toothpastes,
because they may scratch the surface of the denture. Don't sterilize your
denture with boiling water because it will cause it to become warped. If you
wear a partial denture be sure to remove it before brushing your natural teeth.
When not in use, soak it in a cleanser solution or in water. Get in the habit of
keeping the denture in the same safe and handy place to reduce the likelihood of
misplacement.
Should a denture be worn at night?
While you may be advised to wear your new denture
almost constantly during the first two weeks-even while you sleep-under normal
circumstances it is considered best to remove it at night. 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 gums.
Continue seeing your dentist regularly:
It is important to continue having regular dental
checkups so that a dentist can examine oral tissues for signs of disease or
cancer. As you age, your mouth will continue to change as the bone under your
denture shrinks or recedes. To maintain a proper fit over time, it may be
necessary to adjust your denture or possibly remake your denture. Never attempt
to adjust a denture yourself and do not use denture adhesives for a prolonged
period because it can contribute to bone loss. When in doubt, consult your
dentist.
If you need a reline or if your denture breaks.......
We can refit or repair your dentures in a single visit, same day service.
Click Here for some helpful hints on getting use to your denture
and for some more answers to your questions
Dr. Patrick A. Palma
620 Commercial Street Mingo Junction, Ohio 43938
Telephone : 740 - 535 - 0600
Fax : 740 - 535 - 1920
Copyright © 2005 [Dr. Patrick A. Palma]. All rights reserved.