DENTURE
WHAT ARE DENTURES?
Dentures are removable appliances which are used as a replacement of missing teeth and tissues. They are the artificial teeth which enable normal functioning of human mouth. Dentures are of two types – Complete & Partial.
Complete dentures are advised when all the teeth are missing, and partial dentures are applied when some natural teeth are missing. They are custom made especially for a set of teeth and gum line.
Complete Dentures fit over the upper teeth and roof and on the lower teeth placed like a horseshoe. They are conventional dentures and are removed during the night for cleaning.
Partial Dentures consists of replaced missing teeth attached to artificial gum connected by a metal framework which helps to hold the denture in place. Missing teeth can change the position of other teeth hence partial denture help to overcome this problem and keep the teeth intact.
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TYPES OF DENTURES
Dentures are made of porcelain and acrylic resin.
Porcelain dentures look more natural and match easily with the remaining teeth. But porcelain, if dropped, will break easily and can wear down the remaining teeth hence, are better used as complete dentures rather than partial.
Acrylic resin dentures, on the other hand, are light in weight and easy to adjust. They fit properly and make the jaw movement smoother.
WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE INVOLVED IN PLACING DENTURES?
Step 1
The doctor will first take the impressions of your jaw to analyze how well they relate to one another and whether they have spaces in between them.
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Step 2
A wax model is then prepared to check the fitting.
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Step 3
Final Denture is made with the wax model
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Step 4
The patient is made to try the final set of dentures and if necessary adjustments will be made
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HOW TO TAKE CARE OF THE DENTURES?
Since these are artificial and removable, therefore, it becomes extremely important to handle them with care. If you want your dentures to have a longer life, the following tips should be taken into consideration:
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Keep Your Dentures Clean
Always ensure that your dentures are clean for this you need to brush your dentures with a non-abrasive brush at least once a day. Though they are artificial, yet plaque and bacteria can build up on the teeth causing damage to other teeth and gums. If possible remove your dentures after every meal and wash it with warm water but if you have complete dentures, then mere brushing would do.
Overnight Protection
Soak your dentures at night in water or in the denture solution as prescribed by your dentist. So that your dentures do not weaken avoid chlorine with it. While putting dentures on in the morning make sure you rinse them with clean water as this will help to remove the chemicals if any during the soaking process.
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Keep A Look At Your Dentures
Monitor your dentures time to time and visit your dentist if your dentures loosen, slip or you come across a change in the bite. Having ill-fitting dentures can cause infections and irritations.
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DO’S AND DON’TS WHILE DENTURES ON
DO’S
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Soak your dentures overnight in water or solution given by your dentist
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Rinse your dentures before putting them on in the morning
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Brush daily with soft bristles with tooth paste as prescribed by your dentist
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Do take care of your mouth, gums, and tongue
DON’TS
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Do not try and bite hard food with front Dentures
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Do not be abrasive while brushing
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Do not use a toothpick or pointed objects on Dentures
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Do not drop them as they are delicate and may break if you do so
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If they loosen, do not try to fix it on your own instead visit a dentist
MYTHS ABOUT DENTURES
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It’s difficult to eat with Dentures on – There are no restrictions on what kind of food to eat. Initially, you might be advised to intake certain kind of diet but with time you will be able to eat whatever you wish but precautions are necessary.
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Lifetime Solution – If not taken proper care, the dentures may not last for long. Also, over a period they may start to wear down, loosen their natural appearance and chewing ability.
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People might know if someone is wearing Dentures – Gone are the days when they were highlighted. The material used to make dentures is such that nobody could guess that you are wearing dentures. But if they are coming to notice then it is advised to visit a dentist
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Do not require proper care – Though artificial, dentures work exactly like your real teeth, therefore, it is extremely important to take care of dentures the way you take care of your teeth.
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Can be repaired by self – Never ever should a person try the same. If you feel that your dentures are no longer fitting the way they should, do not try to get them fixed on your own as this may further damage your dentures.
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No further visits to the Dentist – Your oral health does not include only your teeth but also gums, tongue, and tissues. Regular visits to the dentist will ensure everything is being taken care of. Also, he/she can examine the dentures and may advise if you need to change them.