DENTURES
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.
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:
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.
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.
DO’S AND DON’TS WHILE DENTURES ON
DO’S
- Soak your dentures overnight in water or solution given by your dentist
- Rinse your dentures before putting them on in the morning
- Brush daily with soft bristles with tooth paste as prescribed by your dentist
- Do take care of your mouth, gums, and tongue
DON’TS
- Do not try and bite hard food with front Dentures
- Do not be abrasive while brushing
- Do not use a toothpick or pointed objects on Dentures
- Do not drop them as they are delicate and may break if you do so
- If they loosen, do not try to fix it on your own instead visit a dentist
- 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.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q.1. Why Is It Important To Remove Dentures At Night?
This is because the gums and tissue which supports your dentures need time to rest and recover while coming in contact with saliva. Therefore, it is considered as the healthiest thing to be done.
Q.2. Can One Sleep With Dentures On?
Though there isn’t any risk associated but is advised to sleep after removing them as this will then be considered as a healthy option.
Q.3. Do Dentures Hurt?
Because you are not used to having something artificial in your mouth, you might feel inconvenience at first. The patient and the dentures are kept under examination for first 24-48 hours to evaluate the areas of discomfort and to treat them accordingly.