Christian J. Luzar. D.M.S.
Maxillofacial Prosthodontist
41-750 Rancho Las Palmas Dr.
Suite E-1
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
YOUR DENTURES
• What's the difference between conventional dentures
and immediate dentures?
• What is an overdenture?
• What will dentures feel like?
• Will dentures make me look different?
• Will I be able to eat with my dentures?
• Will dentures change how I speak?
• How long should I wear my dentures?
• Should I use a denture adhesive?
• How do I take care of my dentures?
• Can I make minor adjustments or repairs to my dentures?
• Will my dentures need to be replaced?
• Must I do anything special to care to my mouth?
• How often should I schedule dental appointments?
If you're like most people who are learning about dentures, you probably
have many questions. Dentures have been around for many years. The earliest
form of denture was introduced more than 2,000 years ago. Today, dentures
are of better quality and more comfortable than ever before.
Replacing missing teeth has substantial benefits for your health and your appearance. A complete denture, also called a full denture, replaces all the natural teeth and provides support for cheeks and lips. Without this support, sagging facial muscles can make a person appear older. And by replacing missing teeth, dentures improve a personŐs ability to speak and to eat.
Here are answers to a few common questions about dentures.
What's the difference between conventional dentures and immediate
dentures?
Complete dentures are called "conventional" or "immediate" according
to when they are made and when they are inserted into the mouth. Conventional
dentures are made and inserted after the remaining teeth are removed and
the tissues have healed. Healing may take several months.
Immediate dentures are inserted immediately after the removal of the remaining teeth. To make this possible, the dentist takes measurements and makes models of the patient's jaws during a preliminary visit.
An advantage of immediate dentures is that the wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. However, bones and gums can shrink over time, especially during the period of healing in the first six months after the removal of teeth. When gums shrink, immediate dentures may require rebasing or relining to fit properly.
What is an overdenture?
An overdenture is one that fits over a small amount of remaining natural
teeth or implants that have been prepared by the dentist. The prepared
teeth provide stability and support for the denture. Your dentist can
determine if an overdenture would be suitable for you.
What will dentures feel like?
New dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed
to them. The dentures may feel loose while the muscles of your cheek and
tongue learn to keep them in place.
It is not unusual to experience minor irritation or soreness. You may find that saliva flow temporarily increases. As your mouth becomes accustomed to the dentures, these problems should diminish. One or more follow-up appointments with the dentist are generally needed after a denture is inserted. If any problem persists, particularly irritation or soreness, be sure to consult your dentist.
Will dentures make me look different?
Dentures can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth so that
little change in appearance will be noticeable. Dentures may even improve
the look of your smile and help fill out the appearance of your face and
profile.
Will I be able to eat with my dentures?
Eating will take a little practice. Start with soft foods cut into
small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth at the same time
to prevent the dentures from tipping. As you become accustomed to chewing,
add other foods until you return to your normal diet. Continue to chew
food using both sides of the mouth at the same time. Be cautious with
hot or hard foods and sharp-edged bones or shells.
Will dentures change how I speak?
Pronouncing certain words may require practice. Reading out loud and
repeating troublesome words will help. If your dentures "click" while
you're talking , speak slower.
You may find that your dentures occasionally slip when you laugh, cough or smile. Reposition the dentures by gently biting down and swallowing. If a speaking problem persists, consult your dentist.
How long should I wear my dentures?
Your dentist will provide instructions about how long dentures should
be kept in place. During the first few days, you may be advised to wear
them most of the time, including while you sleep. After the initial adjustment
period, you may be instructed to remove the dentures before going to bed.
This allows gum tissues to rest and promotes oral health. Generally, it
is not desireable that the tissues be constantly covered by denture material.
Should I use a denture adhesive?
A denture adhesive should not be used for a prolonged period. Dentures
are made to fit securely. When a denture feels loose it may require relining.
A poor-fitting denture may cause irritation and possible sores. Although
an adhesive may be used for a short time until you are able to visit your
dentist, prolonged use is not usually recommended, except for special
situations.
How do I take care of my dentures?
Dentures are very delicate and may break if dropped even a few inches.
Stand over a folded towel or a basin of water when handling dentures.
When you are not wearing them, store your dentures away from children
and pets.
Like natural teeth, dentures must be brushed daily to remove food deposits and plaque. Brushing helps prevent dentures from becoming permanently stained and helps your mouth stay healthy. It's best to use a brush designed for cleaning dentures. A toothbrush with soft bristles can also be used. Avoid using hard-bristled brushes than can damage dentures.
Your dentist can recommend a denture cleanser. Some denture wearers use hand soap or mild dishwashing liquid, which are both acceptable for cleaning dentures. Avoid using other powdered household cleansers, which may be too abrasive.
The first step in cleaning dentures is to thoroughly rinse away loose food particles. Moisten the brush and apply denture cleanser. Brush every surface, scrubbing gently to avoid damage.
Dentures may lose their shape if they are allowed to dry out. When they are not worn, dentures should be placed in a denture cleanser soaking solution or in water. Your dentist can recommend the best method. Never place dentures in hot water, which could cause them to warp.
Ultrasonic cleaners are also used to care for dentures. However, using an ultrasonic cleaner does not replace a thorough daily brushing.
Can I make minor adjustments or repairs to my dentures?
You can seriously damage your dentures and harm your health by trying
to adjust or repair your dentures. A denture that is not made to fit properly
can cause irritation and sores.
See your dentist if your dentures break, crack, chip, or if one of the teeth becomes loose. A dentist can often make the necessary adjustments or repairs on the same day. A person who lacks the proper training will not be able to reconstruct the denture. This can cause greater damage to the denture and may cause problems in your mouth. Glue sold over-the-counter often contains harmful chemicals and should not be used on dentures.
Will my dentures need to be replaced?
Over time, dentures will need to be relined, remade or rebased due
to normal wear. To make a rebased denture, the dentist uses the existing
denture teeth and makes a new denture base.
Dentures may need to be replaced because a mouth naturally changes with age. Bone and gum ridges can recede or shrink, causing jaws to align differently. Shrinking ridges can cause dentures to fit less securely. Loose dentures can cause health problems, including sores and infections. A loose denture also makes chewing more difficult and may change your facial features. It's important to replace worn or poorly-fitting dentures before they cause problems.
Must I do anything special to care to my mouth?
Even with full dentures, you still need to take good care of your
mouth. Every morning, brush your gums, tongue and palate with a soft-bristled
brush before you put in your dentures. This removes plaque and stimulates
circulation in the mouth. Selecting a balanced diet for proper nutrition
is also important for maintaining a healthy mouth.
How often should I schedule dental appointments?
Your dentist will advise you about how often to visit. Regular dental
check-ups are important. The dentist will examine your mouth to see if
your dentures continue to fit properly. The dentist also examined your
mouth for signs of oral diseases including cancer.
With regular professional care, a positive attitude and persistence, you can become one of the millions of people who wear their dentures with a smile.