Getting dentures can be a bit scary if you do not know what to expect. Many patients are concerned about getting dentures because they do not understand why their dentist is recommending this as a viable solution to missing teeth.
If you are suffering with pain from your teeth, and you have many problems with your teeth, one of the best cost effective restorative options is dentures. However, in many cases full dentures are not necessary. There are different types of dentures that can help you get the restoration that you need and to live without the pain.
Removable partial dentures are the right answer to replace missing teeth, when there are healthy natural teeth nearby that can help to support the new dentures. A removable partial denture can replace one or more teeth while you are able to keep as many of your natural teeth as you can.
Complete dentures are what people most often think of when they hear dentures. They are a full set of denture teeth that replace every tooth in your mouth. They are often referred to as false teeth. They are removable.
Immediate dentures are used right after the tooth extraction. An immediate denture acts as a bandage to help the gums heal, and making sure the patient does not have to walk around with missing teeth.
Implant retained dentures are dentures (typically lower dentures but can also be for uppers) that are held in place by implants. This is the state of the art method for artificial teeth.
At Friendly Dentistry we offer a wide range of prosthetic options that can help you feel confident about your smile and live without mouth pain.
Why is My Dentist Recommending New Dentures?
There are many reasons for tooth loss. From cavities to clenching and grinding your teeth to gum disease to broken painful teeth, sometimes the best remedy is to replace teeth that are beyond saving with dentures.
Affordable dentures can get you out of pain quickly and help improve your quality of life. Your dentist will review your options with you and help you to make an informed decision.
If your dentist has recommended getting dentures, it does not mean you are off the hook when it comes to oral hygiene, it just means how you carry out your oral hygiene will change. For example, you will still brush your dentures, but you will have to use a soft bristled toothbrush.
If you have removable dentures you will have to take care to remove them at night to allow the gum tissue to breath. Not removing your dentures and giving your gum tissue a rest (especially at first)can cause soreness and denture stomatitis (overgrowth of yeast).
Keeping that nice looking esthetic of new dentures means keeping your dentures clean. Never use harsh abrasive cleaners, like regular toothpaste. Denture wearers should use a commercial dental cleaner made for dentures.
Dental health is still important when you have dentures. Loose dentures are a sign that you need to get back to the dentist. Your gums will shrink from the time those immediate dentures are placed and about 6 months later.
If you find you are using a larger amount of denture adhesive it may mean you need the dentist to reline them. At no point should your dentures cause you pain. Remember one of the key reasons for getting dentures is to get rid of pain. Ill fitting dentures are not something that you have to deal with. Fitting dentures are natural looking and comfortable to wear.
Wearing dentures takes on average about 3 weeks to get used to from the time of tooth removal to the time of the complete healing process. You may find that you have sores (hot spots that develop) which you dental professional can easily manage and correct.
Denture care is relatively easy with the support of the staff at Friendly Dentistry. Just because you have dentures does not mean you do not need to see your dentist. You should still see your dentist annually or more if you are experiencing problems with your dentures. If you have implant retained dentures, you may have to see your dentist more often to manage the abutment and the implants.
Make your appointment today to learn more about getting dentures and why they may be the best option for you.