subject: Replace Missing Teeth And Restore Your Self-esteem With Dentures [print this page] If you have lost all of your teeth, or even a few, whether it is from periodontal disease, tooth decay or injury, complete dentures can replace your missing teeth and restore your smile. By replacing your missing teeth, your health and appearance will benefit greatly.
Today, dentures are designed to be more comfortable and functional than they once were in the past. They are similar in appearance to natural teeth, allowing your smile to improve as well as your facial appearance. Consult your dentist today to decide which kind of denture is best for you and your teeth.
Why are Teeth Lost?
Tooth loss can occur for many reasons but is often a result of periodontal (gum) disease, which is caused by a plaque buildup and bacteria that attack your gums. Gums that are infected tend to lose their sturdiness, which causes them to loosen or fall out. Older people tend to have a lot of cavities which have been filled and weaken over time. Weakened fillings can trigger tooth decay, potentially leading to tooth loss.
In order to maintain proper oral health, it is important to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day. Smoking also has a large effect on your oral hygiene because of the tar involved in the tobacco. Additionally an excess of sugary foods and drinks may cause tooth decay. Ask your dentist for advice on your diet and lifestyle to help maintain your oral hygiene.
Denture Placement
Complete dentures are created when gums are restored to a healthy condition and an appropriate amount of time has passed for healing. With complete dentures, all of your teeth are replaced in the upper and lower jaws of your mouth. Your gums will naturally shrink through the healing process of your tooth loss, which can normally take six to twelve months. During this period, immediate dentures may require adjustments to accommodate the changes in your gums and underlying bone structure.
An over-denture is a removable dental prosthesis that covers and rests on one or more remaining tooth roots. In addition there is a removable partial denture which is a dental prosthesis that replaces some teeth and is built around existing natural teeth. Both of these dentures may be connected to the remaining tooth roots or remaining natural teeth with anchors that are made of metal or plastic.
Caring for your Dentures
It is common for your dentures to feel slightly uncomfortable for a few weeks following insertion. Your dentures may require some getting used to for eating and speaking with them in. As the muscles in your mouth get used to holding the dentures in place, they will gradually become more comfortable.
Taking care of your dentures is very important. When cleaning you dentures it is vital that you take care because they are often fragile and can potentially break if dropped. Keep your dentures moist by placing them in denture cleansing solution when not wearing them. You will also need to brush your dentures as if they were your natural teeth to help remove food debris, plaque and to prevent staining. Consult your dentist today if you are missing some or all of your teeth. Dentures are not for everyone, but with proper consultation your dentist will find the best treatment plan for your smile.
