Smile Perfections Dental & Cosmetic Clinic
Tooth gaps place additional strain on neighbouring teeth and can lead to trauma of the teeth and gums. Gum disease, tooth decay or bone shrinkage may be the future outcomes if missing teeth are not replaced in time. As a result of this facial volume may decline and this can lead to a drawn, sunken look and make the person look older.
A bridge to neighbouring teeth may anchor partial or temporary dentures used to replace missing teeth on the upper or lower jaw. Bridges, clasps or precision attachments are usually used to secure a partial denture towards the back of a dental arch or between teeth.
Acrylic, flexible and implant-supported dentures can replace full sets of teeth for natural dental function and appeal. Partial or full sets of dentures provide the dental structure that supports the gums and facial muscles.
The denture plate is custom-made to fit the gum tissue and is usually made from acrylic or metal materials. The attached false teeth are comprised of an acrylic resin which is strong and durable and designed to mimic natural teeth. Partial dentures can be plate-based and both full and partial dentures may be fixed to dental implants for enhanced support.
Replacing missing teeth enables patients to effectively eat and communicate once again whilst also improving smile aesthetics.
Dentures are removable dental appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are designed to restore your smile, improve your ability to chew and speak, and maintain the structure of your face.
Complete dentures replace all the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. They rely on suction and adhesives to stay in place and are usually made of acrylic resin or a combination of acrylic and metal.
Partial dentures are designed to fill in the gaps left by missing teeth. They are usually made of a plastic base with metal or acrylic teeth attached. Partial dentures are secured by clasping onto the remaining natural teeth.
Acrylic resin is the most common material used for denture bases. It is lightweight, durable, and easy to adjust. Acrylic dentures can be customised to match the colour of your gums and the shape of your mouth.
Porcelain dentures are more expensive but offer a more natural appearance. The teeth are made of porcelain, which has a translucent quality similar to natural teeth. Porcelain dentures are also more durable and resistant to staining.
Complete dentures rely on suction to stay in place. The denture base is designed to fit snugly against your gums, creating a seal that holds it in place. Denture adhesives can also be used to improve the fit and help prevent slipping or movement.
Partial dentures use clasps or attachments to anchor onto your remaining natural teeth. These clasps are designed to be as discreet as possible while providing a secure fit.
With proper care and maintenance, dentures can restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Regular dental check-ups and adjustments will ensure your dentures continue to fit comfortably and function properly.
Dentures come in various types to accommodate different dental needs and preferences. The main types of dentures available include:
These are the traditional type of dentures that replace all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They are made after the remaining teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, typically taking several months.
Also known as temporary dentures, these are placed immediately after the remaining teeth are removed. They allow you to have teeth while your gums and bone heal. Once healing is complete, they are replaced with conventional full dentures for a better fit.
These are a temporary solution for replacing one or more missing teeth. They are meant to be worn for a short period while you wait for a permanent partial denture or dental implants.
These dentures are designed to replace multiple missing teeth. They are held in place by clasps or precision attachments that connect to your remaining natural teeth.
These dentures are supported by a thin metal bar that is attached to dental implants placed in the jawbone. The denture clips onto the bar, providing a secure and stable fit.
Similar to bar-retained dentures, these dentures are held in place by a ball-and-socket mechanism attached to dental implants. They offer added stability and comfort compared to traditional dentures.
The type of denture recommended for you will depend on your specific dental needs, jawbone structure, and personal preferences. Your dentist will guide you through the options and help you choose the best solution for your individual circumstances.
The lifespan of dentures can vary depending on several factors, including the type of denture, the materials used, and the individual’s oral habits and care routine. Here are some general guidelines on how long dentures typically last:
Complete dentures, which replace all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw, typically last between 5 to 8 years. Over time, the shape of your mouth and jawbone can change, causing the dentures to become loose and ill-fitting.
Partial dentures, designed to fill in the gaps left by missing teeth, often have a slightly shorter lifespan of around 5 to 7 years. This is because they experience additional wear and tear from the natural teeth they’re anchored to.
Dentures made from acrylic resin, a common and affordable material, tend to have a shorter lifespan compared to other materials. They may need to be replaced every 5 to 7 years due to wear, staining, and potential cracks or chips.
More durable and flexible than acrylic resin, dentures made from nylon-based materials can often last up to 10 years or more with proper care and maintenance.
The lifespan of dentures can be extended with proper cleaning and storage practices. Regular brushing, soaking in denture cleaner, and storing dentures in water or a denture solution when not in use can help prevent warping, staining, and bacterial buildup.
It’s important to have your dentures checked and adjusted regularly by your dentist to ensure a proper fit and to identify any potential issues or signs of wear. Even with excellent care, most dentures will eventually need to be replaced due to normal wear and changes in your mouth over time.
Proper care and maintenance of your dentures are essential for their longevity, your oral health, and your overall comfort. Follow these steps to ensure your dentures stay clean, fresh, and in good condition:
Brush your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner or mild soap and water. This helps remove food particles, plaque, and other debris that can cause stains, odours, and bacterial growth.
Soak your dentures overnight in a denture-cleaning solution or warm water with a denture-cleaning tablet. This helps remove stubborn stains and disinfects your dentures, keeping them fresh and clean.
Be gentle when handling your dentures to avoid dropping or bending them. Always hold them over a soft surface or a sink filled with water in case they slip.
Rinse your dentures thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth to remove any residual cleaning solution, which can be harmful if ingested.
Even without natural teeth, it’s important to clean your gums, tongue, and palate every morning with a soft-bristled brush and water or an alcohol-free mouthwash. This helps remove plaque and bacteria, promoting good oral health.
Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and adjustments. They can assess the fit of your dentures, check for any oral health issues, and provide professional cleanings to keep your dentures in top condition.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure your dentures remain comfortable, functional, and looking their best for years to come. Proper denture care is essential for maintaining your oral health and quality of life.
Adjusting to new dentures can initially affect your speech and eating habits, but with time and practice, most people adapt well. Here’s what you can expect:
When you first start wearing dentures, you may experience some difficulty with speech clarity and pronunciation. This is because your tongue, lips, and cheeks need to adapt to the new appliance in your mouth.
It typically takes a few weeks to several months for your muscles to get accustomed to the dentures. During this adjustment period, you may experience minor speech issues, such as lisping, mumbling, or slurring certain words.
Chewing with new dentures can be challenging at first. You may find it difficult to bite into certain foods, especially those that are hard, sticky, or chewy. This is because the dentures may not have the same stability and biting force as natural teeth.
During the initial adjustment phase, it’s recommended to stick to a softer diet and gradually introduce more challenging foods as you become more comfortable with your dentures. Cut food into smaller pieces and chew slowly and evenly on both sides of your mouth.
Practice speaking and reading aloud to help your muscles adapt to the dentures. Chew sugar-free gum or bite down on a clean washcloth to help your dentures settle in your mouth.
Using denture adhesives can help improve the fit and stability of your dentures, making it easier to speak and eat with confidence.
With time and patience, most people can overcome any initial challenges and regain their ability to speak clearly and enjoy their favorite foods. Regular denture adjustments and professional guidance from your dentist can also help ensure a comfortable and functional fit.
Adjusting to wearing dentures can take some time, and the adaptation period varies from person to person. However, with patience and practice, most individuals can become comfortable with their dentures within a few weeks to several months.
During the first few weeks of wearing new dentures, you may experience some discomfort, increased salivation, and difficulty speaking or chewing. This is normal as your mouth, muscles, and tissues adjust to the presence of the dentures.
Some minor irritation or sore spots on your gums or the inside of your cheeks are common as you get used to the dentures rubbing against these areas. Your dentist can make adjustments to improve the fit and alleviate any discomfort.
It can take several months for your tongue, lips, and cheek muscles to develop the necessary muscle memory and coordination to control your dentures effectively. During this time, you may experience occasional slippage or difficulty with speech and eating.
As your jawbone and gums gradually change shape after tooth loss, your dentures may require periodic adjustments or relining to maintain a proper fit. This process can continue for up to a year or more after getting new dentures.
Wear your dentures as much as possible, even when you’re at home. Practice reading aloud, singing, or chewing on denture adhesive pads to help your muscles become accustomed to the dentures more quickly.
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist, who can make adjustments or provide tips to help you adapt more comfortably to your new dentures.
While it may take some time and effort, most people can successfully adapt to wearing dentures within a few months. With patience and proper care, dentures can restore your smile, improve your ability to eat and speak, and enhance your overall quality of life.
Eating with dentures can be challenging at first, but with time and practice, most people can adapt and enjoy a varied diet. Here’s what you can expect when eating with dentures:
When you first start wearing dentures, you may find it difficult to chew and bite into certain foods. This is because dentures don’t have the same biting force and stability as natural teeth, making it harder to break down tougher or harder foods.
Dentures can initially affect your sense of taste and the way you perceive the texture and temperature of foods. This is due to the dentures covering parts of your palate and gums, which contain taste buds and nerve endings.
As you adjust to your new dentures, it’s recommended to start with a soft or liquid diet, gradually introducing more solid foods as you become more comfortable. Soft foods like mashed potatoes, cooked vegetables, and soups can be easier to manage initially.
Practice chewing slowly and evenly on both sides of your mouth. This helps distribute the pressure and prevents your dentures from becoming dislodged or shifting while eating.
Using denture adhesives can help improve the fit and stability of your dentures, making it easier to chew and bite down on harder foods. Follow the instructions carefully and apply the adhesive properly.
Cutting or breaking food into smaller, bite-sized pieces can make it more manageable to chew and swallow with dentures.
Drink plenty of water or other fluids while eating to help moisten your mouth and make it easier to swallow dry or sticky foods.
With time and practice, most people can adapt to eating comfortably with dentures. Regular adjustments and follow-up appointments with your dentist can also help ensure a secure and functional fit for optimal eating experiences.
Yes, dentures can often be repaired if they become cracked, chipped, or broken. However, the extent of the damage and the type of denture material will determine whether a repair is possible or if a replacement is necessary.
Minor cracks or chips in the denture base or teeth can usually be repaired by your dentist or a dental laboratory. They may use a special acrylic material to fill in the cracks or replace the chipped tooth portion.
If one or more denture teeth become loose or dislodged, they can often be replaced and securely reattached to the denture base.
If your dentures have sustained extensive cracking or fractures along the entire base, a repair may not be possible or practical. In such cases, a replacement denture may be recommended for optimal fit, function, and appearance.
Severe damage caused by impact or excessive wear over time can compromise the structural integrity of the denture material, making it difficult or impossible to repair effectively.
Older dentures or those in poor condition may not be suitable candidates for repair, as the materials can become brittle and prone to further damage. In such cases, it may be more cost-effective and practical to replace the dentures entirely.
Certain denture materials, such as flexible nylon or high-quality acrylics, may be more amenable to successful repairs compared to less durable or outdated materials.
If your dentures become damaged, it’s essential to have them evaluated by your dentist promptly. They can assess the extent of the damage and advise whether a repair or replacement is the best course of action to restore the proper fit, function, and appearance of your dentures.
Implant-supported dentures offer several advantages over traditional dentures, providing a more secure and comfortable fit, as well as improved functionality and stability. Here are some of the key benefits of choosing implant-supported dentures:
Implant-supported dentures are anchored directly into the jawbone using dental implants, which act as artificial tooth roots. This provides a secure and stable foundation, preventing the dentures from slipping or moving around in your mouth.
When you lose natural teeth, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate over time due to a lack of stimulation. Dental implants help to preserve the jawbone structure by transmitting chewing forces, preventing further bone loss.
Implant-supported dentures allow you to apply greater biting force when chewing, making it easier to eat a wider variety of foods, including tougher or crunchier items.
With a secure and stable fit, implant-supported dentures don’t shift or move around in your mouth, which can improve your ability to speak clearly and confidently.
Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures don’t require the use of messy denture adhesives, providing a more comfortable and natural-feeling experience.
The improved function, stability, and natural appearance of implant-supported dentures can boost your self-confidence and quality of life, allowing you to smile, eat, and speak without worrying about your dentures slipping or moving.
Dental implants are designed to be a long-lasting solution, with proper care and maintenance. Implant-supported dentures can last for many years, often longer than traditional dentures, making them a cost-effective option in the long run.
While implant-supported dentures may require a higher initial investment, their numerous benefits in terms of function, comfort, and confidence make them an attractive choice for many individuals seeking a secure and reliable tooth replacement option.
The lifespan of dentures can vary depending on several factors, but most dentists recommend replacing them every 5 to 8 years on average. However, the exact replacement timeline will depend on your individual circumstances and the condition of your dentures.
The type of material used to make your dentures can impact their longevity. Dentures made from high-quality acrylic resin or flexible nylon tend to last longer than those made from lower-quality materials.
Proper denture care, including regular cleaning, soaking, and handling, can help extend the lifespan of your dentures. Poor oral hygiene or improper handling can cause premature wear, staining, or damage.
Over time, your bite and the shape of your jawbone can change, causing your dentures to become loose or ill-fitting. This can lead to accelerated wear and discomfort, necessitating replacement sooner.
If your dentures exhibit signs of significant wear, cracking, or damage, it may be time to replace them. Continuing to wear worn dentures can cause discomfort, difficulty chewing, and potential oral health issues.
As your mouth changes over time, your dentures may become loose and prone to slipping or moving around. This can make it difficult to eat, speak, or maintain proper oral hygiene, indicating the need for replacement.
If your dentures have become stained, discolored, or no longer match your natural tooth color and gum tissue, you may want to consider replacement for cosmetic reasons.
During regular dental check-ups, your dentist will evaluate the condition of your dentures and assess whether they need adjustments, repairs, or replacement. Following their professional recommendations is crucial to maintaining optimal oral health and function.
While the timeline can vary, replacing your dentures when necessary ensures a comfortable fit, proper function, and a natural-looking smile. Consult with your dentist to determine the ideal replacement schedule based on your individual needs and circumstances.
