Dentures are artificial teeth and gums that are removable. They are made to fit each patient’s mouth and to look like natural teeth. When all or most of a patient’s natural teeth are lost, dentures may be a good solution to aid in speaking and eating normally.

Dentures provide the obvious function of chewing, but they can also provide support to facial muscles which helps preserve the normal look of a patient’s facial features. This helps prevent sunken spots and sagging facial muscles.

Although all dentures are removable and artificial, there are many different types and Dr. Jamie Talley can speak with you about which types is best for your situation. Here are some of the most common types of dentures and how they are used.

COMPLETE DENTURES

Traditional or complete denturesare used for cases in which all the teeth are lost due to injury or decay. They are made of porcelain or acrylic and are secured by suction along with dental adhesives.

PARTIAL DENTURES

Partial denturesare for patients who have only some teeth missing. They are removable but are secured through metal clips rather than adhesives. Immediately after a patient’s teeth have been extracted, he or she can be provided with immediate, or temporary, dentures so that they can sill chew and speak clearly while waiting for a more permanent solution. Implant retained dentures, or snap-on dentures, are crowns that can be removed. They stay secure by snapping onto a surgically placed implant in jawbone.

OVERDENTURES

Overdentures are an alternative option for patients who have lost many, but not all of their teeth. This type of denture covers any remaining teeth or implants as well as areas with no teeth remaining.

Dentures are very beneficial for patients who are missing teeth because our teeth perform many functions even outside of simply chewing our food. However, regular care and maintenance of dentures is key to their proper function and avoiding embarrassing mishaps.

MAINTENANCE

Dentures should always be removed and cleaned after eating. At least once a day, brush dentures with a soft brush using an ADA approved denture cleaner. It is also important to clean your mouth after removing dentures. Use a soft toothbrush or gauze to clean your tongue, gums, and the roof of your mouth. Because of the material used, dentures need to remain moist to keep their shape and last a long time, so soaking them over night is very important. Water or a special denture soaking solution can be used for this. If you use denture cleaners and soaking solutions, be sure to rinse your dentures thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth. The chemicals in these solutions are not intended for the mouth, but for the material in your dentures. It is important to avoid abrasive cleaners and products with bleach in them.

Lastly, be sure to prioritize regular visits with Dr. Talley. This can ensure a consistent, quality fit and get the occasional professional cleaning of your dentures that you need.

Although there are many benefits to dentures that help a patient function normally, there can be a few unwanted side effects as well. Some patients experience mouth sores or blisters in the mouth or irritation while adjusting to dentures. There can also be issues with speaking clearly, chewing properly, or excess saliva production when dentures are new. These effects usually subside after the adjustment period. The ADA reminds patients that, although adhesives can be helpful, they are not a substitute for well-fitted dentures.

Jamie C. Talley, DDS works hard to care for you during this process and ensure your dentures fit you well and are comfortable. Although there can be side effects from dentures, they are usually either temporary or can be avoided by properly caring for your mouth and dentures.

https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/dentures