What are Dentures and Partial Dentures?

Dentures and partial dentures are excellent dental solutions for people who have lost some or all of their teeth. Due to age, disease, or injury, missing teeth can significantly affect your quality of life, making it difficult to eat and speak properly and affecting your confidence in your smile. 

Dentures are a type of removable dental device that help replace missing teeth and restore the appearance of your smile. Partial dentures are dental appliances used to replace one or several missing teeth, while complete dentures offer a way to replace all missing teeth. These appliances fit securely in your mouth, making eating, speaking, and smiling easier. 

Modern dentures use high-quality materials, such as acrylic resin and porcelain, which make them durable and long-lasting. They are also custom-made to fit the unique contours of your mouth, ensuring a comfortable and snug fit. 

Regardless of whether you have lost a few teeth or all of them, dentures and partial dentures can assist you in regaining your confidence and restoring your smile. Proper care and maintenance can last many years, providing a functional and attractive solution for missing teeth. 

"Over 36 million Americans do not have any teeth, and 90% wear dentures. Studies show that the success rate of dentures is quite high, with up to 90% of denture wearers reporting satisfaction with their appliance". 

Dentures and Their Benefits 

• One of the main benefits of dentures is that they can help restore a person's ability to chew and speak properly. Missing teeth can make it difficult to eat certain foods or speak clearly, impacting a person's quality of life. Dentures can also improve the appearance of the mouth, as they fill in gaps and prevent facial muscles from sagging. 
• Another advantage of dentures is their affordability compared to other tooth replacement options like dental implants. Dentures can be a suitable choice for those who cannot afford costly treatments or are not eligible for dental implants due to various reasons such as insufficient jawbone density or gum disease. 
• Dentures are also easy to clean and maintain. They can be removed for cleaning and soaking, which helps prevent plaque and bacteria buildup. Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend dentures' lifespan and ensure they function correctly. 

Dentures are a viable option for those needing to replace missing teeth. They can help restore the function and appearance of the mouth, and they are relatively affordable and easy to maintain.

Complete and Partial Dentures: What's the Difference? 

Complete dentures allow for the restoration of the full set of teeth and provide support for the cheeks and lips, which can help to improve speech and facial appearance. Partial dentures are composed of replacement teeth fixed onto a plastic base resembling the gums' color. The dentures use metal clasps that hook onto the remaining natural teeth.  

Partial dentures are removable and provide a more natural appearance than complete dentures, as they blend in with the remaining natural teeth. The dentist will recommend partial dentures only when a few teeth are missing in the upper or lower jaw. 

Your dentist can help you determine which type of denture is best for you based on the number of missing teeth, the condition of your remaining teeth, and other factors such as budget and personal preferences.  

Are They Worth It? 

Missing teeth can lead to dental problems like bone loss, shifting of teeth, gum disease, and even affect how you speak and chew. Dentures can prevent these problems and help you maintain good oral health. Dentures function like natural teeth, making it easier to eat and speak.  

However, it's essential to remember that dentures require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure longevity and effectiveness. It includes daily cleaning of dentures and regular visits to your dentist for adjustments and checkups. 

In addition to maintaining good oral hygiene, it's crucial to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to support the longevity of your dentures. Eating a well-balanced diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking can all contribute to the overall health of your mouth and dentures. 

Dentures can significantly improve your dental health and quality of life by restoring your smile, supporting your facial muscles, and preventing further dental problems. 

Who is an Ideal Candidate for Dentures? 

Dentures work well for individuals who have lost their natural teeth due to injury, decay, or other health conditions. The ideal candidate for dentures is someone who has lost most or all of their teeth and is looking for a non-invasive solution to restore their smile and ability to eat and speak comfortably. 

There is no age limit for denture candidates, as tooth loss can occur at any stage of life. However, it's important to note that dentures require a certain amount of upkeep and care, so candidates should be willing and able to commit to maintaining good oral hygiene habits and regular dental checkups. 

It's also essential for candidates to have realistic expectations about the appearance and functionality of dentures. While they can significantly improve both areas, they may need help fully replicating the look and feel of natural teeth

What Happens During a Dentures Procedure? 

A denture procedure involves several steps and appointments with a dental professional. 

• The first step is to consult a dentist to decide your best option. When getting dentures, the dentist or prosthodontist will typically take several impressions of your mouth to create a custom-fit mold for your dentures.  
• During the next appointment, the dentist will prepare your mouth for the dentures by removing any remaining teeth and providing necessary dental treatments. Once your mouth is ready, the dentist will create a trial period to test the fit and feel. 
• After the trial period, the dentist will make necessary adjustments to ensure the dentures fit comfortably and securely in your mouth. Once you are satisfied with the fit and appearance, the dentist will create the final dentures. 

It is important to note that the denture procedure may take several appointments to complete and will require some adjustments as you get used to wearing them. Your dental professional will work closely with you to ensure you are satisfied with the fit and function of your dentures. 

How Long Do Dentures Last? 

Dentures typically last around 5-7 years, although the exact lifespan can vary depending on various factors. Factors such as the patient's oral hygiene habits, the type of dentures, and the amount of wear and tear they experience can all affect their longevity. 

Caring for your dentures properly is crucial to help extend their lifespan. It includes daily cleaning, soaking in a denture solution, and avoiding habits such as grinding or clenching the teeth that can put undue stress on the dentures. 

Is it Okay to Sleep with Your Dentures? 

Wearing dentures 24/7 can increase the risk of developing fungal infections or inflammation in the mouth. It is ideal for removing your dentures before sleeping to give your mouth and gums a rest. Additionally, removing your dentures at night can prevent excessive pressure on the gums and bone, leading to sore spots and bone loss over time. However, there may be certain circumstances where a dentist may advise keeping dentures while sleeping. 

How to Care for Your Dentures? 

1. Clean your dentures daily: Make sure to clean your dentures every day using a soft-bristled toothbrush or a denture brush and mild soap or denture cleaner. Clean all denture surfaces, including the crevices, to remove any debris.  
2. Rinse thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse your dentures thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining cleaning solution or debris. 
3. Soak dentures overnight: Place them in a clean container filled with denture solution or water overnight to prevent drying. 
4. Practice good oral hygiene: Even with dentures, it is still vital to maintain good oral hygiene. Brush your tongue, gums, and palate with a soft brush before inserting your dentures to help remove plaque and stimulate circulation. 
5. Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups are essential to ensure that your dentures fit properly and to detect any signs of gum disease or other oral health issues. 

Conclusion 

Dentures and partial dentures offer a reliable solution for people with missing teeth or who want to replace their natural teeth. They provide a range of benefits, such as improved speech, chewing ability, and overall confidence.  

With different types of dentures available, patients can choose the best fit for their needs and budget. It is essential to consult with a dental professional to determine if dentures are the right option for you and to discuss the different types and costs.