Information About Dentures

If you have lost multiple teeth, you may be considering dentures. Still, when some people think of dentures, they only think of negative images of false teeth in a cup. 

Here is a bit of information about dentures, to help you better understand them:

Dentures Are Custom-Fitted

A denture is not a one-size-fits-all appliance. Instead, it is custom-designed from a mold or impression of the patient's oral cavity. The impression is used as a guide for the denture's fabrication. Nevertheless, even after the denture is complete, it is adjusted to ensure that it fits comfortably in the patient's mouth.

Dentures Don't Have to Slip

Dentures don't have to slip and move about. Although traditional dentures are held in the mouth with natural suction, denture adhesive can be added to help hold the denture in position. 

There are also mechanical supports that can be installed in the mouth, to stabilize a denture. These supports usually consist of dental implants. 

Each supporting implant is placed in the bone of the jaw, where it heals into place. During the healing period, a process called osseointegration occurs. Osseointegration is the integration of the bone with the implanted device. The bone actually attaches to the implant, holding it in place as securely as the jawbone holds a natural tooth.

The underside of the denture includes a mechanism that attaches to the implants. The attachment prevents the denture from moving about or shifting, as the patient's tongue and jaws move.

Some dentures that are implant-supported can be connected and disconnected from the implants, as the patient desires. However, others are held in place by screws that only the dentist can remove. The dentures that are not removable are brushed and cared for like natural teeth.

Dentures Look Natural

The size and contours of dentures should match the natural dimensions of your mouth. As a result, the appliance should look like straight, white, natural teeth. 

To ensure that the appliance does not become stained, dentures should be rinsed with cool water after foods with dark pigments are consumed. The longer that the pigments are permitted to rest on the appliance, the greater the likelihood of significant discoloration.

To avoid warping, only cool water should be used when rinsing the appliance. Some of the denture's components are made of plastic that becomes more pliable when heated.

For more information about dentures, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area, and talk to companies like Sidney Dental Associates Inc.


Share