What Are Dentures?

You may be considering dentures if you’ve lost teeth due to injury, gum disease, or tooth decay. Alternatively, you may be considering dentures because you want a full, brighter smile. Whatever your reason for considering dentures may be, you should have all of the necessary information before making your decision. In this blog, we dive deep into dentures to explain what they are and if you should get them.

WHAT ARE DENTURES?

Dentures are replacements for any missing teeth. When considering whether to get dentures, you have two options:

– Full Dentures

– Partial Dentures

The difference between full and partial dentures may seem self-explanatory. However, there are differences between full and partial dentures that people may not realize.

WHAT ARE FULL DENTURES

When you think about dentures, you’re likely thinking about full dentures. Full dentures look like a complete set of white teeth with a gum-colored attachment that fits over your gums. In full dentures, the base of the upper denture covers the entire roof of your mouth. The lower denture has the shape of a horseshoe, so it doesn’t get in the way of your tongue. There are two types of full dentures:

– Conventional

– Immediate

WHAT ARE CONVENTIONAL FULL DENTURES?

When you get conventional full dentures, your dentist removes any remaining teeth and provides your tissues with time to heal. Gum tissues can take up to several months to hear. Once the tissues in your mouth heal, your dentist provides you with a full set of dentures.

WHAT ARE IMMEDIATE FULL DENTURES?

When you get immediate full dentures, you get your dentures right after the dentist removes your teeth. With this option, you won’t be toothless for several months while your gums heal. However, several months after your procedure, the dentist will reline your dentures as the bone supporting your teeth re-shapes.

WHAT ARE PARTIAL DENTURES?

Partial denture replacements are removal and involve the attachment of a metal framework to your natural teeth. Your dentist may have to put crowns in before attaching the denture to your teeth.

HOW ARE DENTURES MADE?

Different materials comprise each part of your dentures. Read on to learn what materials make up different parts of your dentures.

WHAT MATERIALS MAKE UP THE TEETH PORTION OF DENTURES?

Various types of resin or porcelain make up the teeth portion of dentures. These days, dentists prefer to use dentures made out of resin. However, dentists use porcelain to create dentures in some cases. There are some benefits to using porcelain dentures, including:

– Porcelain dentures look similar to reel teeth enamel. Dentists can also match these dentures to the natural color of teeth

– Additionally, porcelain dentures will feel identical to natural teeth, which makes it easier to get used to them.

– Porcelain dentures are much harder than resin dentures, making them more durable.

There are disadvantages to porcelain dentures, including:

– Porcelain dentures are breakable if you drop them

– They can wear down your natural teeth when you bite

WHAT IS THE MOST COMMON MATERIAL USED TO CREATE DENTURES?

These days, acrylic resin dentures are the most common type for a variety of reasons, including:

– Dentists have a new technique that makes acrylic resin dentures more durable

– The acrylic resin adheres to teeth better

– They are more cost-effective than porcelain dentures

Dentures made from acrylic resin also have disadvantages, including:

– They can wear down faster than porcelain teeth

– You must see your dentist every five to eight years to replace acrylic dentures

WHAT MATERIALS MAKE UP THE FRAME OF DENTURES?

All denture options need a framework for support when they’re worn. This framework for support is also called a plate. The structure, or plate, is often made from one or more types of metal, including:

– Acrylic resin

– Nylon polymer

– Chrome cobalt metal

HOW ARE DENTURES CREATED?

When you decide to get dentures, your dentist will first take a full impression of your gums. That impression is then utilized to create a mold. After your dentist creates the mold, it becomes the basis for a wax model. Artificial teeth then go onto the wax model. The process for creating dentures can take various amounts of time, depending on what type of dentures you choose.

HOW DO I GET DENTURES?

The first thing to do when considering getting dentures is to speak with your dentist. If you’re seeing your dentist regularly, chances are you’ve already started having this conversation. You can talk about your different options for dentures with your dentist. Once you know which dentures you’ll be getting, with your dentist’s help, you can start the process. Before beginning the process, your dentist will evaluate the condition of your natural teeth. Upon evaluation, your dentist will determine the best course of action and what type of dentures are right for you. Additionally, your dentist will figure out which teeth are healthy or unhealthy.

TEETH REMOVAL BEFORE DENTURES

If you have any unhealthy teeth to remove, your dentist will schedule a time for the removal process. Any healthy teeth will remain intact. Once your dentist removes your teeth, it may take several months for your gums to heal. Your dentist will discuss whether you wait for dentures or get immediate dentures.