When we lose some of our teeth, it can be a distressing time. We worry about our appearance, and it can make us feel very insecure. It is quite common to lose a tooth, so you are not suffering alone. If you need a tooth extracted, be sure to contact your dentist to go through all options. One of the most common solutions is dentures. These are used to replace some, or even all of your teeth, and can be used to improve your appearance. The thought of having a few, or even all of your teeth replaced with dentures may seem incredibly daunting. However, your dentist will be on hand to calm your nerves and discuss all the pros and cons that come with dentures. Here’s some information you need to know about dentures.
You Can Have Partial Dentures
Most people think that you can only have dentures to replace all your teeth. But in fact, you can have partial dentures. This may be a good option if your remaining teeth are still in good quality. Partial dentures are ideal as the gum area is gum-colored and the denture teeth will be color matched to your remaining teeth. Therefore, a vast majority of people will not even notice that you have them. Partial dentures are also used to help individuals who struggle to eat properly and retain normal speech after losing teeth.
You Can Have Dentures Inserted Immediately
Your dentist will talk to you about immediate and conventional dentures. Immediate dentures are constructed from the first impression that is taken before teeth are removed. Immediate dentures are made with the intention of inserting the denture immediately after a tooth is extracted and are ideal for the healing period. On the other hand, conventional dentures can be a more accurate constructed denture, which is created after the tooth extraction. However, immediate dentures are temporarily used until you can get conventional ones fitted. Regardless of immediate or conventional methods, dentures are designed to fit correctly in your mouth and can last up to several years.
Dentures Can Be Removed at Night
When you first have your dentures inserted, your dentist will advise you when you can start taking them out at night. By taking the dentures out at night, it gives your gums a rest and allows saliva to move around your mouth naturally. When removing the dentures, be careful not to let them dry out. You may brush them gently with to remove food particles and debris. It’s suggested to put the denture in plain water or a denture cleaning solution when you don’t have them in your mouth.
You Still Need an Excellent Level of Oral Hygiene
A common misconception is that dentures don’t need the oral hygiene care that your normal teeth will. However, your dentures will still need cleaning at least once daily with a denture cleanser. Rinse them with water before putting them back in your mouth. It’s extremely important to retain the same routine for any of your normal teeth that are left. Don’t neglect them or you may lose them! To ensure that your oral hygiene is perfect, you should still be using mouthwash even if you have dentures fitted. This can also prevent bad breath. Lastly, by using mouthwash, you are also protecting your gums from disease.
Talk to your dentist about dentures before making a final decision as there may be something else more suitable for you.